MAP File Extension

What is MAP file?

MAP files, precisely - Geographical Map Files, are associated with MapInfor – a program for managing geographical data. File with a MAP extension, along with 3 other file, is the basic source of data for the above mentioned software.

Each saving of a MAP file by MapInfo includes sorting the objects contained within into the so-called R-Tree structure.

Function of MAP files

MAP files contain graphic data and geographical information necessary for proper display of vector properties on a amp. This includes map’s objects stored in a binary system. Therefore, MAP files describe graphic objects.

Utilising such files enables to store, analyse, change and use information in a graphic form. MAP files are usually used by professional users.

Programs which support MAP file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support MAP files. Files with MAP suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 11/02/2022

How to open file with MAP extension?

Being unable to open files with MAP extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Geographical Map Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Get the XnView

Problems with opening and working with MAP files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with MAP files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install XnView or one to the listed programs: MapInfo, Manifold System, IDRISI Andes. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support MAP files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit XnView website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of XnView and update if needed

You still cannot access MAP files although XnView is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. If you have an older version of XnView installed, it may not support MAP format. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using XnView.

Step 3. Associate Geographical Map Format files with XnView

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate MAP files with latest version of XnView you have installed on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Right-click the MAP file and choose Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the XnView installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open MAP files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with MAP extension, select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select XnView and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with MAP extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the MAP is not faulty

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper MAP file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the MAP file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the MAP file hinders attempts to open it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. MAP file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Ensure the file with MAP extension is complete and error-free

If the MAP file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. If the MAP file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Geographical Map Format file.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run XnView

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with MAP extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Geographical Map Format files. It may be the case that the MAP files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the MAP file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on MAP file.