File extension .WIM
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Windows Imaging Format Archive Format | Microsoft | Disk Image Files |
The .WIM (Windows Imaging Format File) is an image file format used by Microsoft Windows for the installation of the operating system, disaster recovery and for virtual machines. It is a compressed file format that stores multiple images. The format was introduced in Windows Vista where it immediately became the standard for storing pre-installation images.
Advantages of using WIM Files
Compared to other image formats, such as .ISO, WIM files provide numerous advantages:
- Compression: WIM can be used to store several images with a smaller storage footprint.
- Split Images: WIM files consist of multiple parts, which ensures greater flexibility when handling large images.
- Metadata: Each WIM image includes a small amount of metadata, which can include a description, version number etc.
Similar File Extensions
The WIM file type is commonly associated with similar image formats such as .CAB, .DMG, .TAR, and .VHDX. However, these are different file types that have different purposes and applications.
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .WIM) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .WIM extension.
When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.
Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .WIM file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .WIM extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .WIM extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .WIM file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .WIM file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.
In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .WIM file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .WIM file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .WIM file has no errors
- or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly
Author’s guidelines
Mr B. Adam
Author of the guidelines / Founder of FileExtension.info
New technologies enthusiast, helping to solve problems with the files.
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