BPN File Extension

What is BPN file?

BNP is a backup file format used by ArchiCAD, a modeling and simulation software. ArchiCAD saves project data in PLN files, which are the base for generating BPN project backup files.

Project backup copy creation

BPN files are generated automatically for each project file according to the ArchiCAD data security settings, such as backup copy retention time. BPN files are saved in the same folder as PLN files. BPN data can be restored by simply changing the suffix to PLN. It is a fast and easy way to recover data in such cases as corrupted or damaged main project file.

Programs which support BPN file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support BPN files. BPN files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 12/13/2023

How to open file with BPN extension?

Problems with accessing BPN may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with BPN files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with BPN files.

Step 1. Install ArchiCAD software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports BPN files installed on the system. The solution is straightforward, just download and install ArchiCAD. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support BPN 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. Verify the you have the latest version of ArchiCAD

You still cannot access BPN files although ArchiCAD is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. If you have an older version of ArchiCAD installed, it may not support BPN 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 ArchiCAD.

Step 3. Set the default application to open BPN files to ArchiCAD

If you have the latest version of ArchiCAD installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage BPN on your device. 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 BPN with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where ArchiCAD is installed, check the Always use this app to open BPN files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the BPN file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with BPN extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the BPN is not faulty

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 BPN file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Check the BPN file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the BPN file hinders attempts to open it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. BPN file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

If you obtained the problematic BPN 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. When downloading the file with BPN extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

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. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle ArchiCAD

If the systems has insufficient resources to open BPN 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 ArchiCAD Project Backup Format files. It may be the case that the BPN files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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