TNL File Extension

What is TNL file?

Files with .TNL extension store image thumbnails in Thumbnail Image format. Thumbnails are image miniatures that hold preview images. TNL files are generated automatically by image viewers and managers. Alternatively, TNL files can be called image previews. Previews are displayed when browsing images in JPEG format, for example, to prevent opening large image files each time the image catalog or folder is accessed.

What are TNL files used for?

TNL format is used by XnView image viewer to quickly generate image previews. Thumbnail files are created upon the first time given image folder is opened and it may take some time for the process to complete and display generated miniatures. It is worth reminding that TNL files do not store images, only thumbnails, and cannot be used to recover deleted or corrupted source images.

Programs which support TNL file extension

Programs that can handle TNL files are as follows. Files with TNL 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: 04/26/2023

How to open file with TNL extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening TNL files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with TNL 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. Get the XnView

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports TNL files installed on the system. To address this issue, go to the XnView developer website, download the tool, and install it. It is that easy On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. 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. Update XnView to the latest version

If you already have XnView installed on your systems and TNL files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. 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 The reason that XnView cannot handle files with TNL may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of XnView should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign XnView to TNL files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate TNL files with latest version of XnView you have installed on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Clicking the TNL 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
• 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 TNL 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 TNL extension, select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select XnView and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with TNL extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

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

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

If the TNL is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the TNL file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the TNL file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. 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 TNL extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative 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. Check whether your system can handle XnView

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support TNL files. Close all running programs and try opening the TNL file.

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 Thumbnail Image Format files. It may be the case that the TNL files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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