APS File Extension
Visual C++ Resource Format
- File Type aps
- Developer Microsoft
- Popularity
- Application Visual C++
- Category Developer Files
- Format Binary
What is a APS file?
Visual C++ Resource Format, identified by the APS extension, is a Developer Files type and includes 1166 files.
With the creation of the Visual C++ Resource Format (APS), Microsoft introduced file format along with 242 programs built for their use.
APS files are supported by Windows, Linux and Mac OS. You can create a APS file using one of 2 programs, for example Visual C++ and Microsoft Visual Studio.
Programs that support APS files
How to open a APS file?
The most common reason why a APS file cannot be opened is the absence of required software. To fix this, select a compatible program from the list. Then visit the official developer website via the provided link, download the program, and install it on your system.
The most popular programs for working with APS files are Visual C++ and Microsoft Visual Studio. To get the latest version of Visual C++, open the Microsoft website where a universal installer for all operating systems is available.
Once setup is done, your operating system should assign Visual C++ as the default app for APS files.
Make Visual C++ the default APS viewer
Changing the default program in Windows
- Start by right-clicking on your APS file and selecting the "Open With" option. From there, click "Choose another app" to continue;
- Inside the popup window, scroll through the list of applications and specifically choose Visual C++ as the application to associate with your APS file;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK".
Change the default app to open files on Mac
- Right click or use Control + Left Click on the desired APS file to access a dropdown menu of actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Scroll down to the bottom of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, "Recommended Programs" will be selected;
- In this menu, choose "All Programs" and navigate to Visual C++. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
How to edit a APS file?
To edit APS files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify developer files. Online APS editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for Visual C++ Resource Format.
List of Top APS editors 2026
Following these criteria, we have put together a list of recommended APS editors.
| APS Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual C++ | Microsoft | Windows | 4.8 out of 5 (47 reviews) |
| Microsoft Visual Studio | Microsoft | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.7 out of 5 (40 reviews) |
Finding answers to APS file problems
If you encounter issues with APS files, don’t worry—most can be fixed with minor software adjustments. Refer to the troubleshooting tips below.
What are the signs that my APS file is damaged?
Corrupted APS developer files may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Poor performance when editing a file in Visual C++;
- Opening or processing the file in Visual C++ or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
- The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the APS file;
- Working with the file triggers the display of error messages;
Why does Visual C++ quit or crash unexpectedly?
Visual C++ crashes can be attributed to outdated software. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for Microsoft products.
A computer restart is often the key to solving numerous common problems. That’s why, it is recommended to restart the computer before making any changes to the software settings.
What methods can be used to repair a damaged APS file?
Use a recovery program to open the damaged APS file and navigate to the "Repair" menu item. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged developer files.