How to Open JSON Files in Windows

Opening JSON Files in Windows may sound like a challenging task, unless you know the format, but it is simple with the proper tools. JavaScript Object Notation or JSON is a lightweight data format that is typically used to store and transfer information. This may save time whether you are a developer, and you are debugging some code or you were merely a person and came across a .json file, knowing how to get to the contents of the file. Here we will go through some of the ways we can open and look at JSON files in Windows, both through basic built-in tools and more sophisticated ones.

Table of Contents

What is a JSON File?

We should briefly discuss the basics, before getting down to the steps. A JSON file is a text file that provides structured data that is typically utilized in web development, APIs, and configuration options. It is not supposed to be run as a program but to be read or edited as text. Windows lacks a default viewer of JSON files that would display them in a nice format, so it falls to default into Notepad, which may be ugly with large files. This is why it will be reasonable to employ special tools.

4 Methods to Open JSON Files in Windows

Method 1: Use Notepad or WordPad

The simplest way? Use what you have on your computer. Notepad is installed on all versions of windows, including Windows 10 and Windows 11. It can open JSON files fast but does not have fancy formatting.

Here’s how you do it:

Right-click the JSON file in File Explorer.
Select “Open with” and choose Notepad. If it’s not listed, click “Choose another app” and pick it from there.
The file opens as plain text. You see the data, but it might look messy without indentation.

WordPad works similarly but adds basic formatting. Just follow the same steps and select WordPad instead. Pro tip: Save changes as .json to avoid corrupting the file.

WordPad has the same functionality, with added elementary formatting. Simply use the same procedure and use WordPad instead.

Pro tip: Be mindful of making changes in form of .json to prevent corruption of the file.

Method 2: Open with a Web Browser

Browsers such as Chrome or Edge do not have any problem with JSON files. They also tend to put the data in automatic format, and it is easy to read. This type is bright when you only want to watch, but not to edit.

Try these steps:

Right-click your JSON file.
Choose “Open with” and select your browser (Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, or Firefox).
The browser displays the content in a tree-like structure. Expand sections to explore nested data.

If the file is large, the browser might lag. But for quick checks, it’s perfect. Remember, browsers don’t let you edit directly; copy the text to an editor if needed.

Method 3: Use a Dedicated Text Editor

For more features, grab a free text editor like Notepad++ or Visual Studio Code. These tools highlight syntax and collapse sections, which help when dealing with complex JSON.

First, download Notepad++ from its official site. Install it, then:

Right-click the JSON file.
Open with Notepad++.
Enjoy color-coded keys and values. Use the search function to find specific data.

Visual Studio Code takes it further. Microsoft offers it for free. After installation:

Open VS Code.
Drag your JSON file into the window or use File > Open.
Install the JSON extension if prompted for better formatting.

These editors make opening JSON files in Windows feel professional without the hassle.

Method 4: Online Tools for Quick Views

Sometimes you do not wish to install anything. In seconds online viewers allow you to upload and view your JSON file. Such sites as JSON Formatter or JSON Viewer are perfect.

Drag and drop your file, and it is formatted in a nice way. But be careful with sensitive information; do not post personal information. This is not the best in editing, but it comes in handy when you are on the go.

Tips for Associating JSON Files with a Default Program

To make opening JSON files faster in the future, set a default app.

Right-click the file and choose “Properties.”
Under the “General” tab, click “Change” next to “Opens with.”
Select your preferred program, like VS Code or Notepad++.
Click “Apply” to save.

This way, double-clicking any JSON file will open it automatically in your chosen tool.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Ran into problems? You’re not alone. If the file won’t open, check its extension. Make sure it’s .json, not something else. Corrupted files might need repair tools like online validators.

Windows might associate JSON with another program. To fix that:

Right-click the file.
Go to Properties > General tab.
Click “Change” next to “Opens with” and select your preferred app.

Large files? They can crash basic editors. Split them or use a robust tool like VS Code.

FAQs

Can I open a JSON file in Excel?

Yes, but it’s not direct. Import it via Data > From File > From JSON. Excel converts it to a table, useful for analysis.

What if my JSON file is too big for Notepad?

Switch to Notepad++ or VS Code. They handle larger files better without freezing.

Is there a built-in JSON editor in Windows?

No, but PowerShell can view JSON. Type Get-Content file.json | ConvertFrom-Json in PowerShell for a structured output.

How do I validate a JSON file?

Use online tools like JSONLint. Paste your content, and it checks for errors.

Conclusion

By understanding how to open JSON files in windows, you will be able to do what you want to do with the data files with ease, either using simple in-built programs like the Notepad tool or using more advanced browsers or using advanced editors like the Visual Studio Code. With such techniques at your fingertips, you will find it simple to go through the contents of the JSON files quickly without stumbling in the common mistakes and enhance your productivity in the development or day-to-day tasks. In case you hit some snag, follow the advice of troubleshooting or frequently asked questions above to resolve your issues in a couple of seconds. Enjoy exploring the file!