Windows
Compatible applications
Quick Facts
Basic information about this file format
Extension
.WMA LOSSLESS
File Type
Windows Media Audio Lossless
Category
Audio
Best first step
Use compatible software
Quick Summary
A practical overview of the .wma lossless file format
Windows Media Audio Lossless (WMA Lossless) is an audio codec developed by Microsoft. It's designed for lossless audio compression, meaning it compresses audio data without discarding any information. This results in larger file sizes compared to lossy formats like MP3 or AAC, but it preserves the…
File extension
.WMA LOSSLESS
File type
Windows Media Audio Lossless
Category
Audio
Recommended action
Open with a trusted compatible app
How to open a .wma lossless file
Start with a trusted app that supports this format
- Check the file extension carefully and confirm that the file name really ends with .wma lossless.
- Use software that supports this file type. If one app does not work, try another compatible program for the same platform.
- Update the application if the file was created by a newer version of the software.
- Scan files from unknown sources before opening them, especially documents, archives, scripts, installers, and executable files.
What is a .wma lossless file?
File extension details and usage information
Windows Media Audio Lossless (WMA Lossless) is an audio codec developed by Microsoft. It's designed for lossless audio compression, meaning it compresses audio data without discarding any information. This results in larger file sizes compared to lossy formats like MP3 or AAC, but it preserves the original audio quality perfectly. WMA Lossless is often used for archiving audio, creating backups of CDs, or for audiophiles who prioritize sound quality over file size. The format supports multi-channel audio and high-resolution audio, making it suitable for a wide range of audio applications. While WMA Lossless offers excellent audio fidelity, its compatibility is somewhat limited compared to more widely adopted lossless formats like FLAC. It's primarily supported by Microsoft products and some third-party software. When choosing between lossless formats, consider the balance between audio quality, file size, and compatibility with your devices and software.
Software Compatibility
Programs that may open or work with .wma lossless files
macOS
Compatible applications
Linux
Compatible applications
Mobile
Mobile applications
Can .wma lossless files be converted?
Options for saving or exporting this file to another format
In many cases, a .wma lossless file can be converted by opening it in compatible software and using an option such as Save As, Export, or Convert. The available output formats depend on the file type and the application used.
- Use the original software that created the file when possible.
- Check whether the application supports exporting to common formats.
- Be careful with online converters when working with private, business, or sensitive files.
- If conversion fails, the file may be corrupted, incomplete, encrypted, or not actually a .wma lossless file.
Why can't I open a .wma lossless file?
Common reasons this file type may not open correctly
Wrong software
The file may require a specific program that supports the .wma lossless format.
Incorrect extension
The file extension may have been renamed manually, even though the actual file format is different.
Corrupted file
The file may be incomplete, damaged during download, or transferred incorrectly.
Outdated app
Your software may need to be updated before it can open newer versions of this file format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about .wma lossless files
To open a .wma lossless file, use software that supports this file format.
- Windows Media Player
- Foobar2000
- VLC Media Player
- MediaMonkey
- Foobar2000 (via Wine)
Open the file in compatible software and look for options such as Save As, Export, or Convert. If no export option is available, the file may require a specialized converter or the original application that created it.
- Verify that the file extension is correct.
- Install or update compatible software.
- Try another application that supports this format.
- Check whether the file is corrupted, incomplete, or encrypted.
A file extension alone does not guarantee whether a file is safe or unsafe. Only open files from trusted sources, scan unknown files before opening them, and be especially careful with executable, script, archive, and document files.
File safety tips
Use caution with unknown files
Only open files from trusted sources. Before opening a .wma lossless file, scan it with antivirus software, verify that the file extension is expected, and avoid running unknown executable, installer, macro-enabled document, or script files.