How to open DMP files in Windows 10 [EASY STEPS]
- .dmp extension is associated with dump files which are automatically created files when errors and crashes occur in the system.
- Viewing them can provide useful information in order to fix the underlying issue. Third party software such as WhoCrashed or BlueScreenView are recommended.
- If you are interested in the debugging process, you can visit our other articles about dump files.
- These file types are not the only ones that are special. We gathered a large collection of File opener software to open any type of extension.
There’s a large portion of Windows system files which are not as easily accessed as some others. One of those Windows-exclusive extensions is known as DMP (.dmp) or Windows Memory Dump files.
Today, we made sure to explain the value of these files and, what is most important, the means to open them in Windows 10. If you want to access the DMP file in Windows 10, but you’re not sure how to, make sure to continue reading.
How can I access DMP files in Windows 10?
What DMP file extension stands for?
Windows Memory Dump files with the “.dmp” extension are system files stored in a binary format. If there’s an error or sudden crash of the third-party program or even system feature, these files are automatically created.
They store the details about the crash, so most of the seasoned users will utilize .dmp files to troubleshoot the affected programs.
If there’s a, say, BSOD (Blue Screen of Death), the details about the possible causes (drivers or other software are usual suspects) are to be found in the automatically-generated .dmp file.
Blue Screen of Death seems scary? Fix any BSOD errors with these amazing tools!
For obvious reasons, they are mostly named “Memory.dmp” or “Crash.dmp”, respectively. Size-wise, they might be small individually.
However, as they tend to pile up over time, DMP files can take a lot of storage space when bundled. So, you can clean them up with ease with the Disk Cleanup utility.
How to open DMP files in Windows 10?
Now, opening these files isn’t exactly simple as Windows 10 doesn’t offer a built-in tool. There’s a good reason for this as rarely a common user will want to access them in the first place.
However, there are a few third-party utility tools which should enable you to open and read DMP files. They might look outdated, but in this case, we prioritise efficiency over the looks.
The first application is WhoCrashed, a dump file analyzer. This tool requires installation, but it’s fairly usable and has all the features you’ll need. You can even simulate the system crash (do this with caution) with certain parameters.
The second application is BlueScreenView. An oldtimer which supports every Windows iteration to date. You should have an easy time using it.
It is a portable small-sized application so it doesn’t require installation. Once you get it, just extract it and run the EXE file. However, we’re rushing. Firstly, you need to let the system creating the dump files readable by the third-party software.
That should do it. In case you have alternative ways to open and read DMP files, make sure to tell us in the comment section below. We’ll be glad hearing from you.
If you’re interested in how to delete system error memory dump files in Windows 10, check out this awesome guide. Also, if you want to fix a corrupted memory dump effectively, follow the simple steps from this useful guide.
If you have any other questions, leave them there as well.
FAQ: Learn more about dump files
- Where does Windows 10 store dump files?
C:Windowsmemory.dmp
is the default location. Or as a general rule in %SystemRoot%memory.dmp if you have a custom install. You can also find minidumps in the Minidump folder in the same place.
- Is it safe to delete system memory dump files?
Yes, deleting these files will have no negative effect on your computer. They are mainly used for debugging purposes. You might want to keep them in case of errors or bugs. They will provide information as to who is responsible for a crash or an error message.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in April 2018 and has been since revamped and updated in April 2020 for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.