Opening AVHD Files

The AVHD file type is primarily associated with Hyper-V.

AVHDFile Extension AVHD
File extension: AVHD
File type:  snapshot

What is an AVHD file?

AVHD files mostly belong to Hyper-V by Microsoft. An AVHD file is an automatically managed virtual hard disk image created by Hyper-V system virtualization software. Each AVHD file for a Hyper-V virtual machine has a parent VHD (virtual hard disk) file for which it serves as a snapshot. The current state of a virtual machine and virtual hard disk are saved to an AVHD file which Hyper-V may use to restore a previous version of a virtual machine should the need arise. These files are saved in the same folder as VHD files.

How to open AVHD files

You need a suitable software like Hyper-V to open an AVHD file. You need a suitable software like Hyper-V from Microsoft to open an AVHD file. Without proper software you will receive a Windows message "How do you want to open this file?" or "Windows cannot open this file" or a similar Mac/iPhone/Android alert. If you cannot open your AVHD file correctly, try to right-click or long-press the file. Then click "Open with" and choose an application. You can also display a AVHD file directly in the browser:. Just drag the file onto this browser window and drop it.

Online AVHD Text Viewer

Choose your .avhd file to analyze

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Trouble Opening a .AVHD File? These Steps Will Help

AVHD files can come from different programs and aren't universally openable.

  1. Identify the Source: If received from an IT administrator, it is likely a Microsoft Hyper-V snapshot disk image. If from a video editor, it may be an AutoVision HD file.
  2. Check the Header: Open the file in a hex viewer to inspect its first bytes.
    • cxsparse indicates a Hyper-V virtual disk.
    • Readable XML suggests a configuration file.
    • Random binary data means a proprietary disk image.
  3. Use the Original Software: The original program is usually required. Try Microsoft Hyper-V Manager, Windows Disk Management, or 7-Zip. If uncertain, ask the sender.
  4. Use this Webpage: Drag and drop your file onto this page to detect its format, extract readable metadata, and preview contents when possible.

Technical Data for AVHD File Extension

File classification:
Disk Image
Related files:

an avhd snapshot is a special file format by Microsoft and should only be edited and saved with the appropriate software.

How to solve problems with AVHD files

  • Associate the AVHD file extension with the correct application.
  • Update your software that should actually open snapshots. Because only the current version supports the latest AVHD file format. Search, therefore, e.g. on the Microsoft manufacturer website after an available Hyper-V update.
  • To make sure that your AVHD file is not corrupted or virus-infected, get the file again and scan it with Google's virustotal.com.
  • Click here to open your .AVHD file online - secure, fast, and no downloads needed.
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