How to Fix Cannot Open Fax Files After a Computer Update
Question details
The user is unable to open digital fax files after a recent computer system update.
- Product
- PDF Viewer
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to access and view digital fax documents following a system update.
- Observed behavior
- The fax documents fail to open, and the specific application or error message involved is initially unknown.
Check the file extension of your fax document (such as .pdf or .tiff) by viewing its properties to determine which software is required to open it.
Identify the File Format and Assign a Default Application
Computer updates can sometimes reset default application associations. Reassigning the correct app to your fax files will resolve the issue.
Since digital faxes are typically saved as PDF or TIFF files, your computer needs to know which program to use. If a recent update removed this association, you will need to manually set it again.
Right-click on the fax file that will not open and select 'Properties' on Windows (or 'Get Info' on Mac) to locate the 'Type of file' extension.
Right-click the fax file again, hover over 'Open with', and choose 'Choose another app'.
Select a suitable application from the list (such as a PDF Reader for .pdf files), check the box that says 'Always use this app to open files', and click 'OK'.
Record the Exact Error Message for Troubleshooting
If assigning a default application does not work, identifying the specific error message will help determine if the file is corrupted or if the software requires an update.
Open PDF Fax Files Easily with WPS Office
If a system update disrupted your default PDF viewer, WPS Office provides a reliable, fast, and feature-rich environment to open, read, and annotate your digital fax documents.
- 1. Download the software: Download and install WPS Office on your computer from the official website.
- 2. Launch the PDF reader: Open WPS Office and click on the 'PDF' tab from the home screen.
- 3. Open your fax file: Click 'Open' and browse your computer directories to select the fax document you wish to view.
- 4. Set as default: Alternatively, right-click your PDF fax file, select 'Open with', choose WPS Office, and set it as your default PDF reader for uninterrupted future access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common file formats for digital faxes?
Digital faxes are typically saved as PDF (.pdf) or TIFF (.tif/.tiff) image files. Knowing the file extension helps you select the correct software to view the document.
Why did a Windows or Mac update stop my files from opening?
System updates sometimes reset your default app settings to factory defaults or cause compatibility issues with outdated software, requiring you to manually reassign the preferred application for specific file types.
How can I open a TIFF format fax file?
TIFF files are image files rather than document files. You can open them using built-in operating system tools like Windows Photo Viewer, Apple Preview, or dedicated image editing software.
