WMZ File Extension

What is WMZ file?

WMZ file format is used by Windows Media Player software. This file format is used to store standard or custom graphical themes/skin files that can be used to change Windows Media Player interface style. WMZ file is a ZIP-compresed archive file and can contain one or more themes/ skins.

WMZ file structure

WMZ file comprises 2 distinct components – one is related to stored graphical data and the other to scripts written in JScript. The graphical component is responsible for visual style of Windows Media Player interface elements such as buttons. Script component describes behaviour of each element upon user’s actions, for example, adding an effect as a result of mouse hover over the element.

Programs which support WMZ file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support WMZ files. Files with WMZ extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 07/22/2022

How to open file with WMZ extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening WMZ files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with WMZ files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install Windows Media Player software

Problems with opening and working with WMZ files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with WMZ files being present on your machine. To address this issue, go to the Windows Media Player developer website, download the tool, and install it. It is that easy The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading Windows Media Player installed is by going to developer’s website (Microsoft Corporation) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update Windows Media Player to the latest version

If the problems with opening WMZ files still occur even after installing Windows Media Player, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Windows Media Player is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that Windows Media Player cannot handle files with WMZ may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of Windows Media Player is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open WMZ files to Windows Media Player

If you have the latest version of Windows Media Player installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage WMZ on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the WMZ file
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Windows Media Player installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open WMZ files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected WMZ file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with WMZ extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Verify that the WMZ is not faulty

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper WMZ file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. The WMZ may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

Should it happed that the WMZ is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. WMZ file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the WMZ file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. If the WMZ file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle Windows Media Player

If the systems has insufficient resources to open WMZ files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Compressed Windows Media Player Skin files. It may be the case that the WMZ files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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