Basic information about HDS file

When there is a problem with opening files with the file extension HDS（*.HDS or *.hds）, you do not need a computer expert. In most cases, using the helpful suggestions of experts contained in our website as well as appropriate programs, you can solve the problem with the HDS file yourself.

There are 2 file types using the HDS file extension in our database. In the further part of this page, you will find detail information about all the HDS file with their brief description and a list of programs that support HDS file sorted by operating systems. The table below provides useful information about the HDS file extension. It answers questions such as:
  • What is the HDS file?
  • How to open a HDS file?
  • What programs do I need to open a HDS file?
  • What programs help to create and edit a HDS file?
  • How to convert HDS files to another file format?
  • How to convert another files to HDS file format?


1.Detail information about HDS file extension: Parallels Desktop Hard Disk File

File type Parallels Desktop Hard Disk File Category Disk Image Files
Developer Parallels File format Binary
Description HDS file is a Parallels Desktop Hard Disk File developed by Parallels. An HDS file is a partial or whole hard disk created by Parallels Desktop virtualization software. It stores the contents of a virtual machine's hard drive and is mounted by Parallels when the VM is opened. HDS files may be one of multiple HDS files that comprise the total hard drive.
Software programs that will open, edit or convert HDS files

macOS		 Parallels Desktop 13 for Mac


2.Detail information about HDS file extension: Microsoft PlayReady Data File

File type Microsoft PlayReady Data File Category Data Files
Developer Microsoft File format Binary
Description HDS file is a Microsoft PlayReady Data File developed by Microsoft.
Software programs that will open, edit or convert HDS files

Windows		 Microsoft PlayReady
Microsoft Windows
Windows Media Player



How to convert HDS files to another file format?

There are 1 records in our database eligible for HDS files to another file format conversion. If you want to achieve HDS to another files conversion, you may use the option.

HDS to VDI


Can't open a HDS file?

When you click a file to open it, operating system examines the filename extension. If operating system recognizes the filename extension, it opens the file in the program that is associated with that filename extension. When operating system does not recognize a filename extension, you receive the following message:

”Can't open this file: example.HDS”。

To open this file, you install one of the applications from the list of software programs that you found here, you should be able to open, edit or convert the file with the HDS extension without any issue.


Where I can download the application that support HDS file?

If you do not know where you can download the application from our list, click on the link (which is the name of the program), you will find more information there on the location where to download the required application. Most often they are the websites of software manufacturers.


How to change file associations?

  • Right-click a file with the extension whose association you want to change, and then click "Open With".
  • In the "Open With" dialog box, click the program whith which you want the file to open, or click "Browse" to locate the program that you want.
  • Select the ”Always use the selected program to open this kind of file” check box.


Can I change the extension of HDS files?

Changing the filename extension of a file is not a good idea. When you change a file's extension, you change the way programs on your computer read/open the file. The problem is, changing the file extension does not change the file format. Select a software program from our list and install it on your computer. If the file has not opened correctly, you have to look for a different software program from our list. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.


What else may cause problems width open a HDS file?

The reasons for the lack of the ability to open a HDS file on your computer may be at least several. The easiest thing is to find a suitable application installed on your computer, which will open a HDS file. If there is still something wrong, you might want to check:

  • Whether the HDS file is damaged.
  • Whether the HDS file is incorrectly linked in the registry entries.
  • Whether the HDS file extension has been accidentally removed from the Windows registry.
  • Whether the installation of an application that supports the HDS file format is incompletely.
  • Whether the HDS file is infected.
  • Whether the drivers of the equipment used for opening a HDS file are up to date.
  • Whether your computer has enough hardware resources to open a HDS file.

If the HDS file still not working with your software after eliminating the above shortcomings? That means that the problem is more complex and requires the help of a specialist.