3 file types use the .dsk file extension.

What is a DSK file?

Generic disk image format created by disk imaging programs; may be from an older program that images 3.5" diskettes, or from a newer program that creates larger disk images; often compressed to save disk space; can be mounted to appear as a disk on the desktop for Mac or within My Computer for Windows.

More Information

Category: Disk Image Files

Borland Project Desktop File

A DSK file may also be a project used by Borland Delphi and Borland C++ Builder development environments. It stores information about a development project, including open editor windows, workspace settings, and references to files (it does not contain actual source code or compiled programs). DSK files function as workspace configurations for organizing development environments, allowing developers to resume work with the same layout and files as in their previous session.

Borland Delphi and Borland C++ Builder primarily used DSK files during the 1990s and early 2000s. As development tools evolved, Borland’s Delphi and C++ Builder software transitioned to newer product versions, particularly with Delphi 2005 and beyond.

These newer versions and other modern Integrated Development Environments ( IDEs ) began using different formats for project management. For example, Delphi 2005 and later versions adopted the .DPROJ format for project files, leading the software to phase out DSK files.

You can open DSK files with Embarcadero Delphi in Windows. To open a DSK file with Delphi, select File → Open Project .

Programs that open DSK files

Updated: March 11, 2025

Simple IDs Database

A DSK file may also be a database created by DSKE Simple IDs, a now-discontinued program for making identification cards. It contains information related to ID cards, such as names, photos, contact information, and other personal details that Simple IDs uses to generate unique identification cards.

Simple IDs is a software program for generating ID cards for employees, members, or events. Individuals or organizations can personalize ID cards with the software by inputting information such as names, photos, and contact details. This information is saved in the DSK database format, which you can view and edit with the software.

While it was once more commonly used for basic ID card creation, DSKE discontinued Simple IDs as more feature-rich ID card management software, such as cardPresso and AlphaCard, gained popularity.

You can open DSK files with DSKE Simple IDs in Windows. However, DSKE no longer develops the software.

Programs that open DSK files

Updated: November 13, 2024