MQ file icon

MQ File Extension

Microsoft Windows Message Data Format

What is MQ file?

MQ is a file extension commonly associated with Microsoft Windows Message Data Format files. MQ file format is compatible with software that can be installed on Windows system platform. Files with MQ extension are categorized as System Files files. The System Files subset comprises 323 various file formats. Microsoft Windows supports MQ files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 5 other tools may also be used. Microsoft Windows software was developed by Microsoft Corporation, and on its official website you may find more information about MQ files or the Microsoft Windows software program.

Programs which support MQ file extension

The following listing features MQ-compatible programs. MQ files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 04/28/2020

How to open file with MQ extension?

Being unable to open files with MQ extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with MQ 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 Windows

Install software to open MQ file The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening MQ files is that no program that can handle MQ files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select Microsoft Windows or one of the recommended programs (for example, Microsoft Windows 8, Microsoft Windows 7, Microsoft Windows 10) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support MQ files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. If you want to download Microsoft Windows installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Microsoft Corporation website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update Microsoft Windows to the latest version

Update software that support file extension MQIf the problems with opening MQ files still occur even after installing Microsoft Windows, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft Windows is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that Microsoft Windows cannot handle files with MQ may be that the software is outdated. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Microsoft Windows.

Step 3. Set the default application to open MQ files to Microsoft Windows

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate MQ files with latest version of Microsoft Windows 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.

Associate software with MQ file on Windows

Change the default application in Windows

  • Clicking the MQ 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 Windows installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open MQ files box and clicking OK button.
Associate software with MQ file on Mac

Change the default application in Mac OS

  • By clicking right mouse button on the selected MQ file open the file menu and choose Information
  • Open the Open with section by clicking its name
  • Select Microsoft Windows and click Change for all...
  • Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with MQ extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the MQ is not faulty

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

Check MQ file for viruses
1. Verify that the MQ in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the MQ file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the MQ file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. MQ file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

Did you receive the MQ 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 MQ file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

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

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle Microsoft Windows

If the systems has insufficient resources to open MQ 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 Microsoft Windows Message Data Format files. It may be the case that the MQ files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the MQ file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on MQ file.

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