Tips to open NKI file

Can't open the NKI file? You are not the only one. Thousands of users face similar problems every day. Below you will find tips on how to open NKI files as well as a list of programs that support NKI files.

NKI file extension

File Name KONTAKT Instrument Format
File Developer Native Instruments
File Category Audio Files

The NKI file is supported on 2 operating systems. Depending on your operating system, you may need different software to handle the NKI files. Below is a summary of the number of programs that support and open the NKI file on each system platform.

Operating systems
  • 4
  • 1
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0

What is NKI file?

The file in the NKI format belongs to the Audio Files category. It was designed by Native Instruments. Additionally, the Audio Files category contains 771 of other files. KONTAKT Instrument Format is supported by 2 operating systems. The file will work on Mac OS, Windows systems, unfortunately not on others. It is recommended to use KONTAKT to handle this file. This is a program created by Native Instruments, Inc.. There are also 4 alternative programs to handle the NKI file. You can use nkitool, TRAKTOR, KOMPLETE in case KONTAKT cannot be used.

How to open NKI file?

The most common problem when using KONTAKT Instrument Format is that a specific NKI is not associated with the program. This is manifested by the fact that NKI files open in unusual applications or do not have an assigned program. This can be quickly resolved by following the instructions below.

The first thing you should do is just "doubleclick" on the NKI file icon you want to open. If the operating system has an appropriate application to support it and there is also an association between the file and the program, the file should be opened.

Step 1. Install KONTAKT

The first step is to check if the computer has the KONTAKT program installed. This can be achieved by typing KONTAKT into the operating system search engine. If we do not have this program, it is worth installing it, as it will help you automatically associate the file NKI with KONTAKT. Below you will find a list of applications that support NKI files.

Programs to open NKI file

Remember to download programs supporting NKI files only from verified and safe sources. We suggest using the websites of software developers.

Step 2. Create association of KONTAKT with NKI files

If the application is or has been freshly installed, but the NKI file still does not use the KONTAKT program, it means no association. It is most convenient to call the context menu with the right mouse button and select Properties. The window will show, among other things, the type of the file and the information by which the program is used to launch the file. Changes can be made using the "Change" button. It may happen that in the next window there will be no appropriate program - however, this can be corrected with the "Browse" option where you should manually indicate the program location. Checking the "Always use the selected program ..." box will permanently associate the NKI file with the KONTAKT program.

Step 3. Update KONTAKT to the latest version

If, however, after binding KONTAKT with KONTAKT Instrument Format there were still problems, you should update the program to the latest version. This can be done using the application (if it provides such options) or from the Native Instruments, Inc. website and install the latest version.

Step 4. Check for the following problems with the NKI file

Of course, it may happen that despite the above steps, the file still does not work. The most common file problems are:

The affected file may be 0 KB or smaller than expected. This suggests truncating the NKI file contents when downloading or copying. The file should be downloaded again, making sure that the process has finished correctly.
The operating system may be infected with a computer virus. A quick virus scan using an up-to-date antivirus program should clear up any doubts. If this is not possible, you can use the online scanner. For the best results, we will scan the entire operating system, not just our NKI file. However, remember that not every infected NKI file can be recovered, so it is important to take care of regular backups.
A typical compatibility error - the program does not support the older version of the NKI file. On their websites, developers usually offer free solutions to such problems, e.g. in the form of a conversion program or an older version of the program.
There can be many reasons for this. Depending on the type of file, it is necessary to repair it accordingly. Some programs offer the option of recovering data from damaged NKI files. The easiest way to restore the file is from a backup or by contacting Native Instruments, but this one can be expensive. Not all damage can be reversed.
The program can also signal the fact of encryption. The encrypted NKI files can be used by the device on which they were encrypted, on any other device it is required to have the appropriate cryptographic key and decrypt the file before its recovery.
The operating system protects files in some locations (e.g. the root of the system partition) against unauthorized access. The problem is only writing to the file, not reading it. If possible, you can try to move the NKI file to another location.
This problem usually affects more complex files. Some file types can only be opened in one program at a time. Running programs (including those in the background) should be verified. Sometimes you have to wait for the session to the file NKI to close. Some anti-virus or backup software may occupy the NKI file for a certain period of time. If this does not work either, restart the device.