MSHI File – What is .mshi file and how to open it?
MSHI File Extension
Microsoft Help Index File – file format by Microsoft
The MSHI file extension is used for a Microsoft Help Index File created by Microsoft. It contains an index of the files in a Help project and is used by the Help viewer to quickly locate and display Help content.
Definition and Purpose
MSHI (Microsoft Help Index File) is a proprietary file format created by Microsoft specifically for their Help Viewer application. It stores indexed information used for searching and navigating help content in Microsoft products, such as Microsoft Office and Windows operating systems. MSHI files enable users to quickly find relevant help topics by using keywords or phrases.
Technical Details
MSHI files are binary files that contain a hierarchical structure of help topics and their associated search terms. Each MSHI file indexes a specific set of help files, organizing topics into sections and subtopics. When a user enters a search query, the Help Viewer searches the MSHI file to identify relevant topic matches. Additionally, MSHI files can include information about the help system, such as the location of help files, version numbers, and other metadata.
Opening MSHI Files
MSHI (Microsoft Help Index File) files store help index information for various Microsoft programs. They are typically associated with software applications and provide quick access to the built-in help system. To open MSHI files, you can follow these steps:
- Associate the File with Help and Support Center: Right-click on the MSHI file and select “Open With.” Choose “Help and Support Center” from the list of options. This will associate the file type with the Help and Support Center program, which can display the help content.
- Use a Text Editor: If you do not have the Help and Support Center installed, you can open MSHI files using a text editor like Notepad or Notepad++. However, this method will only display the raw contents of the file without providing a user-friendly interface for navigation.
It’s important to note that MSHI files are typically generated by software development tools and are not typically intended to be manually opened or edited. They serve as an internal resource for the software application to access the help information when needed.
Format and Usage
MSHI files are binary files that store information used to create help files in the Microsoft Windows operating system. They contain an index of the help content, including topics, keywords, and cross-references. When users search for help in a Windows application, the MSHI file is used to locate the relevant information quickly and efficiently.
Benefits and Limitations
MSHI files provide several benefits. They enable fast and accurate search results, reducing the time it takes for users to find the help they need. Additionally, they support multiple languages, allowing users to access help in their preferred language. However, MSHI files can become large for extensive help systems, potentially impacting performance. They are also less flexible than some other help file formats, making it more challenging to customize the appearance and functionality of the help content.