RESX File Extension
.NET Managed Resources Format
- File Type resx
- Developer Microsoft
- Popularity
- Application Notepad++
- Category Developer Files, Settings Files
- Format XML
What is a RESX file?
.NET Managed Resources Format files, recognized by the RESX extension, fall into the Developer Files and Settings Files categories, amounting to 2356 files.
The .NET Managed Resources Format (RESX) was created by Microsoft, a company that developed file format and produced 242 programs for their use.
RESX files are supported by Mac OS, Linux and Windows. If you need to open a RESX file, you can use one of 9 programs, such as Microsoft Visual Studio, Gedit and Atom.
Programs that support RESX files
How to open a RESX file?
If you’re having difficulty opening a RESX file, it is often due to not having the correct software. To solve the problem, choose a compatible program from the list. Then follow the link to the official developer site, download the software, and install it on your device.
The most popular programs for working with RESX files are Microsoft Visual Studio, Gedit and Atom. To install the current version of Notepad++, go directly to the official Notepad++ Team website. The universal package for all operating systems is available there.
After installing, your OS should instantly open RESX files with Notepad++.
Set Notepad++ to open RESX by default
Changing the default program in Windows
- Right-click your RESX file, then navigate to the "Open With" option and click "Choose Another Application" to continue;
- Find the Notepad++ 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 RESX files.
Change default apps on Mac
- Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired RESX file to access the file’s context menu;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Look towards the bottom of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. "Recommended programs" will be the default selection;
- Choose "All Programs" in this menu and search for Notepad++. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default option.
How to edit a RESX file?
To edit RESX files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify developer files. Online RESX editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for .NET Managed Resources Format.
List of Top RESX editors 2026
Based on the specified criteria, here is a list of RESX editors that may fit your requirements.
| RESX Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sublime Text | Sublime HQ Pty | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.8 out of 5 (42 reviews) |
| Gedit | GNOME | Linux | 4.5 out of 5 (41 review) |
| Windows Notepad | Microsoft | Windows | 4.5 out of 5 (41 review) |
| PSPad | Jan Fiala | Windows | 4.4 out of 5 (43 reviews) |
| Atom | - | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.3 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
| GNU Emacs | FSF | Linux | 4.3 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
| TextEdit | Apple | Mac OS | 4.2 out of 5 (42 reviews) |
| Microsoft Visual Studio | Microsoft | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.1 out of 5 (38 reviews) |
| Notepad++ | Notepad++ Team | Windows | 4.1 out of 5 (40 reviews) |
Easy RESX Troubleshooting
Problematic RESX files can usually be resolved by making small changes in your software. See the tips below to help fix common issues.
What are the telltale signs of a corrupt RESX file?
Corrupted RESX developer files may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the RESX file;
- Opening the file in Notepad++ or other programs causes them to hang or crash;
- Opening the file results in an error or a failed attempt;
- While working with the file, error messages appear;
- Poor performance when editing a file in Microsoft Visual Studio;
Why does Notepad++ crash or shut down frequently?
Notepad++ crashes can occur due to outdated software versions. To mitigate this, install the latest updates for Notepad++ Team 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.
Is there any specific software or utility that can help repair a damaged RESX file?
Open the damaged RESX file with a recovery program, and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair process. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged developer files.