How to open LNK file extension?

The author of advice: Mr Brankiewicz

LNK files are incessantly popular. However, a file name containing LNK file extension is problematic for some of the users. They have problems with correct opening of a file with LNK extension. However, it should be remembered that LNK file extension can match one or more types of files. The most popular is Windows Shortcut Format but if there are others, you will find information concerning them below.

So, it is worth looking close at the problem concerning LNK files and search for its solution.



A list of programs supporting files types with LNK extension can be found below. Applications are sorted according to appropriate operational systems and their popularity.

  • Windows Shortcut Format

    .lnk file extension

    Category:

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    OS Software
    Windows Microsoft Windows 7 Microsoft Windows 7
    MAC OS Parallels Desktop 6 for Mac with Windows installed Parallels Desktop 6 for Mac with Windows installed
    CodeWeavers CrossOver Mac CodeWeavers CrossOver Mac
    Linux CodeWeavers CrossOver Linux CodeWeavers CrossOver Linux
 

How to check if a file we want to open is not infected by malware or viruses?

  • Download Malware/viruses removal tool from LNK files in the Windows system.
  • Click “Start scanning” and wait until the programme performs the scanning process on your computer.

What are the reasons of errors concerning LNK extension of files?

The problem that often causes damage concerning LNK extension are Windows system registry errors. That is why, in the first place it is recommended to:

  • Scan computer in order to identify, repair and open the LNK file
  • Check system registry from the angle of hidden errors
  • Repair file’s associations with programs in the system registry

If you are not sure if the above problems concern you, you should consider other frequent irregularities:

  • You do not have an appropriate application installed that supports LNK file extension
  • LNK file is corrupted
  • The application’s version necessary to open the file is not correct
  • The file is not assigned to an appropriate program

Solving problems with LNK files

lnk

If LNK file does not open, firstly, it is worth using files associations built in the Windows system with application that can support them. In order to do it, you should double-click a LNK file icon. A list of programs that probably support such a file will appear. It is enough to choose one of them so that Windows would open a given extension with it. Incorrect file’s association will result in Windows trying to open LNK file with a wrong program all the time even if there is an appropriate application supporting this format on a drive. In this case, it is necessary to perform the above mentioned registry scanning and associations’ repair.

If associations are correct and Windows still cannot open the file, most probably the computer does not have appropriate software supporting files with name containing LNK in their extension. The solution to this problem is very simple. You should buy or download a free (if they exist) application that will allow you to open, browse and edit LNK format (You can also try to find more informations on FileInfo). It is no risk because many paid programs have free test versions enabling to check their functionality.


Do you have extra information about a LNK file? [ Add information about a LNK file ]

FPBF file extension FTG file extension

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