File Extension Database

Open SQM File

File extension SQM is most commonly associated with a Software Quality Metrics file, and is generated by a number of Microsoft Applications, most notably Windows Live Messenger. Though less common, the SQM file extension is also used to denote Operation Flashpoint saved mission file.

SQM files are most commonly log files created by Microsoft applications. These are used to store a variety of data, including application usage, performance issues and debugging information created by the unexpected termination of an application. This data can then be sent to Microsoft by the user as part of their Customer Experience Improvement Program (CEIP) which is then used to further develop applications and fix software bugs. Though SQM files are used to log application activity, no sensitive information is stored. It is also possible to opt out of the program when an application is installed or run, and in this case no data is recorded.

SQM files are most commonly found either in the root of the operating system drive, which for the majority of users is C:, or in the Application Data folder in the user's Documents and Settings folder. These follow the naming convention sqmnoopt00.sqm, with the last two digits incrementing with the creation of each new file. SQM files have the hidden file attribute, so under most circumstances will not be seen, and also contain no human-readable information so should not be opened in a text editor.

Microsoft Software Quality Metrics SQM files are a proprietary format and cannot be opened. They are designed to provide application logs to Microsoft for the purposes of providing feedback and error reporting, and are only usable by Microsoft following their submission as part of the CEIP. SQM files which relate to Operation Flashpoint can be loaded from within the game to restore a saved mission.

How Can I Open SQM File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open SQM file is to find a SQM file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a SQM 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 SQM 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 SQM file opener then try to search online for "SQM viewer", "application to open SQM file" or "open SQM file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open SQM file

How Can I Open SQM File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a SQM file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a SQM 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 SQM file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as SQM file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open SQM file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open SQM file then try to search for "SQM viewer", "application to open SQM file" or "read SQM file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read SQM file

How Can I Open SQM File on Android

If you downloaded a SQM 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 SQM 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 "SQM".
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 "SQM viewer", "SQM 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 SQM File on iPhone or iPad

To open SQM 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 SQM 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 "SQM". This way you can find apps which can open SQM 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 "SQM viewer" or "SQM file" online in your favorite search engine.