I cannot open a DRW file. What should I do? Help!
Virtually anyone has encountered some problems with opening unknown files while working on a computer. It can be very frustrating. Yet such problems, not only with DRW files, can be addressed in a standard way. Follow the steps below and we can guarantee that your problem with opening DRW will be resolved!
DRW File Extension
- File type Drawing Format
- File developer N/A
- File category Vector Image Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) DRW file?
The DRW extension is used to save vector graphics in the desired format. It uses lines and geometric shapes instead of pixels. The format is commonly used by several image editing programs.
How to open DRW file?
If given user account does not have necessary permissions to open files with DRW extension, it is highly probable that no program that supports given files is installed on the users’ system. Below is a list of actions user should pursue in order to resolve most common problems.
Step 1. Download and install application that supports DRW files
After the application has been installed, the system should automatically open DRW files with given application. Below is the list of relevant programs along with operating systems they are available for:
Programs that support DRW files
Step 2. Verify whether DRW files are associated with appropriate software
It is possible that an application that supports DRW files is not associated with such files. In such case, the program should by manually associated with DRW files (right-click on the file icon → Properties → General Tab → In submenu "Open with" and click on "Change" button. System will display a list of suggested programs that support DRW files. Choose the application by checking the box "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files". System will store this information in its registry and use it to open DRW files with the selected program.
Changing DRW file association in registry
File association for DRW files can be edited manually by editing appropriate entry in Windows System Registry. However, it is discouraged as it may introduce errors to registry if not done properly and may even damage the system.
Step 3. Check DRW file for other errors
- DRW file was not copied properly from storage medium.
- Antivirus application prevents opening DRW files. In that case it is recommended to exercise extreme caution and recover or delete infected DRW file. It is also advised to scan the entire system for malicious software and viruses with antivirus software.
- For DRW files downloaded from the internet it is advised to check if the file has been downloaded completely and is not corrupted. If not, the file should be re-downloaded.
