3 steps to open file with KML extension
Usually solving problems with KML file is simple – just install proper software and open the file. Read the guide and open KML file now!
KML File Extension
- File type Keyhole Markup Language Format
- File developer N/A
- File category GIS Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) KML file?
The .KML extension is characteristic of .GIS files that store geographic modeling data saved in the .XML format, including polygons, lines, graphics, and points used by Keyhole and Google Earth. Thanks to them, programs allow mapping including textures, .HTML elements, camera angles, locations and more.
How to open KML file?
There could be multiple reasons for which the system does not support given file. In the case of KML extension, it is probable that none of the installed programs support given file type. Therefore, user should undertake the following steps
Step 1: Install a program that supports KML files
If an application that supports KML files is installed on user’s system, but is not used to open such files by default, right-click on the file icon and choose "Open with" option from the menu. Next, select the proper application and check the "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files" box. The system will store this information in its registry and use the selected program to open files with KML extension by default.
Hint for Mac OS users
For Mac OS users the procedure is analogous – open the file menu by right-clicking on the KML file and choose "Information" option and select "Open with program" option. From the submenu select an application and click on "Change all" button.
Step 2: Find and download proper software
Inability to open KML files may also be related to the lack of any application that supports given file being installed on the system. Should that be the case, user needs to download and install one of the following applications. Once installed, the system will automatically associate newly installed application with KML files. If this step fails, see step 1.
Programs that support files with KML extension
Step 3: Check the KML file for errors
Sometimes, although relatively rarely, steps 1 and 2 might not lead to expected results. There can be several reasons for such situation to occur:
- KML file has been downloaded from the internet but for some reason it is incomplete. In such case the file should be re-downloaded and opened again.
- Structure of given KML file could be corrupted and as such the program is not able to open the file
- Storage medium on which the file was stored is damaged
- It is important to ascertain that the icon representing given file is not a shortcut a related KML file no longer present in the location to which the shortcut points
- If the user account has restricted access privileges it is advised to contact the system administrator or an IT expert
