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Basic information about LNK file

When there is a problem with opening files with the file extension LNK(*.LNK or *.lnk), 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 LNK file yourself.

There are 4 file types using the LNK file extension in our database. In the further part of this page, you will find detail information about all the LNK file with their brief description and a list of programs that support LNK file sorted by operating systems. The table below provides useful information about the LNK file extension. It answers questions such as:
  • What is the LNK file?
  • How to open a LNK file?
  • What programs do I need to open a LNK file?
  • What programs help to create and edit a LNK file?
  • How to convert LNK files to another file format?
  • How to convert another files to LNK file format?


1.Detail information about LNK file extension: Windows File Shortcut

File type Windows File Shortcut Category System Files
Developer Microsoft File format Binary
Description LNK file is a Windows File Shortcut developed by Microsoft. An LNK file is a shortcut or "link" used by Windows as a reference to an original file, similar to an alias on the Macintosh platform. It contains the shortcut target type, location, and filename as well as the program that opens the target file and an optional shortcut key. The file can be created in Windows by right-clicking a file and then selecting "Create Shortcut."
Software programs that will open, edit or convert LNK files

Windows
Microsoft Windows
Flint LinkInfo
TZWorks lp
lnkedit
HxD

macOS
Parallels Desktop for Mac with Windows installed
CodeWeavers CrossOver
TZWorks lp

Linux
CodeWeavers CrossOver
TZWorks lp


2.Detail information about LNK file extension: Linker Response File

File type Linker Response File Category Developer Files
Developer N/A File format N/A
Description LNK file is a Linker Response File.
Software programs that will open, edit or convert LNK files


3.Detail information about LNK file extension: Advanced Revelation Database

File type Advanced Revelation Database Category Database Files
Developer N/A File format N/A
Description LNK file is a Advanced Revelation Database.
Software programs that will open, edit or convert LNK files

Windows
OpenInsight


4.Detail information about LNK file extension: Playlist File

File type Playlist File Category Settings Files
Developer N/A File format N/A
Description LNK file is a Playlist File.
Software programs that will open, edit or convert LNK files

Windows
KMPlayer



How to convert LNK files to another file format?

There are 4 records in our database eligible for LNK files to another file format conversion. If you want to achieve LNK to another files conversion, you may use the option.



Can't open a LNK 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.LNK”。

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 LNK extension without any issue.


Where I can download the application that support LNK 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 LNK 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 LNK file?

The reasons for the lack of the ability to open a LNK 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 LNK file. If there is still something wrong, you might want to check:

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

If the LNK 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.