What is a .AVHD file?
An .AVHD file is a type of file used by Hyper-V, which is a feature for creating and managing virtual computers within Microsoft Windows Server. This file specifically stores a "snapshot" of a virtual machine at a particular moment. A snapshot captures everything about the virtual machine's state, such as what programs were running and what data was being used, so that you can return to that state later if needed.
The .AVHD file works together with a .VHD file, which is the main file representing the virtual hard disk of the virtual machine. The .VHD file contains the original setup and data of the virtual hard disk, while the .AVHD file records any changes made to the virtual disk after the snapshot was taken. This setup allows users to either continue with the updated state stored in the .AVHD file or revert back to the original state in the .VHD file.
These files are usually stored in the same folder and can be quite large, depending on the amount of data and changes involved.
To open an .AVHD file, you would typically use Microsoft Windows Server 2022, as it includes the Hyper-V feature needed to handle such files. This program allows you to manage and restore the states of virtual machines using the snapshots saved in .AVHD files.
Note: .AVHD files are also known as Snapshot Differencing Disk files because they store the differences from the original virtual hard disk.
Verification
Our goal is to help people find the most up-to-date information about file extensions for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS. We researched over 10,000 file extensions and their respective programs that open those files. If you want to suggest edits or updates about .AVHD file formats, example files, or programs that are compatible. Please contact us.