.JSON file extension
To open .JSON files on Windows, open with vs code, notepad++, or any text editor..
.json files contain structured text data. Open them with code editors, browsers, or data tooling.
Open on your device
Choose your operating system for a dedicated step-by-step opening guide.
How to open .JSON files
Use these platform-specific instructions to open .JSON files safely.
Windows
- Open with VS Code, Notepad++, or any text editor.
- Use browser JSON viewers for formatted inspection.
Mac
- Open with VS Code, TextEdit (plain text), or terminal tools.
Linux
- Open with any text editor or use jq for CLI parsing.
- Validate syntax with jq . filename.json.
iOS
- Open with developer text editor apps.
- Use Files app preview for quick checks.
Android
- Open with code editor apps.
- Use JSON formatter tools to improve readability.
Can't open this file?
These are the most common causes and fixes when .JSON files fail to open.
Common reasons
- Unexpected token parse error
Fix steps
- Validate with a JSON linter.
- Remove trailing commas.
- Ensure property names are quoted.
OS-specific troubleshooting
What is a .JSON file?
JSON represents objects and arrays using key-value syntax. It is human-readable and widely used for web services and app configs.
Common MIME types: application/json, text/json
Known aliases: .jsn
Common .JSON issues
Unexpected token parse error
JSON syntax is strict and does not allow comments or trailing commas.
- Validate with a JSON linter.
- Remove trailing commas.
- Ensure property names are quoted.
Security notes
- Never execute untrusted JSON as code.
- Validate schema before ingesting external JSON in production systems.
FAQ
Can JSON include comments?
Standard JSON does not support comments.
How do I pretty-print JSON?
Use formatter tools or jq to format JSON with indentation.
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