GDL File Extension

What is GDL file?

GDL filename suffix is mostly used for ArchiCAD Geometric Description Language Data files. ArchiCAD Geometric Description Language Data format was developed by Graphisoft. Files with GDL extension may be used by programs distributed for Windows platform. Files with GDL extension are categorized as Misc Files files. The Misc Files subset comprises 6033 various file formats. ArchiCAD is by far the most used program for working with GDL files. ArchiCAD software was developed by Graphisoft, and on its official website you may find more information about GDL files or the ArchiCAD software program.

Programs which support GDL file extension

The following listing features GDL-compatible programs. GDL files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

How to open file with GDL extension?

Problems with accessing GDL may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with GDL files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install ArchiCAD software

Problems with opening and working with GDL files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with GDL files being present on your machine. To address this issue, go to the ArchiCAD developer website, download the tool, and install it. It is that easy Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support GDL files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. If you want to download ArchiCAD installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Graphisoft website and download from their official repositories.

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

If you already have ArchiCAD installed on your systems and GDL files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. The reason that ArchiCAD cannot handle files with GDL may be that the software is outdated.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 ArchiCAD.

Step 3. Associate ArchiCAD Geometric Description Language Data files with ArchiCAD

After installing ArchiCAD (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open GDL files. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Right-click the GDL 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 ArchiCAD installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open GDL files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the GDL file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with GDL extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the GDL file is complete and free of errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the GDL file in question. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Check the GDL file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the GDL is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. 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 GDL file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

If you obtained the problematic GDL file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. 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. It could happen the the download process of file with GDL 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

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system 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 ArchiCAD

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

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 ArchiCAD Geometric Description Language Data files. It may be the case that the GDL files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the GDL 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 GDL file.