BITMAP File Extension

What is BITMAP file?

Full format name of files that use BITMAP extension is X Window System Bitmap Image. Files with BITMAP extension may be used by programs distributed for Windows platform. Files with BITMAP extension are categorized as Graphic Files files. The Graphic Files subset comprises 524 various file formats. XnView is by far the most used program for working with BITMAP files. XnView software was developed by Pierre-Emmanuel Gougelet, and on its official website you may find more information about BITMAP files or the XnView software program.

Programs which support BITMAP file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support BITMAP files. Files with BITMAP extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

How to open file with BITMAP extension?

Being unable to open files with BITMAP extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to X Window System Bitmap Image files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with BITMAP files.

Step 1. Install XnView software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports BITMAP files installed on the system. The solution is straightforward, just download and install XnView. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support BITMAP 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. Verify the you have the latest version of XnView

You still cannot access BITMAP files although XnView is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that XnView cannot handle files with BITMAP may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of XnView is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open BITMAP files to XnView

If you have the latest version of XnView installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage BITMAP on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the BITMAP file
• 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 BITMAP files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the BITMAP file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select XnView and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with BITMAP extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the BITMAP for errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the BITMAP file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

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

If the BITMAP 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. BITMAP file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

If the BITMAP 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. It could happen the the download process of file with BITMAP extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access 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. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open XnView

If the systems has insufficient resources to open BITMAP 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 X Window System Bitmap Image files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the BITMAP files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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