MHT File Extension

What is MHT file?

MHT file extension is used to store a web page archive saved as a MHTML document file (short for MIME HTML). Such file contains HTML data, images, Flash animations, Java applets, and other elements in the form of a single file.

Creation of MHT file

MHT web page archive is generated by Internet Explorer web browser when the option to save WWW page as archive is chosen by the user. In the process of creating the MHT file all relative HTML hyperlinks are mapped to the i r sources. That way not only the HTML code, but also all multimedia data can be contained in the combined file. Absolute hyperlinks remain unchanged in the process of archive creation.

MHT file advantages

MHT archive offers the benefit of storing web page in a single file, which is especially useful if the page references other files stored on the server. Archived web page file alows users to access website offline. A single file archive also facilitates moving website content from one place to another.

Additional information

1. Contents of MHT file are encoded using MIME encoding.
2. MHT files are commonly used by internet-based culprits as a basis for malware distribution processes and therefore should be scanned for malicious code before opening them.

Programs which support MHT file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support MHT files. Files with MHT 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: 12/28/2019

How to open file with MHT extension?

Being unable to open files with MHT extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to MHTML Web Archive files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with MHT files.

Step 1. Download and install Microsoft Internet Explorer

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports MHT files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install Microsoft Internet Explorer or one to the listed programs: Google Chrome, Microsoft Word, Kingsoft Writer. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Microsoft Internet Explorer website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update Microsoft Internet Explorer to the latest version

You still cannot access MHT files although Microsoft Internet Explorer is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. This can be one of the causes why MHT files are not compatible with Microsoft Internet Explorer. The most recent version of Microsoft Internet Explorer is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open MHT files to Microsoft Internet Explorer

If you have the latest version of Microsoft Internet Explorer installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage MHT on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the MHT 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 Microsoft Internet Explorer installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open MHT files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the MHT file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with MHT extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the MHT for errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the MHT file in question. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

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

Should it happed that the MHT is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the scanner detected that the MHT file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic MHT file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with MHT extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

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

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Microsoft Internet Explorer

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

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

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with MHTML Web Archive file. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with MHT files affecting older versions of given software.

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