Understanding MPD Issues
Common Problems Opening MPD Files
Microsoft Office Isn't There
When you double-click your MPD file, you may see a dialog box from your operating system stating that it "Cannot Open This File Type". When this happens, it is commonly due to Microsoft Office missing in %%os%%. Because your operating system doesn't know what to do with this file, you won't be able to open it by double-clicking.
Tip: When you have another program installed that you know will open your MPD, you can select it from the other programs listed (see "Show Apps").
Microsoft Office Requires Update
Occasionally, you might have an outdated version of Microsoft Office installed that's incompatible with your Microsoft Project Database type. If you've got the wrong version of Microsoft Office installed, you'll need to install the correct version. Most of the time your Microsoft Project Database file was created by a newer Microsoft Office than what you have installed.
Tip: Right-clicking on your MPD, then clicking "Properties" (Windows) or "Get Info" (Mac), can provide clues about your file version.
Summary: In either case, the majority of problems opening MPD files are related to not having the correct software application installed on your computer.
Additional MPD Opening Issues
In the majority of cases, installing the right version of Microsoft Office will resolve your issue. Other MPD opening errors can be created by other system problems inside of %%os%%. These other problems include (listed in order from most to least common):
- Invalid MPD file references in the Windows Registry (the "phonebook" of the Windows Operating System)
- Corruption of the MPD file description inside the Registry
- Microsoft Office or another MPD application experienced a flawed installation
- MPD file corruption
- MPD file integrity has been compromised by malware
- Device drivers of the hardware associated with your MPD file are corrupt or out-of-date
- Your computer does not have the adequate system resources to open the Microsoft Project Database format
Quiz: What file extension is not associated with Microsoft Office?
That's Correct!
MPEGs are a type of compressed video file. Videos shot with cell phones, digital cameras, and other devices typically use this format.
Close, but not quite...
MPEGs are a type of compressed video file. Videos shot with cell phones, digital cameras, and other devices typically use this format.
Poll: What file type do you use most often?