COM File Extension

COM file icon

DOS Command Format

What is a COM file?

Files with the COM extension are associated with DOS Command Format and are categorized as Blocked Email Attachment Files, Dangerous Files and Executable Files, making up 250 files.

The DOS Command Format (COM), created by Microsoft, is one of file format they developed, and they also built 242 programs to support them.

COM files are compatible with various operating systems, including Mac OS, Linux and Windows. When working with COM files, you can rely on 11 programs, including CP/M, Microsoft Windows XP Professional and Microsoft Windows 3.x.

MIME types

  • application/x-msdos-program
  • application/x-msdownload

How to open a COM file?

If you can’t open a COM 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.

CP/M, Microsoft Windows XP Professional and Microsoft Windows 3.x are among the most widely used programs for handling COM files. To install the most up-to-date edition of Microsoft Windows, visit the official Microsoft website. You can download the build that works across all operating systems.

Once the process is complete, Microsoft Windows should take over as the default application for COM files.

Setting Microsoft Windows as default COM viewer

Change the default app for a file type in Mac

  1. Initiate a right click or use Control + left click on the desired COM file to open a menu where you can select various actions;
  2. Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
  3. At the bottom of the window, you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, will be set to "Recommended Programs";
  4. Choose "All Programs" in this menu and search for Microsoft Windows. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.

Change default programs in Windows

  1. Take the first step by right-clicking on your COM file. Next, select "Open With" and then choose "Choose another app" from the available options;
  2. Choose Microsoft Windows from the available applications listed in the pop-up window to set it as the default application to open your COM file;
  3. Be sure to check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to confirm your selection.

Tips and tricks to solve problems with COM files

Rest assured, any issues with COM files can typically be addressed with simple software adjustments. See the tips below for help.

Are there any techniques or tools available to repair a damaged COM file?

In FixExec, open the damaged COM file and navigate to the "Repair" menu item. Please wait patiently for the recovery process to finish as it will automatically repair the damaged blocked email attachment files.

How do I know if my COM file has been damaged?

The signs of corrupted COM blocked email attachment files can manifest as:

  • Error alerts occur when actions are performed on the file;
  • The file does not open correctly or displays error messages;
  • An unexplained increase in the size of the COM file;
  • Trying to work with the archive in Microsoft Windows or other programs causes instability or program crashes;

What factors contribute to Microsoft Windows crash?

Lack of software updates is a possible reason behind Microsoft Windows crash. Keep your Microsoft products up to date by installing the latest updates.

Restarting your computer is an essential troubleshooting step that can resolve many common problems. It is recommended to restart your computer before making any changes to the software settings.