TXT File Extension

What is TXT file?

Files with TXT extension contain unformatted text. TXT files can be opened and edited using even the simplest text editors, available on most operating systems by default.

What features do TXT files offer?

TXT is a simple text file that offers limited text formatting capabilities compared with document formats used by advanced word processors (such as DOCX). TXT files only allow users to change font style and size.

What are TXT used for?

Unformatted text files are typically used to save short notes. TXT files are also commonly included with software installers (typically named Readme.txt) and contain such information as system requirements, main functions, version number, etc.

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Programs which support TXT file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with TXT files, divided into 5 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with TXT 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: 12/25/2023

How to open file with TXT extension?

Being unable to open files with TXT extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with TXT extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install Windows Notepad software

Problems with opening and working with TXT files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with TXT files being present on your machine. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Windows Notepad or different compatible program, such as FB2 Reader, Raccoon Reader, READU. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support TXT files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Windows Notepad website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of Windows Notepad and update if needed

If the problems with opening TXT files still occur even after installing Windows Notepad, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Windows Notepad is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. If you have an older version of Windows Notepad installed, it may not support TXT format. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Windows Notepad.

Step 3. Associate Plain Text Format files with Windows Notepad

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

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the TXT file and choose Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Windows Notepad is installed, check the Always use this app to open TXT files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with TXT extension, 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
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with TXT extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the TXT for errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the TXT file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the TXT file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the TXT file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. TXT 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 TXT 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. When downloading the file with TXT 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.

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Plain Text Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Windows Notepad

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

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

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Plain Text Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the TXT files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the TXT 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 TXT file.