SHP file – What is it? How to open such file? Solutions to problems with SHP files
Unknown file extension can be a source of various problems. However, identifying the causes of problems with SHP files and addressing them isn’t necessary a complicated process. This article will describe 5 simple steps that will let you address problems with SHP files.
- 1. SHP File Extension
- 2. What is a(n) SHP file?
- 3. How to open SHP file?
- 3.1 Find and download then install appropriate software
- 3.2 Verify whether the SHP file is not infected with malware
- 3.3 Verify whether the SHP files is complete, that is, was it downloaded properly
- 3.4 Verify whether SHP files are associated with proper software
- 3.5 Verify whether the storage medium on which the SHP files is stored is not damaged or corrupted
- 4. Similar file extensions
SHP File Extension
- File type Shapes Format
- File developer N/A
- File category 3D Image Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) SHP file?
The SHP (Shapes Format) file type is a vector graphics storage format for storing geographic data. Files in this format, also referred to as ESRI shapefiles or just shapefiles, store the geometry of a feature, along with other associated data. They can contain points, lines (or arcs), polygons, and references to current attributes. The files also adhere to the ESRI published specification regarding the structure and content of shapefiles.
SHP files follow an open specification published by ESRI and are used with mapping solutions, GIS databases, etc. Files that use this type of format have the extension .shp and must come with five other related files in order to store the complete dataset, these include .shx, .dbf, .sbn/.sbx, .fbn/.fbx and .ain/.aih/.ixs./prj files.
How to open SHP file?
Step 1. Find and download then install appropriate software
Typically in order to open .SHP files it is sufficient to follow these simple steps: find, download, and install appropriate software. Then, by double-clicking on the file icon, open the file. System should automatically associate SHP file with appropriate software. Below is the list of programs required to open files with SHP extension:
Programs that support SHP files
Step 2. Verify whether the SHP file is not infected with malware
If given file with SHP extension is not infected, it is possible that the antivirus software is blocking access to the file. User should take necessary precautions and follow the steps suggested by the system. After recovering or removing the infected file it is recommended to scan the entire system for viruses. Yo will have to acquire a new, clean version of SHP file.
Hint!
Be advised that you can always consult an IT expert for help. Some problems with SHP files can be hard to solve for less sophisticated users. Also, you can ask for help one of the developers of software that supports files with SHP extension. In order to do so, go to software’s subpage and search for software’s developer website address
Step 3. Verify whether the SHP files is complete, that is, was it downloaded properly
If the SHP file has not been downloaded properly it is not possible for the software to open such file. Check the file size in the location from where you downloaded the file in question. If the size of the original file differs from the size of downloaded SHP file, you will have to download the file again.
Step 4. Verify whether SHP files are associated with proper software
If the system registry has no entry related to default program that should be used to open SHP files, even though given program is installed on the system, then SHP files must be associated with the application in question.
Associating files with applications is performed similarly regardless of the type of system and consists in selecting an application which should be used for opening given type of files. In order to associate SHP files with given application, right-click the file icon and select form the context menu "Open with" option, which will display a list of suggested programs. Select your program from the list. If the application is not on the list, use the "Browse" button and point to the location of the application. Checking "Always use selected application to open this kind of files" option will set selected application as the default application for opening given files.
Step 5. Verify whether the storage medium on which the SHP files is stored is not damaged or corrupted
It is possible that the storage medium on which the file is located is damaged or corrupted. Try scanning the storage medium for errors.
Similar file extensions
