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How to open AI files? 4 simple methods of solving such problems

When you encounter a problem with an unknown AI file and you do not know how to open such file, the first step you should take is to determine the cause of given problem. We will show you how to address most common problems with AI files and how to solve them in 4 simple steps.

  1. 1. AI File Extension
  2. 2. What is a(n) AI file?
  3. 3. How to open AI file?
    1. 3.1 Verify whether the file is properly associated with selected software
    2. 3.2 Install a program that supports AI files
      1. 3.2.1 Programs that support files with AI extension
    3. 3.3 Check for other possible causes of errors
    4. 3.4 Contact an expert
  4. 4. Similar file extensions

AI File Extension

File
  • File type Adobe Illustrator Graphics Format
  • File developer Adobe Systems
  • File category Vector Image Files
  • File popularity rating
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What is a(n) AI file?

The .AI graphic file stores vector graphic data, including a system of point-connected paths. The extension is characteristic of Adobe Illustrator, usually when the file is edited by third-party software, image rasterization occurs.

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How to open AI file?

In some cases problems may occur when trying to open AI files. Steps listed below can be helpful in addressing such problems.

Step 1 – Verify whether the file is properly associated with selected software

The first thing user should do is to associate application with AI files. It may happen so that even when an application that supports AI files is installed on the system it is not properly associated with this file format. This can be easily remedied by associating program with AI files. In order to associate such files with given application, user must open the file menu (by right-clicking on the file) and choosing "Open with". A list of suggested applications will be displayed at the top part of menu. Next, select an application and confirm your choice by checking "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files" option. Confirm your selection by clicking OK.

In order to open AI file, focus on steps 1 and 2

Open

In majority of cases following instruction in step 1 and 2 should be enough to open files with AI extension. Before attempting the next steps, test all the programs listed below.

Step 2 – Install a program that supports AI files

Should it happen that the section with suggested programs is empty, it is most probable that no program supporting AI files is installed on the system. Choose a program from the following list and install it:

Programs that support files with AI extension

Windows programs
Windows
MAC OS programs
MAC OS
Linux programs
Linux
iOS programs
iOS

Step 3 – Check for other possible causes of errors

  • Corrupted storage medium on which the AI file is stored
  • File data corruption or incompleteness (for example, due to incomplete download or copy process). In such case the file must be re-downloaded or properly copied and then opened again.
  • Compatibility issues – check whether AI extension is compatible with user’s operating system
  • Administrative policy settings may prevent user from opening given file

Step 4 – Contact an expert

If you are still unable to open AI file, you should contact an IT expert. You could also try to contact the developer of given software that supports AI files. Appropriate website addresses can be found by clicking the name of given program in the list above.

Similar file extensions

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