MAV File Extension

MAV file icon

Access View Format

What is a MAV file?

The MAV file extension is linked to Access View Format and belongs to the categories of Database Files and Blocked Email Attachment Files, which include 342 files.

The Access View Format (MAV) was developed by Microsoft, which created file format and 242 programs to work with them.

MAV files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows. To create a MAV file, you can choose from 2 programs such as Microsoft Access and Microsoft Office.

Programs that support MAV files

How to open a MAV file?

If you cannot open a MAV 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.

Microsoft Access and Microsoft Office are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with MAV files. To set up the newest version of Microsoft Access on your device, simply go to the official Microsoft website. There you can download the edition compatible with every operating system.

Once installed, Microsoft Access will be set as the default program, and MAV files will open automatically.

Set Microsoft Access to open MAV by default

Setting a default program by file type in Windows

  1. Right click on your MAV file, then select "Open with" and click "Choose another application";
  2. Find the Microsoft Access application in the pop-up window and select it as your preferred program;
  3. Select the "Always use this application" check box and click "OK" to save your selection as the default application for opening MAV files.

Change default apps on Mac

  1. Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired MAV file to access the file’s context menu;
  2. Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
  3. At the bottom of the window, find the "Enable" menu, where "Recommended Programs" is already selected by default;
  4. Within this menu, select "All Programs" and then locate Microsoft Access. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default program.

How to edit a MAV file?

Editing MAV files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit database files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated Access View Format programs.

Best MAV editors in 2026

Considering the mentioned criteria, we have compiled a list of MAV editors that may suit your needs.

MAV Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
Microsoft AccessMicrosoftWindows4.4 out of 5 (34 reviews)

Easy MAV Troubleshooting

Certain problems with MAV 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 MAV file?

Open the corrupted MAV 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 database files.

How do I know if my MAV file is corrupted?

Corrupted MAV database files may show the following signs:

  • Attempts to open the file result in errors or failed results;
  • Editing the archive in Microsoft Access is accompanied by slow performance or delays;
  • The file causes Microsoft Access or other programs to hang or crash during operation;
  • Unexplained increase in MAV file size;
  • Error messages appear while working with the file;

What are the reasons behind Microsoft Access crash?

The likely cause of Microsoft Access crashing is lack of software updates. Install the latest updates available for Microsoft 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.