OCX Troubleshooting
Common OCX Opening Problems
Microsoft Visual Studio Disappeared
When trying to open your OCX file, you get the error "Can't Open OCX File Type". If this is the case, it's usually due to the fact that you do not have Microsoft Visual Studio for %%os%% installed on your computer. 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: If you don't have Microsoft Visual Studio installed, and you know of another program to open your OCX file, you can try opening it by selecting from the programs listed under "Show Apps".
Incorrect Microsoft Visual Studio Version
Occasionally, you might have an outdated version of Microsoft Visual Studio installed that's incompatible with your ActiveX Control type. Visit the Microsoft Corporation website to download (or purchase) the latest version of Microsoft Visual Studio. This issue mainly occurs when your ActiveX Control file was created by a newer version of Microsoft Visual Studio than you have on your PC.
Tip: Right-clicking on your OCX, then clicking "Properties" (Windows) or "Get Info" (Mac), can provide clues about your file version.
Regardless, most of the OCX file opening problems relate to not having the right version of Microsoft Visual Studio installed.
Other OCX File Opening Causes
Even with the correct version of Microsoft Visual Studio installed, you can still experience difficulties opening OCXs. If you are continuing to have errors with loading OCX files, other external issues might be to blame. These issues include:
- Windows Registry OCX file paths that are incorrect
- Accidental deletion of the description of the OCX file in the Windows registry
- Partial installation of Microsoft Visual Studio that did not fully complete
- Your OCX file is corrupted (issues with your ActiveX Control file itself)
- Your OCX is infected with malware
- Device drivers of the hardware associated with your OCX file are corrupt or out-of-date
- Windows cannot load your ActiveX Control file due to insufficient resources (eg. RAM)
Poll: What file extension do you use the most often?