How to open OSM files? 4 simple methods of solving such problems
When you encounter a problem with an unknown OSM 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 OSM files and how to solve them in 4 simple steps.
OSM File Extension
- File type OpenStreetMap Map Format
- File developer OpenStreetMap
- File category GIS Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) OSM file?
The OSM (OpenStreetMap Map Format) is an XML-based file format that is used to store map data for the OpenStreetMap project. It is comprised of elements, such as nodes (which are points of interest on a map), ways (which are linear features such as roads or rivers), and closed ways (which are areas such as parks or lakes). Each element can then contain tags - key and value pairs - which provide additional information about the element. The data can be combined into layers and/or grouped into categories that allow for a variety of purposes.
OSM files are often used in geographic and route planning applications, but can also be used to view entire regions or explore details about a certain area. The data in an OSM file is constantly updated and enriched by users’ contributions, making it one of the most current and up-to-date maps available on the web.
How to open OSM file?
In some cases problems may occur when trying to open OSM 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 OSM files. It may happen so that even when an application that supports OSM files is installed on the system it is not properly associated with this file format. This can be easily remedied by associating program with OSM 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 OSM file, focus on steps 1 and 2
In majority of cases following instruction in step 1 and 2 should be enough to open files with OSM extension. Before attempting the next steps, test all the programs listed below.
Step 2 – Install a program that supports OSM files
Should it happen that the section with suggested programs is empty, it is most probable that no program supporting OSM files is installed on the system. Choose a program from the following list and install it:
Programs that support files with OSM extension
Step 3 – Check for other possible causes of errors
- Corrupted storage medium on which the OSM 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 OSM 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 OSM file, you should contact an IT expert. You could also try to contact the developer of given software that supports OSM files. Appropriate website addresses can be found by clicking the name of given program in the list above.
