AI File Extension

What is AI file?

.AI file format used by Adobe Illustrator Artwork and is used for representation of vector based single page drawings which are available in either PDF or EPS file formats. AI is an abbreviation for Abode Illustrator. AI file format was previously known as PGF format.

The earlier versions of AI file formats were EPS files which had compact and restricted syntax having additional semantics which were represented by DSC comments (Illustrator specific) which conform to opening structure convention used by DSC. One of the many software applications which can be used to open .AI file formats is Adobe AfterEffects.

Programs which support AI file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open AI files divided into 5 categories according to system platform supported. AI files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 10/30/2023

How to open file with AI extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening AI files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with AI files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install Adobe Illustrator software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening AI files is that no program that can handle AI files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Adobe Illustrator or different compatible program, such as Adobe Acrobat, Ai Viewer, DrawPlus. 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 Adobe Illustrator installed is by going to developer’s website (Adobe Systems Incorporated) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Check the version of Adobe Illustrator and update if needed

You still cannot access AI files although Adobe Illustrator 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. If you have an older version of Adobe Illustrator installed, it may not support AI format. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Adobe Illustrator.

Step 3. Assign Adobe Illustrator to AI files

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

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the AI file
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where Adobe Illustrator is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open AI files and clicking OK.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the AI file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with AI extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

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

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

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

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the AI file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. 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. If the AI file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Adobe Illustrator Graphics Format file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Adobe Illustrator

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

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

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Adobe Illustrator Graphics Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle AI files.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the AI 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 AI file.