URL File Extension

Internet Shortcut
- File Type url
- Popularity
- Application Microsoft Edge
- Category Blocked Email Attachment Files, Web Files
- Format Text
What is a URL file?
The URL file extension is linked to Internet Shortcut and belongs to the categories of Blocked Email Attachment Files and Web Files, which include 359 files.
URL file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS and Linux. To open a URL file, you can choose from 10 programs such as Microsoft Edge, Sublime Text and Safari.
MIME types
- application/internet-shortcut
Programs that support URL files
How to open a URL file?
If you cannot open a URL 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 URL files, Microsoft Edge, Sublime Text and Safari are the top choices for users. If you want the most recent release of Microsoft Edge, head over to the Microsoft site and download the version designed to run on all platforms.
After installation, your operating system should automatically open URL files with Microsoft Edge.
Setting Microsoft Edge as default URL viewer
Changing Default Programs in Windows
- Right click on your URL file, then select "Open with" and click "Choose another application";
- Choose Microsoft Edge from the available applications listed in the pop-up window to set it as the default application to open your URL file;
- 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
- Initiate a right click or use Control + left click on the desired URL file to open a menu where you can select various actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Next, at the bottom of the window, you will see the "Enable" menu, in which "Recommended Programs" is selected by default;
- In this menu, select "All Programs", then find Microsoft Edge and check the box next to "Always open in the application."
Tips and tricks to solve problems with URL files
There are some common issues with URL 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 Edge to Crash Frequently?
The likely cause of Microsoft Edge 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 URL file?
Open the corrupted URL file in a recovery program and select the "Repair" menu item. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged blocked email attachment files.
How do I know if my URL file is corrupted?
Common indications of damaged URL blocked email attachment files are:
- The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
- Editing the archive in Sublime Text results in slow or unresponsive behavior;
- Opening or processing the file in Microsoft Edge or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the URL file;
- Error messages appear while working with the file;
How to edit a URL file?
To edit URL files, it is essential to install software that supports not only viewing but also editing the blocked email attachment files. Online URL editors provide limited functionality compared to full-featured software for Internet Shortcut.
List of Top URL editors 2026
Based on these criteria, we have prepared a list of available URL editors.
| URL Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| PSPad | Jan Fiala | Windows | 4.7 out of 5 (41 review) |
| 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) |
| Atom | - | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.1 out of 5 (36 reviews) |
Convert to and from URL
If working with a URL file is challenging, one solution is to convert it to formats like PDF or other supported formats.
Keep in mind that converting a URL file may introduce some limitations, but the original format can often be restored.













