MASTER File Extension

What is MASTER file?

MASTER is a file extension commonly associated with ASP.NET Master Page files. ASP.NET Master Page specification was created by Microsoft. Files with MASTER extension may be used by programs distributed for Windows platform. Files with MASTER extension are categorized as Web Files files. The Web Files subset comprises 303 various file formats. Microsoft Visual Studio supports MASTER files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 3 other tools may also be used. On the official website of Microsoft Corporation developer not only will you find detailed information about theMicrosoft Visual Studio software, but also about MASTER and other supported file formats.

Programs which support MASTER file extension

Programs that can handle MASTER files are as follows. MASTER files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

How to open file with MASTER extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening MASTER files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with MASTER files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Download and install Microsoft Visual Studio

Problems with opening and working with MASTER files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with MASTER files being present on your machine. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Microsoft Visual Studio or different compatible program, such as Adobe Dreamweaver, Visual Web Developer, ASP.NET. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Microsoft Visual Studio website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of Microsoft Visual Studio and update if needed

If the problems with opening MASTER files still occur even after installing Microsoft Visual Studio, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft Visual Studio is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. If you have an older version of Microsoft Visual Studio installed, it may not support MASTER format. The most recent version of Microsoft Visual Studio is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate ASP.NET Master Page files with Microsoft Visual Studio

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate MASTER files with latest version of Microsoft Visual Studio you have installed 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.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the MASTER with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Microsoft Visual Studio installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open MASTER files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the MASTER file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with MASTER extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the MASTER is not faulty

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the MASTER file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Verify that the MASTER in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the MASTER file hinders attempts to open it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the MASTER file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Verify that the MASTER file’s structure is intact

Did you receive the MASTER file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with MASTER extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the ASP.NET Master Page file.

4. Check whether your system can handle Microsoft Visual Studio

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with MASTER extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with ASP.NET Master Page file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle MASTER files.

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