.ESD File Extension
File TypeWindows Electronic Software Download File
Developer | Microsoft |
Popularity |
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Category | Misc Files |
Format | Binary |
What is an ESD file?
File used by Microsoft's Electronic Software Download (ESD) software, a technology that is used for downloading purchased Microsoft products; saves the downloaded software in an encrypted format (an encrypted .WIM file); used for installing and upgrading purchased software.
ESD files are sometimes seen when upgrading to Windows 7 or Windows 8 using the Microsoft Upgrade Assistant or when purchasing the software through the Microsoft online store.
A common directory to find downloaded ESD files is:
C:\Users\[user]\AppData\Local\Microsoft\WebSetup\Download\
WinPayload.esd - The file downloaded when purchasing and installing Windows 8 using Microsoft's upgrade assistant.