Why nothing happens
Every file extension is linked to a default program. .pdf is linked to a PDF reader, .docx to a word processor. For .asice there is no link out of the box on Windows, macOS, Android or iOS, so the system shows an "Open with" dialog or an error.
Do not pick Notepad or a text editor from that dialog. The file is a compressed archive and will appear as gibberish.
Three openers that work
| Opener | Installation | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Browser at asiceviewer.com | None | Reading a file right now, on any device |
| DigiDoc4 client | Yes | Official validation and signing |
| ASiC-E Viewer for Android | From Google Play | Phones and tablets, also offline |
Using the browser as your opener
- Open asiceviewer.com in Chrome, Edge, Firefox or Safari.
- Drag the file from your desktop or downloads folder onto the page.
- Read the documents and signatures. Close the tab when done.
You can keep the page bookmarked, or install it as an app from the browser menu. Chromium browsers then offer ASiCE Viewer in the "Open with" list for .asice files.
Setting a permanent default
On Windows, right-click the file, choose Open with → Choose another app, select the program and tick Always use this app. On macOS, select the file, press Cmd+I, choose the app under Open with and click Change All. On Android, the system asks the first time; choose Always.
If you only meet a signed container a few times a year, skipping the installation is perfectly reasonable. See how to open ASiC-E files for a comparison of every route.
Frequently asked questions
Which program opens .asice files by default?
None is preinstalled. After installing DigiDoc4 it becomes the default; without it, use a browser-based opener.
I chose the wrong program and now it always opens in Notepad. How do I undo it?
Right-click the file, choose Open with, pick the correct app and tick the option to always use it. That replaces the earlier choice.