GML File Extension

What is GML file?

The GML format enables to sort files created in the Geography Markup Language. It is a formal language. It was developed by the Open Geospatial Consortium, and it is based on the eXtensible Markup Language (XML). Its main purpose is to transfer geographic data. Rules regarding data storing within a GML file are defined in the ISO 19136:2007 norm.

Files saved in the GML format enable exchange of data containing geographic information, between different platforms.

Programs which support GML file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open GML files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with GML 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: 07/19/2022

How to open file with GML extension?

Problems with accessing GML may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with GML extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install FME Desktop software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports GML files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install FME Desktop or one to the listed programs: TatukGIS Viewer, Merkaartor. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit FME Desktop website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update FME Desktop to the latest version

You still cannot access GML files although FME Desktop 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. The reason that FME Desktop cannot handle files with GML may be that the software is outdated. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using FME Desktop.

Step 3. Set the default application to open GML files to FME Desktop

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate GML files with latest version of FME Desktop you have installed on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Change the default application in Windows

• Clicking the GML with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where FME Desktop is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open GML files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected GML file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with GML extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the GML for errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the GML file is valid. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. The GML may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the GML is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the scanner detected that the GML file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Verify that the GML file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic GML file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with GML extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Geography Markup Language Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open FME Desktop

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support GML files. Close all running programs and try opening the GML file.

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

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Geography Markup Language Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with GML files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the GML 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 GML file.