How to Open a File With the DESKTOP File Extension

If you're looking to find out how to open the DESKTOP file extension, you've come to the right place. In most cases, Windows will open a file in the associated program, but some files fall outside of those parameters. Keep reading to find out how you can open your DESKTOP file on both Windows and Mac.

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Issue: You Can't Open DESKTOP Files

You might've double-clicked on the file, to be greeted with the "Choose a program to open the file" message. In some cases, you might be able to open the file, but the contents may seem garbled and that's because it was written to be opened in a specific program. Of course, you can't open a DESKTOP file with just any software. Not to worry - we have you covered!

Step 1: Find Out Which Software Uses DESKTOP Files

Computer Files

Opening your DESKTOP file starts with understanding which software uses a DESKTOP extension. In many cases, different types of software may use the same file extensions, also known as file associations.

Unknown Apple II File, DesktopX Theme, and KDevelop Desktop Template File are the most popular software packages that use DESKTOP files. Therefore, your best bet would be to download one of these software packages and use one of them to open your file.

Lightbulb

Zipped files tend to require special handling and may require password access. Contact the file owner or the person who gave you the file for the password and unzip the file before attempting to open the contents.

Step 2: Learning More About DESKTOP "File Type"

If you can't download Unknown Apple II File, DesktopX Theme, or KDevelop Desktop Template File software, or if they don't work to open your DESKTOP file, you may be able to use the file type as a clue to finding out how you can open it. Using a Windows PC, you can right-click and navigate to "Properties" and then to "Type of file". On a Mac, select "More info" and "Kind".

Most likely, you will find that DESKTOP files are considered Misc Files. Because many programs packages utilize Misc Files, you might be able to find a program on your computer that handles those types of files.

If that still does not work, you may have to contact the associated software developer to find out how to open it. Unless you know the specific developer, you could contact one of these developers for assistance.

Please see our chart below of software titles and their developers:

Software Developer
Unknown Apple II File found on Golden Orchard Apple II CD Rom
DesktopX Theme Stardock Corporation Inc.
KDevelop Desktop Template File KDevelop Team
Desktop Entry Standard Desktop Entry File Windows Programmer

Solution: Use File Magic to Open Your DESKTOP File

Tools

Although some files must be opened in binary file format (ie. in the program or device for which it was developed), you might be able to open it with a universal software viewer. Depending on the exact file format, you could use a universal software viewer such as File Magic [download] to open your DESKTOP file. Download File Magic today to open your DESKTOP files and hundreds of other file types with one program.


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