DDS Types

Principal DDS Type

.DDS

File Name:	.dds
Type:	DirectDraw Surface

THE DDS file is an image file saved in a raster image format used by Microsoft DirectX to store surfaces and environments. DDS file can store compressed and uncompressed pixel formats and in some cases, it is used for storing Windows desktop backgrounds or wallpapers. DDS files are also used for texturing video game unit models

Developer:	Microsoft Corporation
Kind:	Raster Image Files
Registry Key:	HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.dds

Software Programs That Open The DirectDraw Surface:

Adobe Photoshop by Adobe Systems Incorporated

Windows

Mac

GIMP by The GIMP Development Team

Windows

Mac

Linux

IrfanView by Open Source

Windows

iOS

Android

Linux

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Understanding DDS Issues

Common DDS Opening Problems

Adobe Photoshop is Not Installed

Double-clicking your DDS file prompts the message "%%os%% Can't Open DDS File". Generally, this is experienced in %%os%% because Adobe Photoshop isn't installed on your PC. The typical path of opening your DDS with a double-click won't work because %%os%% cannot make the program connection.

Tip: When you have another program installed that you know will open your DDS, you can select it from the other programs listed (see "Show Apps").

Outdated Adobe Photoshop

It is possible that your version of Adobe Photoshop isn't able to open your DirectDraw Surface file due to incompatibility. Visit the Adobe Systems Incorporated website to download (or purchase) the latest version of Adobe Photoshop. Your DirectDraw Surface file was probably created by a newer release of Adobe Photoshop than what's currently installed your computer.

Tip: Sometimes you can get a clue about the version of DDS file you have by right clicking on the file, then clicking on "Properties" (Windows) or "Get Info" (Mac OSX).

Summary: Not having the right Adobe Photoshop version on your computer can cause problems opening DDS files.

Other DDS File Opening Causes

Errors opening DirectDraw Surface files can still occur even with the latest Adobe Photoshop software installed on your computer. There can be other issues - unrelated to software - preventing you from opening DDS files. Issues that aren't software-related:

• Invalid DDS file references in the Windows Registry (the "phonebook" of the Windows Operating System)
• The DDS file description within the Windows Registry was removed
• Adobe Photoshop or another DDS application experienced a flawed installation
• Your DDS file is corrupted (issues with your DirectDraw Surface file itself)
• Malware-tainted DDS file can't be opened
• Device drivers of the hardware associated with your DDS file are corrupt or out-of-date
• Windows cannot load your DirectDraw Surface file due to insufficient resources (eg. RAM)