VMSN File Extension

VMware Snapshot State Format

File Type vmsn
Developer VMware
Popularity
4.5 (34 votes)
Application VMware Workstation
Category Virtual Machine Files
Format Binary

What is a VMSN file?

Files with the VMSN extension are specifically tied to VMware Snapshot State Format, a Virtual Machine Files type, and there are 56 files in this category.

VMware, the developer of the VMware Snapshot State Format (VMSN), has released file format and 9 programs designed to handle them.

VMSN files are supported by Windows. There are 2 programs available to open a VMSN file, including popular tools like VMware Workstation and VMware vSphere.

Programs that support VMSN files

Windows ²

Windows

How to open a VMSN file?

If you are having trouble opening a VMSN file, it usually means the right software is not installed. Choose a program from the list that matches your operating system. Next, visit the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it on your device.

VMware Workstation and VMware vSphere stand out as the preferred programs to manage VMSN files effectively. To get the latest version of VMware Workstation, open the VMware website where a universal installer for all operating systems is available.

Once installed, VMware Workstation will be set as the default program, and VMSN files will open automatically.

Set VMware Workstation as the default VMSN application

Change the default app that opens a file on Mac

Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired VMSN file to open a menu where you can choose from multiple actions;
Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
At the bottom of the window, find the "Enable" menu, where "Recommended Programs" is already selected by default;
Within this menu, select "All Programs" and then locate VMware Workstation. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default program.

Set default programs for Windows

To get started, right-click your VMSN file, then choose "Open With" and select "Choose Another Application" from the context menu;
From the options listed in the pop-up window, specifically choose VMware Workstation as the application to handle your VMSN file;
Be sure to check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK" to save your preference.

Troubleshooting guide for VMSN file complications

Certain problems with VMSN files can be conveniently fixed with small software tweaks. Here are some helpful tips to address them.

How can I determine if my VMSN file is damaged?

VMSN virtual machine files that have become corrupted may display one or more of the following symptoms:

The file causes VMware Workstation or other software to hang or crash during various operations;
Error notifications appear during file manipulation;
The file encounters problems during the opening process or shows error indications;
An unexplained increase in the size of the VMSN file;
The file exhibits poor performance during editing operations in VMware Workstation;

Why does VMware Workstation quit or crash unexpectedly?

Insufficient software updates are a likely cause of VMware Workstation crashes. Be sure to install the latest updates for VMware 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.

What methods can be used to repair a damaged VMSN file?

Start a data recovery program and open the damaged VMSN file. Then, choose the "Repair" option from the menu. Wait for the recovery process to finish as it will automatically restore the damaged virtual machine files.

How to edit a VMSN file?

To make changes to VMSN files, you need specialized software that allows both opening and editing the virtual machine files. Online VMSN editors offer fewer capabilities than applications optimized for VMware Snapshot State Format.

Best VMSN editors 2026

Considering the mentioned criteria, we have compiled a list of VMSN editors that may suit your needs.

VMSN Editor Software	Developer	Platforms	Overall Rating
VMware Workstation	VMware	Windows	4.8 out of 5 (39 reviews)
VMware vSphere	VMware	Windows	4.2 out of 5 (40 reviews)

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