PS File Extension

What is PS file?

File with PS (PostScript) extension is an image file that saves data using Adobe PostScript page description language. PS files can also store vector and raster graphics, and text data. PS standard was developed by Adobe in 1982.

Revolution in printing

PS files revolutionized printing as they allowed creators to put text and images on the same page, a feat possible only to achieve using advanced CAD printing devices. PS files resemble more a programming language file than an image format because they store sets of instructions for the printer to produce the page.

Printing PS files without using an application

The advantage of PS format is that PS files can be printed with PS-compatible printing devices without being opened in an application. As such, PS file can be shared among users who don’t have access to the application with which given PS file was created.

Successor to the PS format

Although still used today, PS format lost much of its former popularity in favor of its successor – the PDF format. PS files can be converted into PDF files.

Programs which support PS file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support PS files. Files with PS 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: 10/21/2021

How to open file with PS extension?

Being unable to open files with PS extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to PostScript Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install Adobe Illustrator

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening PS files is that no program that can handle PS files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Adobe Illustrator or different compatible program, such as Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Photoshop, Canvas. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support PS files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. If you want to download Adobe Illustrator installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Adobe Systems Incorporated website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update Adobe Illustrator to the latest version

You still cannot access PS files although Adobe Illustrator is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why PS files are not compatible with Adobe Illustrator. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Adobe Illustrator.

Step 3. Assign Adobe Illustrator to PS files

After installing Adobe Illustrator (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open PS files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

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

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with PS extension, select 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....
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with PS extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the PS for errors

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 PS file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the PS file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the PS is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the PS file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

If the PS file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. When downloading the file with PS extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

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

If the systems has insufficient resources to open PS files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with PostScript Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle PS files.

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