HHK File Extension

HHK file icon

HTML Help Index

What is a HHK file?

HTML Help Index, identified by the HHK extension, is a System Files type and includes 251 files.

The HTML Help Index (HHK) was developed by Microsoft, which created file format and 242 programs to work with them.

HHK file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows. To create a HHK file, you can choose from 3 programs such as Microsoft HTML Help Workshop, Microsoft Windows Help and Microsoft Windows.

How to open a HHK file?

If you cannot open a HHK 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.

When it comes to opening and working with HHK files, Microsoft HTML Help Workshop, Microsoft Windows Help and Microsoft Windows are the top choices for users. If you want the most recent release of Microsoft HTML Help Workshop, head over to the Microsoft site and download the version designed to run on all platforms.

After installation, your operating system should automatically open HHK files with Microsoft HTML Help Workshop.

Setting Microsoft HTML Help Workshop as default HHK viewer

Changing Default Programs in Windows

  1. Right click on your HHK file, then select "Open with" and click "Choose another application";
  2. Choose Microsoft HTML Help Workshop from the available applications listed in the pop-up window to set it as the default application to open your HHK file;
  3. Be sure to check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to confirm your selection.

Change the default app for a file type in Mac

  1. Initiate a right click or use Control + left click on the desired HHK file to open a menu where you can select various actions;
  2. Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
  3. Next, at the bottom of the window, you will see the "Enable" menu, in which "Recommended Programs" is selected by default;
  4. In this menu, select "All Programs", then find Microsoft HTML Help Workshop and check the box next to "Always open in the application."

How to edit a HHK file?

To edit HHK files, it is essential to install software that supports not only viewing but also editing the system files. Online HHK editors provide limited functionality compared to full-featured software for HTML Help Index.

List of Top HHK editors 2026

Based on these criteria, we have prepared a list of available HHK editors.

HHK Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
Microsoft HTML Help WorkshopMicrosoftWindows4.4 out of 5 (42 reviews)
Microsoft Windows HelpMicrosoftWindows4.2 out of 5 (38 reviews)

Tips and tricks to solve problems with HHK files

There are some common issues with HHK files that can be resolved easily by making minor adjustments to your software. Below, you’ll find these issues along with practical troubleshooting tips.

What Causes Microsoft HTML Help Workshop to Crash Frequently?

The likely cause of Microsoft HTML Help Workshop crashing is lack of software updates. Install the latest updates available for Microsoft products.

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.

How can I restore a damaged HHK file?

Open the corrupted HHK file in a recovery program and select the "Repair" menu item. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged system files.

How do I know if my HHK file is corrupted?

Common indications of damaged HHK system files are:

  • The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
  • Editing the archive in Microsoft HTML Help Workshop results in slow or unresponsive behavior;
  • Opening or processing the file in Microsoft HTML Help Workshop or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
  • Unexpected expansion of the total size of the HHK file;
  • Error messages appear while working with the file;