How to open .BMP files on Windows
To open .BMP files on Windows, right-click the .bmp file and choose open with..
Step-by-step instructions
- Right-click the .BMP file and choose Open with.
- Select a trusted Windows app that supports .BMP files.
Recommended software
- Default Photos app
- Browser preview
- GIMP
Alternative methods
- Open .BMP in a browser-based viewer if desktop apps fail.
- Try opening .BMP on Windows with a secondary app to rule out app-specific issues.
- Convert .BMP only with trusted tools when direct opening is not possible.
Common issues
.BMP file does not open
This usually means the required app is missing or the .BMP file is incomplete.
- Install or update a compatible application.
- Verify the file came from a trusted source and was fully downloaded.
- Try opening the file in an alternative app on another platform.
Security note
Only open .BMP files from trusted senders.