TARGA File Extension

What is TARGA file?

TARGA filename suffix is mostly used for Truevision TarGA Bitmap Image files. Files with TARGA extension may be used by programs distributed for Windows platform. TARGA file format, along with 524 other file formats, belongs to the Graphic Files category. The most popular software that supports TARGA files is XnView. XnView software was developed by Pierre-Emmanuel Gougelet, and on its official website you may find more information about TARGA files or the XnView software program.

Programs which support TARGA file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support TARGA files. TARGA 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 TARGA extension?

Problems with accessing TARGA may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with TARGA 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 XnView software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports TARGA files installed on the system. The solution to this problem is very simple. Download XnView 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. The safest method of downloading XnView installed is by going to developer’s website (Pierre-Emmanuel Gougelet) and downloading the software using provided links.

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

If the problems with opening TARGA files still occur even after installing XnView, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of XnView is available. 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 The reason that XnView cannot handle files with TARGA may be that the software is outdated.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. Associate Truevision TarGA Bitmap Image files with XnView

After installing XnView (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open TARGA files. 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

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the TARGA file
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where XnView is installed, check the Always use this app to open TARGA files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Change the default application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with TARGA extension, select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select XnView and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with TARGA extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the TARGA file is complete and free of 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 TARGA file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

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

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the TARGA file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the TARGA file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. TARGA file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If the TARGA file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with TARGA extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle XnView

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

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

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Truevision TarGA Bitmap Image files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle TARGA files.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the TARGA 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 TARGA file.