What Opens XSD?

XSD files define elements in an XML document.

An XML Schema Definition file uses the extension XSD. XSD files are referenced by XML (Extensible Markup Language) documents and define their structure. XSD files are text-based and can be easily opened by an XML editing program or text editor.

Programs for XSD Files

Several Windows programs open XSD files including Microsoft Visual Studio 2010, Microsoft XML Notepad and Altova XML Spy. Macintosh programs such as ElfData XML Editor and Bare Bones BBEdit open XSD files. If none of these programs are available, XSD files may be opened with any text editor.

How to Open an XSD File

Double-click the XSD file and allow the computer to choose a default program to open the file. If the program required is not installed, launch a text editor, such as Notepad, and open the XSD file.

Function of XSD Files

XSD files dictate the framework of an XML document. The elements, attributes and data of the XML document are all controlled by the XSD file. XML Schema Definition files are W3C recommended.

References

• File Extensions Resource: XSD Files
• W3 Schools: Introduction to XML Schema
• W3C.org: Schema