HDD File Extension
Parallels Desktop Hard Disk Format
- File Type hdd
- Developer Parallels
- Popularity
- Application Parallels Workstation
- Category Virtual Machine Files
- Format Binary
What is a HDD file?
The HDD file extension is linked to Parallels Desktop Hard Disk Format and belongs to the Virtual Machine Files category, which includes 56 files.
The Parallels Desktop Hard Disk Format (HDD) was developed by Parallels Holdings, which created file format and 2 programs to work with them.
HDD files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS and Linux. To open a HDD file, you can choose from 4 programs such as Parallels Workstation, Parallels Desktop and VirtualBox.
Programs that support HDD files
How to open a HDD file?
If you cannot open a HDD file, it is most often due to missing software. Select a program from the list according to your operating system. Then go to the official website of the program developer, download it, and install it on your device.
Parallels Workstation, Parallels Desktop and VirtualBox are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with HDD files. To set up the newest version of Parallels Workstation on your device, simply go to the official Parallels Holdings website. There you can download the edition compatible with every operating system.
Once installed, Parallels Workstation will be set as the default program, and HDD files will open automatically.
Set Parallels Workstation to open HDD by default
Setting a default program by file type in Windows
- Right click on your HDD file, then select "Open with" and click "Choose another application";
- Find the Parallels Workstation application in the pop-up window and select it as your preferred program;
- Select the "Always use this application" check box and click "OK" to save your selection as the default application for opening HDD files.
Change default apps on Mac
- Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired HDD file to access the file’s context menu;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- At the bottom of the window, find the "Enable" menu, where "Recommended Programs" is already selected by default;
- Within this menu, select "All Programs" and then locate Parallels Workstation. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default program.
How to edit a HDD file?
Editing HDD files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit virtual machine files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated Parallels Desktop Hard Disk Format programs.
Best HDD editors in 2026
Considering the mentioned criteria, we have compiled a list of HDD editors that may suit your needs.
| HDD Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parallels Desktop | Parallels Holdings | Mac OS | 4.4 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
| VirtualBox | Oracle | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.4 out of 5 (40 reviews) |
| Parallels Workstation | Parallels Holdings | Windows, Linux | 4.3 out of 5 (43 reviews) |
Convert to and from HDD
If you struggle with a HDD file, consider converting it to alternative formats such as VHD, VMDK, PVS, VDI or other similar file types.
Converting a HDD file may not fully retain all functionality, but it is generally possible to return it to the original format.
Convert HDD to other file formats
Converting Files to HDD Format
Easy HDD Troubleshooting
Certain problems with HDD files can be conveniently fixed with small software tweaks. Here are some helpful tips to address them.
What are the steps to repair a damaged HDD file?
Open the corrupted HDD file in a recovery program and select the "Repair" menu item. Please be patient while the recovery process completes, which will automatically restore the damaged virtual machine files.
How do I know if my HDD file is corrupted?
Corrupted HDD virtual machine files may show the following signs:
- Attempts to open the file result in errors or failed results;
- Editing the archive in Parallels Desktop is accompanied by slow performance or delays;
- The file causes Parallels Workstation or other programs to hang or crash during operation;
- Unexplained increase in HDD file size;
- Error messages appear while working with the file;
What are the reasons behind Parallels Workstation crash?
The likely cause of Parallels Workstation crashing is lack of software updates. Install the latest updates available for Parallels Holdings products.
Restarting your computer is often an effective solution to resolve various common problems. Therefore, it is recommended to do so before making any changes to the software configuration.