PWDEF File Extension

What is PWDEF file?

Full format name of files that use PWDEF extension is ArcGIS Project Format. Files with PWDEF extension may be used by programs distributed for Windows platform. PWDEF file format, along with 255 other file formats, belongs to the GIS Files category. ArcGIS is by far the most used program for working with PWDEF files. ArcGIS software was developed by Esri, and on its official website you may find more information about PWDEF files or the ArcGIS software program.

Programs which support PWDEF file extension

Programs that can handle PWDEF files are as follows. PWDEF files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 02/01/2020

How to open file with PWDEF extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening PWDEF files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to ArcGIS Project 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. Install ArcGIS software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening PWDEF files is that no program that can handle PWDEF files is installed on user’s system. The solution to this problem is very simple. Download ArcGIS and install it on your device. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. If you want to download ArcGIS installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Esri website and download from their official repositories.

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

You still cannot access PWDEF files although ArcGIS 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 PWDEF files are not compatible with ArcGIS. The latest version of ArcGIS should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign ArcGIS to PWDEF files

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

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

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

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the PWDEF file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with PWDEF extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the PWDEF 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 PWDEF file in question. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Verify that the PWDEF in question is not infected with a computer virus

Should it happed that the PWDEF 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. PWDEF file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

If the PWDEF 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 PWDEF 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. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the ArcGIS Project Format file again.

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

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

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with ArcGIS Project Format file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle PWDEF files.

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