HTML File Extension
Hypertext Markup Language Format
- File Type html
- Developer WHATWG
- Popularity
- Application Microsoft Edge
- Category Web Files, Text Files
- Format Text
What is a HTML file?
Hypertext Markup Language Format works with the HTML file extension and is classified under Web Files and Text Files, with a total of 598 files.
HTML files are supported by Windows, Mac OS and Linux. You can open a HTML file using one of 27 programs, for example Microsoft Edge, Atom and Espresso.
Programs that support HTML files
Windows
Mac OS
Online Services
How to open a HTML file?
The most common reason why a HTML 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.
Microsoft Edge, Atom and Espresso stand out as the preferred programs to manage HTML files effectively. To install the current version of Microsoft Edge, go directly to the official Microsoft website. The universal package for all operating systems is available there.
Once the process is complete, Microsoft Edge should take over as the default application for HTML files.
Set Microsoft Edge as your default HTML viewer
Set default app to open files on Mac
- Right-click or Control + left-click on the desired HTML file to open a menu of available actions;
- Choose "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 Edge. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
Set default programs for Windows
- Start the process by right-clicking on your HTML file and selecting "Open With". From there, click "Choose another app" to continue;
- From the list of applications in the pop-up window, find and select Microsoft Edge as your desired application;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to set your chosen app as the default for opening HTML files.
Convert files to and from HTML
For difficult HTML files, try converting them to formats like JPG, JPEG, PNG, PDF, CSV or similar formats to improve usability.
Be aware that converting a HTML file may reduce some features, but you can usually revert it to the original format.
Convert HTML to other file formats
Solving Common HTML File Challenges
Rest assured, any issues with HTML files can typically be addressed with simple software adjustments. See the tips below for help.
How can I confirm if my HTML file has been damaged?
HTML web files that have become corrupted may display one or more of the following symptoms:
- The file exhibits poor performance during editing operations in Sublime Text;
- The file causes Microsoft Edge or other software to hang or crash during various operations;
- The file encounters problems during the opening process or shows error indications;
- An unexplained increase in the size of the HTML file;
- The file operation is accompanied by the display of error messages;
Why does Microsoft Edge crash or shut down frequently?
Lack of regular software updates can cause Microsoft Edge to crash. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for Microsoft products.
A simple restart of your computer can often fix many common problems, which is why it is the recommended first step before making any adjustments to your software settings.
Is there any specific software or utility that can help repair a damaged HTML file?
Start a recovery program, open the damaged HTML file and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair procedure. Wait for the recovery process to finish as it will automatically restore the damaged web files.
How to edit a HTML file?
To make changes to HTML files, you need specialized software that allows both opening and editing the web files. Online HTML editors offer fewer capabilities than applications optimized for Hypertext Markup Language Format.
Best HTML editors 2026
Based on the criteria above, here is a selection of HTML editors you can use.
| HTML Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Espresso | MacRabbit | Mac OS | 4.7 out of 5 (43 reviews) |
| Visual Studio Code | Microsoft | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.7 out of 5 (38 reviews) |
| CoffeeCup HTML Editor | CoffeeCup | Windows | 4.6 out of 5 (43 reviews) |
| Notepad++ | Notepad++ Team | Windows | 4.6 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
| Sublime Text | Sublime HQ Pty | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.6 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
| Adobe Dreamweaver | Adobe | Windows, Mac OS | 4.5 out of 5 (38 reviews) |
| WebsitePainter | Ambiera | Mac OS | 4.5 out of 5 (35 reviews) |
| Source Edit | Brixoft | Windows | 4.3 out of 5 (32 reviews) |
| Atom | - | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.1 out of 5 (36 reviews) |
| HyperEdit | Tumult | Mac OS | 4.1 out of 5 (39 reviews) |