Types of VSIX Files

Principal VSIX Type

.VSIX

File Format:	.vsix
Group:	Visual Studio Extension

The VSIX file extension is entirely related to the Visual Studio software, an IDE (integrated development environment) for Windows operating system. Visual Studio recognizes the VSIX file extension and automatically installs the file contents to the right location. The VSIX file suffix can be renamed to ZIP, consequently, any ZIP browser can be used to browse the files.

Organization:	Microsoft Corporation
Function:	Plugin Files
Subkey:	HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.vsix

Software Programs That Open The Visual Studio Extension:

Microsoft Visual Studio by Microsoft Corporation

Windows

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VSIX File Complications

Common Problems Opening VSIX Files

Microsoft Visual Studio Removed

You attempt to load your VSIX file and get an error such as "%%os%% Can't Open The VSIX File Extension". If so, it typically means that you don't have Microsoft Visual Studio installed for %%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: Another VSIX-related program can be selected to open the file by clicking "Show Apps" and finding the application.

Incorrect Microsoft Visual Studio Version

In other instances, your Visual Studio Extension file version may not be supported by your version of Microsoft Visual Studio. You will need to download a newer version of Microsoft Visual Studio if you don't have the right version. The primary cause of this problem is that your Visual Studio Extension file was created by a different (newer) version of Microsoft Visual Studio than what's installed.

Tip: Find clues on the correct software version by right-clicking your VSIX file and clicking "Properties".

Summary: In either case, the majority of problems opening VSIX files are related to not having the correct software application installed on your computer.

Other VSIX File Opening Causes

Even with the correct version of Microsoft Visual Studio installed, you can still experience difficulties opening VSIXs. Other VSIX opening errors can be created by other system problems inside of %%os%%. These other problems include (listed in order from most to least common):

• File references in the Windows Registry for VSIX are wrong
• Deletion of the VSIX file description from the Registry by mistake
• Invalid installation of a VSIX-associated program (eg. Microsoft Visual Studio)
• The VSIX itself is corrupted
• Your VSIX has adversely impacted by malware
• Device drivers for VSIX-related hardware are out-of-date
• Your PC doesn’t have enough available resources to open the Visual Studio Extension file