VB File Extension

VB file icon

VBScript Format

What is a VB file?

Files with the VB extension are associated with VBScript Format and are categorized as Executable Files, Developer Files, Blocked Email Attachment Files and Dangerous Files, making up 1416 files.

The VBScript Format (VB), created by Microsoft, is one of file format they developed, and they also built 242 programs to support them.

VB files are supported by Mac OS, Windows and Linux. When working with VB files, you can rely on 11 programs, including Microsoft Visual Studio, Gedit and Visual Studio Code.

How to open a VB file?

If you can’t open a VB file, it is usually because the necessary software is missing. To resolve the issue, select the right program from the list for your operating system. Then go to the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it.

The most popular programs for working with VB files are Microsoft Visual Studio, Gedit and Visual Studio Code. To install the latest version of Windows Notepad on your computer, visit the Microsoft website where you can download the version available for all operating systems.

Following installation, VB files should be automatically opened with Windows Notepad.

Set Windows Notepad as your default VB viewer

Changing the default program in Windows

  1. Right-click on your VB file, then choose the "Open with" option and select "Choose another application" from the available options;
  2. From the list of applications in the pop-up window, find and select Windows Notepad as your desired application;
  3. Check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to set your chosen app as the default for opening VB files.

Set default app to open files on Mac

  1. Right-click or Control + left-click on the desired VB file to open a menu of available actions;
  2. Select "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 Windows Notepad. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make sure it’s the default option.

How to edit a VB file?

To edit VB files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify executable files. Online VB editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for VBScript Format.

Best VB editors in 2026

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

VB Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
TextEditAppleMac OS4.8 out of 5 (40 reviews)
Visual Studio CodeMicrosoftWindows, Mac OS, Linux4.7 out of 5 (38 reviews)
GeditGNOMELinux4.6 out of 5 (38 reviews)
Notepad++Notepad++ TeamWindows4.6 out of 5 (37 reviews)
Sublime TextSublime HQ PtyWindows, Mac OS, Linux4.6 out of 5 (39 reviews)
Adobe DreamweaverAdobeWindows, Mac OS4.5 out of 5 (38 reviews)
NvuLinspire. (Xandros)Windows, Mac OS, Linux4.5 out of 5 (36 reviews)
Microsoft Visual StudioMicrosoftWindows, Mac OS, Linux4.2 out of 5 (35 reviews)
Windows NotepadMicrosoftWindows4.2 out of 5 (37 reviews)
Atom-Windows, Mac OS, Linux4.1 out of 5 (36 reviews)

Solving Common VB File Challenges

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

What are the warning signs that my VB file may be corrupted?

Corrupted VB executable files may have one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Error messages appear during the course of working with the file;
  • Poor performance when editing a file in Microsoft Visual Studio;
  • Attempts to open the file result in errors or failed results;
  • Unexplained increase in VB file size;
  • The file causes Windows Notepad or other programs to hang or crash during operation;

Why does Windows Notepad crash?

Windows Notepad crashes can be caused by outdated software. Keep your Microsoft products up to date by installing the latest updates.

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.

How to repair a corrupted VB file?

Use a data recovery program to open the damaged VB file and from the menu choose "Repair" function to start the repair process. Please be patient while the recovery process completes, which will automatically restore the damaged executable files.