Types of SO Files

Leading SO Type

.SO

Extension:	.so
Class:	Shared Library

A shared library that programs written in C and C++ load when they start. It has the functions plus other shared program logic. It is used to load common libraries in the memory to allow the use of the same codebase to multiple programs even though they run in different processes on the operating system.

Programmer:	GNU Project
Group:	Developer Files
Location:	HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.so

Software Programs That Open The Shared Library:

GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) by GNU Project

Mac

Linux

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SO Troubleshooting

Issues Opening SO Files

Missing GNU Compiler Collection (GCC)

When you double-click your SO file, you may see a dialog box from your operating system stating that it "Cannot Open This File Type". Customarily, this means that GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) is not installed on %%os%%. Your operating system cannot associate your SO with GNU Compiler Collection (GCC), so double-clicking the file won't work.

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

GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) is Out-of-Date

In some cases, you might have a newer (or older) version of a Shared Library file that is unsupported by your installed application version. Download the latest GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) version from the GNU Project website to ensure you have the correct one installed. Your Shared Library file was probably created by a newer release of GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) than what's currently installed your computer.

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

Ultimately, most of the difficulties opening SO files are due to having the wrong version of GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) installed.

Associated Difficulties Loading SO Files

You can still experience errors opening SO files even with the latest version of GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) installed on your PC. There can be other issues - unrelated to software - preventing you from opening SO files. Problems unrelated to software:

• Corrupt Windows Registry file path references for SO
• Accidental deletion of the description of the SO file in the Windows registry
• Partial installation of GNU Compiler Collection (GCC) that did not fully complete
• File corruption affecting your SO file
• Malware-tainted SO file can't be opened
• SO-related hardware has device drivers that obsolete
• Insufficient system resources to successfully open Shared Library files