WSH File Extension

WSH file icon

Windows Script Host Settings

What is a WSH file?

The WSH file extension is linked to Windows Script Host Settings and belongs to the categories of Executable Files, Text Files, Developer Files, Dangerous Files and Blocked Email Attachment Files, which include 1731 files.

The Windows Script Host Settings (WSH) was developed by Microsoft, which created file format and 242 programs to work with them.

WSH files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows. To open a WSH file, you can choose from 8 programs such as Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Windows 8 and Microsoft Windows Vista.

How to open a WSH file?

If you cannot open a WSH 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.

Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Windows 8 and Microsoft Windows Vista are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with WSH files. To set up the newest version of Microsoft Windows on your device, simply go to the official Microsoft website. There you can download the edition compatible with every operating system.

Once installed, Microsoft Windows will be set as the default program, and WSH files will open automatically.

Set Microsoft Windows to open WSH by default

Setting a default program by file type in Windows

  1. Right click on your WSH file, then select "Open with" and click "Choose another application";
  2. Find the Microsoft Windows application in the pop-up window and select it as your preferred program;
  3. Select the "Always use this application" check box and click "OK" to save your selection as the default application for opening WSH files.

Change default apps on Mac

  1. Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired WSH file to access the file’s context menu;
  2. Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
  3. At the bottom of the window, find the "Enable" menu, where "Recommended Programs" is already selected by default;
  4. Within this menu, select "All Programs" and then locate Microsoft Windows. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default program.

How to edit a WSH file?

Editing WSH files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit executable files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated Windows Script Host Settings programs.

Best WSH editors in 2026

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

WSH Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
Sublime TextSublime HQ PtyWindows, Mac OS, Linux4.6 out of 5 (39 reviews)
Windows NotepadMicrosoftWindows4.2 out of 5 (37 reviews)

Easy WSH Troubleshooting

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

What are the steps to repair a damaged WSH file?

Open the corrupted WSH file in a recovery program and select the "Repair" menu item. Please be patient while the recovery process completes, which will automatically restore the damaged executable files.

How do I know if my WSH file is corrupted?

Corrupted WSH executable files may show the following signs:

  • Attempts to open the file result in errors or failed results;
  • Editing the archive in Sublime Text is accompanied by slow performance or delays;
  • The file causes Microsoft Windows or other programs to hang or crash during operation;
  • Unexplained increase in WSH file size;
  • Error messages appear while working with the file;

What are the reasons behind Microsoft Windows crash?

The likely cause of Microsoft Windows crashing is lack of software updates. Install the latest updates available for Microsoft products.

Restarting your computer is often an effective solution to resolve various common problems. Therefore, it is recommended to do so before making any changes to the software configuration.