ASHX File Extension

ASP.NET Web Handler Format
- File Type ashx
- Developer Microsoft
- Popularity
- Application Microsoft Visual Studio
- Category Web Files
- Format Text
What is a ASHX file?
ASP.NET Web Handler Format, identified by the ASHX extension, is a Web Files type and includes 283 files.
The ASP.NET Web Handler Format (ASHX), created by Microsoft, is one of file format they developed, and they also built 242 programs to support them.
ASHX file support extends to various operating systems, including Mac OS, Linux and Windows. When working with ASHX files, you can rely on 3 programs, including Microsoft Visual Studio, ASP.NET and Microsoft Internet Information Services.
Programs that support ASHX files
How to open a ASHX file?
If you can’t open a ASHX file, it is usually because the necessary software is missing. To resolve the issue, select the right program from the list for your operating system. Then go to the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it.
When it comes to opening and working with ASHX files, Microsoft Visual Studio, ASP.NET and Microsoft Internet Information Services are the top choices for users. To install the updated version of Microsoft Visual Studio, simply go to the Microsoft site and download the installer compatible with all major platforms.
Once the process is complete, Microsoft Visual Studio should take over as the default application for ASHX files.
Set Microsoft Visual Studio as the default ASHX program
Changing Default Programs in Windows
- Right-click on your ASHX file, then choose the "Open with" option and select "Choose another application" from the available options;
- In the pop-up window, select the Microsoft Visual Studio application;
- Check the "Always use this application" checkbox, and then click "OK" to apply the selected application as the default for opening ASHX files.
Change Default Program on Mac
- Right click or Control + left click on the desired ASHX file;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- At the bottom of the window, you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, will be set to "Recommended Programs";
- Choose "All Programs" in this menu and search for Microsoft Visual Studio. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
How to edit a ASHX file?
To edit ASHX files, it is essential to install software that supports not only viewing but also editing the web files. Online ASHX editors provide limited functionality compared to full-featured software for ASP.NET Web Handler Format.
List of Top ASHX editors 2026
Based on the criteria above, here is a selection of ASHX editors you can use.
| ASHX Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Visual Studio | Microsoft | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.2 out of 5 (35 reviews) |
Solve problems with ASHX files
Rest assured, any issues with ASHX files can typically be addressed with simple software adjustments. See the tips below for help.
Why does Microsoft Visual Studio stop responding or crash intermittently?
Microsoft Visual Studio crashes can be caused by outdated software. Keep your Microsoft products up to date by installing the latest updates.
Restarting your computer will solve many common problems, which is why it’s the first thing you should do before changing any settings related to the software.
What are the best practices for repairing a ASHX file that has gone bad?
Use a data recovery program to open the damaged ASHX file and from the menu choose "Repair" function to start the repair process. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged web files.
What are the warning signs that my ASHX file may be corrupted?
Common indications of damaged ASHX web files are:
- Error messages appear during the course of working with the file;
- Editing the archive in Microsoft Visual Studio results in slow or unresponsive behavior;
- Opening the file results in an error or a failed attempt;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the ASHX file;
- Opening the file in Microsoft Visual Studio or other programs causes them to hang or crash;






