File Extension Database

Open MDE File

MDE files are generally associated with Microsoft Access, a popular database management system. These files are created when Access users compile their database into a locked format, primarily to protect its design from being tampered with or copied. However, there are other formats and methods associated with the MDE file extension. In this article, we will explore possible formats and ways to open and use MDE files, along with useful links to relevant websites to further expand your understanding of this file extension.

Microsoft Access MDE Files

Microsoft Access uses MDE files to create a compiled and locked version of a database application. This helps in protecting the application design and preventing unauthorized modifications or copies. The MDE format is aimed at allowing users to distribute their applications without exposing the original MDB or ACCDB file. To create an MDE file in Microsoft Access, you simply need to save a copy of your Access database as an MDE file. You can find more information about this process on the Microsoft Access documentation page.

To open and use an MDE file in Microsoft Access, you need to have the same version of Access that was used to create the MDE file, as the file format is not backward compatible. For example, if the MDE file was created using Access 2010, you will need Access 2010 or a newer version to open the file. You can learn more about opening MDE files in Microsoft Access by visiting this Microsoft support page.

Other MDE File Formats

Although the primary use for MDE file extensions is associated with Microsoft Access, there are other formats related to the MDE file extension. One such example is the "Menu Definition Enhanced" format, which is connected with a now-obsolete software program called 4DOS. This program, a command-line interpreter, used MDE files to store information about how menus were displayed. Opening and using this type of MDE file would likely require specialized legacy software or emulators configured to run 4DOS.

MDE File Important Information

When working with MDE files, it's important to remember that these files are locked and cannot be modified or edited like their original MDB or ACCDB counterparts. The primary purpose of the MDE file is to protect the original design and prevent unauthorized access or modifications. Consequently, you should always keep a backup of the original Access database file in its editable format in case any future changes need to be made.

In conclusion, MDE files are mostly associated with Microsoft Access and are instrumental in protecting the design of database applications. Various methods exist for opening and using MDE files, with the primary being through Microsoft Access. Always keep in mind the importance of retaining an editable version of your Access database file for any future modifications that may be necessary. By understanding the uses and limitations of MDE files, you can work with them more effectively to accomplish your goals.

Typical MDE application file locations:

C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office12\MSACCESS.EXE /NOSTARTUP "%1" %2 %3 %4 %5 %6 %7 %8 %9
"C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office14\MSACCESS.EXE" /NOSTARTUP "%1" %2 %3 %4 %5 %6 %7 %8 %9

Typical MDE mime types:

application/msaccess

Frequently used application names to open MDE files:

Microsoft Office
Microsoft Office - Office14

Frequently associated Windows objects:

Access.MDEFile.12
Access.MDEFile.14

How Can I Open MDE File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open MDE file is to find a MDE file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a MDE file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open MDE file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as MDE file opener then try to search online for "MDE viewer", "application to open MDE file" or "open MDE file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open MDE file

How Can I Open MDE File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a MDE file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a MDE file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with MDE file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as MDE file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open MDE file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open MDE file then try to search for "MDE viewer", "application to open MDE file" or "read MDE file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read MDE file

How Can I Open MDE File on Android

If you downloaded a MDE file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded MDE file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "MDE".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "MDE viewer", "MDE file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open MDE File on iPhone or iPad

To open MDE File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the MDE file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "MDE". This way you can find apps which can open MDE files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "MDE viewer" or "MDE file" online in your favorite search engine.

Populating this website with information and maintaining it is an ongoing process. We always welcome feedback and questions that can be submitted by visiting Contact Us page. However since there are many users visiting this website and because our team is quite small we may not be able to follow up personally on every request. Thank you for your understanding.