VMSS File Extension
VMware Suspended State Format
- File Type vmss
- Developer VMware
- Popularity
- Application VMware Workstation
- Category Virtual Machine Files
What is a VMSS file?
The VMSS file extension is linked to VMware Suspended State Format and belongs to the Virtual Machine Files category, which includes 56 files.
With the creation of the VMware Suspended State Format (VMSS), VMware introduced file format along with 9 programs built for their use.
VMSS files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows. You can open a VMSS file using one of 2 programs, for example VMware Workstation and VMware vSphere.
How to open a VMSS file?
The most common reason why a VMSS 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.
VMware Workstation and VMware vSphere are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with VMSS files. To install the most up-to-date edition of VMware Workstation, visit the official VMware website. You can download the build that works across all operating systems.
After completing the installation, VMSS files should be recognized by the system and linked to VMware Workstation.
Set VMware Workstation as the default VMSS program
Setting a default program by file type in Windows
- Start by right-clicking on your VMSS file and selecting the "Open With" option. From there, click "Choose another app" to continue;
- In the pop-up window, select the VMware Workstation application;
- Check the "Always use this application" checkbox, and then click "OK" to apply the selected application as the default for opening VMSS files.
Change Default Program on Mac
- Right click or Control + left click on the desired VMSS 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 VMware Workstation. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make sure it’s the default option.
How to edit a VMSS file?
Editing VMSS files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit virtual machine files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated VMware Suspended State Format programs.
Best VMSS editors in 2026
Taking the above factors into account, we have selected a list of VMSS editors currently available.
| VMSS Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| VMware Workstation | VMware | Windows | 4.3 out of 5 (42 reviews) |
| VMware vSphere | VMware | Windows | 4.2 out of 5 (42 reviews) |
Solve problems with VMSS files
While VMSS 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 VMSS file?
Use a recovery program to open the damaged VMSS 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 VMSS file is damaged?
Corrupted VMSS virtual machine files may show the following signs:
- Editing the archive in VMware Workstation is accompanied by slow performance or delays;
- File hangs or crashes in VMware Workstation or other programs;
- The file does not open or opens with errors;
- Unexplained increase in VMSS file size;
- Working with the file triggers the display of error messages;
What factors contribute to VMware Workstation crash?
VMware Workstation crashes can be attributed to outdated software. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for VMware 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.