File Extension Library


.ESD File Extension

  • Developer by: Microsoft
  • Category: Misc Files
  • Format: Binary

What are .ESD files and how to open them?

Can't open .ESD file? Are you wondering what it contains? On our site we will explain to you what this file is, what it is used for and what software opens the .ESD file.

What is a .ESD file extension?

.ESD file extension is created by Microsoft. .ESD has been classified as Misc Files. The format of .ESD file is Binary.

.ESD is Windows Electronic Software Download File

File used by Microsoft's Electronic Software Download (ESD) software, a technology that is used for downloading purchased Microsoft products; saves the downloaded software in an encrypted format (an encrypted .WIM file); used for installing and upgrading purchased software.

ESD files are sometimes seen when upgrading to Windows 7 or Windows 8 using the Microsoft Upgrade Assistant or when purchasing the software through the Microsoft online store.

A common directory to find downloaded ESD files is:

C:\Users\[user]\AppData\Local\Microsoft\WebSetup\Download\

Common ESD Filenames

WinPayload.esd - The file downloaded when purchasing and installing Windows 8 using Microsoft's upgrade assistant.

How to fix problems with .ESD files

  1. You need to update the application that you normally use to open .ESD files. Only the latest version of the software supports the current .ESD file format
  2. You need to check the .ESD file for viruses. To do this, you need to scan it with a popular antivirus (Norton, Nod32, Kaspersky, Dr.Web, etc.)