Notepad++ is a powerful and feature-rich text editor, widely used by developers and IT professionals.

However, some users face an issue where Notepad++ does not save a file as a .vbs script. This can be frustrating, especially when working with VBScript for automation tasks.

In this guide, we’ll explore why Notepad++ won’t save files as .vbs and provide step-by-step solutions to fix the issue.

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What is a VBS File?

Before diving into the issue, let’s understand what a VBS (VBScript) file is.

• A VBS file is a script written in Visual Basic Scripting Edition (VBScript).

• It is commonly used for Windows automation, system administration, and creating lightweight applications.

• VBS scripts are executed using Windows Script Host (WSH).

Since VBScript is a scripting language, saving the file with the correct extension (.vbs) is essential for it to execute properly.

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Why Notepad++ Won’t Save as VBS?

There are several reasons why Notepad++ fails to save a file with the .vbs extension. Below are the most common ones:

1. Incorrect File Extension

• By default, Notepad++ may append .txt automatically when saving files.
• This results in a file named script.vbs.txt instead of script.vbs.

2. Encoding Issues

• Some scripts require ANSI or UTF-8 (without BOM) encoding.
• Saving in UTF-8 with BOM can cause issues when running the script.

3. Permission Restrictions

• If the file is being saved in a system-protected directory (e.g., C:\Windows or C:\Program Files), Windows may block the save operation.
• Running Notepad++ without administrator privileges may also prevent saving.

4. Antivirus or Windows Defender Blocking VBS Files

• Some security software prevents users from creating or modifying VBS files.
• This is because VBS scripts can be used for malware attacks.

5. Notepad++ Settings Automatically Changing File Extensions

• If Notepad++ is set to save files with a default extension, it might force a .txt extension even when you specify .vbs.

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How to Fix Notepad++ Not Saving as VBS?

Here are some effective solutions to resolve the issue:

Method 1: Save with Correct Extension

1. Go to File → Save As.
2. In the Save as type dropdown, select **All Types ( **.
3. Manually enter the filename with the .vbs extension, e.g., script.vbs.
4. Click Save.

Tip: If the file still saves as .txt, try enclosing the filename in double quotes, like this: "script.vbs".

Method 2: Change File Encoding

1. Open Notepad++ and go to Encoding in the top menu.
2. Select ANSI or UTF-8 without BOM.
3. Save the file again as .vbs.

Method 3: Run Notepad++ as Administrator

1. Close Notepad++.
2. Right-click on the Notepad++ icon and select Run as administrator.
3. Try saving the file again.

Method 4: Disable Antivirus Restrictions

1. Temporarily disable Windows Defender or third-party antivirus software.
2. Try saving the .vbs file again.
3. If successful, add Notepad++ to your antivirus exclusion list.

Method 5: Adjust Notepad++ Settings

1. Open Notepad++.
2. Go to Settings → Preferences → Default Directory.
3. Check if there is an option forcing file extensions and disable it.

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Final Talk

Notepad++ is a fantastic text editor, but saving .vbs files can sometimes be tricky. The most common issues include incorrect file extensions, encoding problems, permission restrictions, antivirus interference, and Notepad++ settings.

By following the step-by-step solutions provided, you can easily save your VBS scripts and continue working without hassle.

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