NT File Extension

NT file icon

Windows NT Startup Format

What is a NT file?

Windows NT Startup Format works with the NT file extension and is classified under Executable Files, Developer Files and Text Files, with a total of 1569 files.

With the creation of the Windows NT Startup Format (NT), Microsoft introduced file format along with 242 programs built for their use.

NT files are compatible with various operating systems, including Linux, Windows and Mac OS. You can open a NT file using one of 6 programs, for example Atom, PSPad and Sublime Text.

How to open a NT file?

The most common reason why a NT 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.

Atom, PSPad and Sublime Text are among the most widely used programs for handling NT files. If you wish to install the latest release of PSPad, visit the official Jan Fiala portal and download the edition that works on any operating system.

Following installation, NT files should be automatically opened with PSPad.

Set PSPad as the default NT application

Change the default app that opens a file on Mac

  1. Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired NT file to open a menu where you can choose from multiple actions;
  2. Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
  3. Look at the bottom of the window, where you will see the "Enable" menu. "Recommended Programs" will be selected as the default option;
  4. Within this menu select "All Programs" and navigate to PSPad. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make sure it’s the default option.

Change default programs in Windows

  1. Start the process by right-clicking on your NT file and selecting "Open With". From there, click "Choose another app" to continue;
  2. From the options listed in the pop-up window, specifically choose PSPad as the application to handle your NT file;
  3. Be sure to check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK" to save your preference.

Troubleshooting guide for NT file complications

When issues arise with NT files, they can generally be fixed with small software tweaks. Use the troubleshooting tips below to help resolve them.

What are the possible solutions to recover a corrupt NT file?

Start a recovery program, open the damaged NT file and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair procedure. Wait for the recovery process to finish, allowing automatic repair of damaged executable files.

How can I confirm if my NT file has been damaged?

The signs of corrupted NT executable files can manifest as:

  • The file shows slow performance when edited in PSPad;
  • The file stops responding or freezes in PSPad or other programs;
  • The file does not respond or shows errors when opening it;
  • Unexplained NT file size inflation;
  • The file operation is accompanied by the display of error messages;

What are the possible causes of PSPad crashing?

Lack of regular software updates can cause PSPad to crash. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for Jan Fiala products.

Restarting your computer is a crucial troubleshooting measure that can alleviate numerous common problems. Therefore, it is advisable to restart your computer before modifying any settings related to the software.

How to edit a NT file?

To modify NT files, it is necessary to install dedicated software that lets you open and edit executable files. Online NT editors generally offer fewer tools compared to programs designed for Windows NT Startup Format.

Best NT Editor Software in 2026

Taking into account the provided details, we have prepared a list of NT editors that match your needs.

NT Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
PSPadJan FialaWindows4.7 out of 5 (41 review)
Notepad++Notepad++ TeamWindows4.6 out of 5 (37 reviews)
Sublime TextSublime HQ PtyWindows, Mac OS, Linux4.6 out of 5 (39 reviews)
Adobe ExtendScriptAdobeWindows4.2 out of 5 (35 reviews)
Atom-Windows, Mac OS, Linux4.1 out of 5 (36 reviews)