VHDX File – What is .vhdx file and how to open it?
VHDX File Extension
Windows 8 Virtual Hard Drive File – file format by Microsoft
The VHDX file extension is associated with Windows 8 Virtual Hard Drive File, developed by Microsoft. It is a virtual hard disk format used to create and manage virtual machines or virtual hard disks in a virtual environment.
Understanding VHDX Files: A Comprehensive Overview
A VHDX file is a virtual hard disk format developed by Microsoft for use with its virtualization technology. It is an updated version of the VHD (Virtual Hard Disk) format and offers several enhancements, including larger disk capacity, support for advanced disk features, and improved performance. VHDX files can be used to create virtual machines (VMs) and store virtualized operating systems, applications, and data. They are typically used in conjunction with virtualization software such as Hyper-V.
VHDX files are dynamic by default, meaning they only occupy the amount of space required for the data they contain. This makes them efficient for storing virtual machines that are not fully utilized. VHDX files also support multiple snapshots, which allow users to capture the state of a virtual machine at a specific point in time and revert back to it if necessary. Additionally, VHDX files can be encrypted using the BitLocker feature, providing an extra layer of security for sensitive data.
Method 1: Using Windows Disk Management
- Right-click the Start button and select “Disk Management.”
- In the Disk Management window, locate the VHDX file. It will appear as an offline virtual disk.
- Right-click the VHDX file and select “Attach VHDX.”
- Select the drive letter you want to assign to the virtual disk and click “OK.”
- The VHDX file will be mounted as a logical drive in Windows Explorer.
Method 2: Using Third-Party Software
Several third-party software applications can open VHDX files. Some popular options include:
- Oracle VM VirtualBox
- VMware Workstation
- Parallels Desktop
- Acronis True Image
To open a VHDX file using third-party software, follow the steps provided by the software vendor. Typically, you will need to import the VHDX file into the virtual machine software and then start the virtual machine. The VHDX file will be mounted as a virtual drive within the virtual machine.
VHDX File: Definition and Features
The .VHDX file extension signifies a Windows 8 Virtual Hard Drive file, an advanced virtualization format developed by Microsoft. It serves as a virtual hard disk, enabling the storage and emulation of an operating system and its applications within a virtual machine. VHDX files offer several advantages over traditional VHD (Virtual Hard Disk) files.
Key Advantages of VHDX Files
Compared to VHD files, VHDX files excel in several aspects. Firstly, they support larger capacities, accommodating up to 64 terabytes in size, making them suitable for demanding applications. Secondly, VHDX files utilize a flexible disk format, enabling them to efficiently allocate and manage storage space as needed. Additionally, they leverage advanced features such as block-level checksums for improved data integrity and dynamic resizing for efficient scaling of virtual machine resources.