VMC File Extension
Windows Virtual Machine Configuration Format
- File Type vmc
- Developer Microsoft
- Popularity
- Application Windows Virtual PC
- Category Virtual Machine Files
- Format XML
What is a VMC file?
The VMC file extension is linked to Windows Virtual Machine Configuration Format and belongs to the Virtual Machine Files category, which includes 56 files.
With the creation of the Windows Virtual Machine Configuration Format (VMC), Microsoft introduced file format along with 242 programs built for their use.
VMC files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Linux and Mac OS. You can open a VMC file using one of 6 programs, for example Windows Virtual PC, Parallels Workstation and VMware Player.
File Signature
HEX code: FF FE 3C 00 3F 00 78 00 6D 00 6C 00 20 00 76 00 65. ASCII code: ? x m l v e r s i o n =.
Programs that support VMC files
How to open a VMC file?
The most common reason why a VMC 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.
Windows Virtual PC, Parallels Workstation and VMware Player are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with VMC files. To install the most up-to-date edition of Windows Virtual PC, visit the official Microsoft website. You can download the build that works across all operating systems.
After completing the installation, VMC files should be recognized by the system and linked to Windows Virtual PC.
Set Windows Virtual PC as the default VMC program
Setting a default program by file type in Windows
- Start by right-clicking on your VMC file and selecting the "Open With" option. From there, click "Choose another app" to continue;
- In the pop-up window, select the Windows Virtual PC application;
- Check the "Always use this application" checkbox, and then click "OK" to apply the selected application as the default for opening VMC files.
Change Default Program on Mac
- Right click or Control + left click on the desired VMC file;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- In the lower section of the window, you’ll find the "Enable" menu, with "Recommended Programs" pre-selected as the default option;
- Select "All Programs" in this menu, and then search for Windows Virtual PC. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make sure it’s the default option.
How to edit a VMC file?
Editing VMC files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit virtual machine files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated Windows Virtual Machine Configuration Format programs.
Best VMC editors in 2026
Taking the above factors into account, we have selected a list of VMC editors currently available.
| VMC Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows Virtual PC | Microsoft | Mac OS, Windows | 4.7 out of 5 (40 reviews) |
Convert to and from VMC
When a VMC file is not easy to work with, converting it to formats like VHD, VMDK, PVS or other comparable types may help.
Converting a VMC file may not fully retain all functionality, but it is generally possible to return it to the original format.
Convert VMC to other file formats
Converting Files to VMC Format
Solve problems with VMC files
While VMC files can sometimes present difficulties, most problems can be resolved quickly with minor software modifications. Check the tips below to help solve them.
Are there any techniques or tools available to repair a damaged VMC file?
Use a recovery program to open the damaged VMC file and navigate to the "Repair" menu item. Then wait for the recovery process to complete, which allows you to automatically repair corrupted virtual machine files.
What are the signs that my VMC file is damaged?
Corrupted VMC virtual machine files may show the following signs:
- Editing the archive in Windows Virtual PC is accompanied by slow performance or delays;
- File hangs or crashes in Windows Virtual PC or other programs;
- The file does not open or opens with errors;
- Unexplained increase in VMC file size;
- Working with the file triggers the display of error messages;
What factors contribute to Windows Virtual PC crash?
Windows Virtual PC crashes can be attributed to outdated software. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for Microsoft products.
Restarting your computer will solve many common problems, which is why it’s the first thing you should do before changing any settings related to the software.