Sources of OSD Problems
Troubles Opening OSD Files
Microsoft Application Virtualization Isn't There
You attempt to load your OSD file and get an error such as "%%os%% Can't Open The OSD File Extension". If this is the case, it's usually due to the fact that you do not have Microsoft Application Virtualization 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 have another software that you know opens OSD files, you can select it by hitting the "Show Apps" button.
Outdated Microsoft Application Virtualization
Occasionally, you might have an outdated version of Microsoft Application Virtualization installed that's incompatible with your Open Software Description Data type. Visit the Microsoft Corporation website to download (or purchase) the latest version of Microsoft Application Virtualization. Most of the time your Open Software Description Data file was created by a newer Microsoft Application Virtualization than what you have installed.
Tip: If you right-click on your OSD file, then select "Properties" (Windows) or "Get Info" (Mac), you can obtain hints about what version you need.
Regardless, most of the OSD file opening problems relate to not having the right version of Microsoft Application Virtualization installed.
More Causes of Problems Opening OSDs
Even with the correct version of Microsoft Application Virtualization installed, you can still experience difficulties opening OSDs. There can be other issues - unrelated to software - preventing you from opening OSD files. Other contributing causes:
- Windows Registry OSD file paths that are incorrect
- Accidental deletion of the description of the OSD file in the Windows registry
- Microsoft Application Virtualization or another OSD application experienced a flawed installation
- Your OSD file is corrupted (issues with your Open Software Description Data file itself)
- The OSD is infected with a virus
- Hardware related to OSDs has device driver corruption
- Windows has inadequate resources to open your Open Software Description Data file
Poll: Which type of computing device you most often use to open files?