Unable to Open RVT File with the Correct Version of Revit by Double-Clicking
Issue: When you double-click an RVT file, the project either fails to open or opens in the wrong version of Revit. Additionally, the RVT file icon does not display the Revit logo.
Environment: Windows operating system
Cause: The file association for RVT files in Windows is linked to an incorrect or already running program.
Solution:
Run Revit as an Administrator
Follow these steps to change the Windows file association to the correct Revit version. This applies to Windows Vista, 7, 8, and 10.
- Right-click the Revit desktop shortcut.
- Select Run as administrator. This allows Revit to update registry entries as needed.
Set Revit to Always Run as Administrator:
- Right-click the Revit shortcut again.
- Select Properties.
- Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Check Run this program as an administrator.
- Click Apply and then OK to confirm.
Modify Registry Entries for RVT Files
Warning: Incorrect changes to the Windows registry can cause serious issues, potentially making your operating system unusable. Microsoft provides detailed information and precautions regarding the registry in the Microsoft Knowledge Base. Always back up the registry and important system files such as system.dat and user.dat before making any changes.
To edit the registry safely, follow these steps:
- Open the Registry Editor by selecting Start > Run, then typing
regeditand pressing Enter. - Navigate to the following key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREClassesRevit.ProjectShellOpenCommand - Double-click the (Default) value.
- Change the value data to the correct path of the desired Revit executable, enclosed in quotation marks. Do not modify any numerical data or the DDE section.
- Click OK to save the change.
- Close the Registry Editor.
After completing these steps, double-click the RVT file again. If the problem persists, restart your computer.
Related Topics
Creating, Accessing, Transferring, and Repairing Revit Central Files
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