DFM File Extension

What is DFM file?

DFM is a file extension commonly associated with Delphi Form files. Embarcadero Technologies defined the Delphi Form format standard. Files with DFM extension may be used by programs distributed for Windows platform. Files with DFM extension are categorized as Developer Files files. The Developer Files subset comprises 1205 various file formats. The software recommended for managing DFM files is Delphi. Delphi software was developed by Embarcadero Technologies, Inc., and on its official website you may find more information about DFM files or the Delphi software program.

Programs which support DFM file extension

The following listing features DFM-compatible programs. Files with DFM suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

How to open file with DFM extension?

Being unable to open files with DFM extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Delphi Form files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with DFM files.

Step 1. Get the Delphi

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports DFM files installed on the system. The solution is straightforward, just download and install Delphi. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support DFM files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Delphi website and download the installer.

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

If the problems with opening DFM files still occur even after installing Delphi, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Delphi is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. This can be one of the causes why DFM files are not compatible with Delphi. The most recent version of Delphi is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Delphi to DFM files

If you have the latest version of Delphi installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage DFM on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Change the default application in Windows

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

Change the default application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected DFM file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select Delphi and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with DFM extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Verify that the DFM is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the DFM file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

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

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the DFM file hinders attempts to open it. 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 DFM file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Ensure the file with DFM extension is complete and error-free

Did you receive the DFM file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with DFM 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

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Delphi Form file again.

4. Check whether your system can handle Delphi

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with DFM extension. In this case close the other applications.

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 Delphi Form files. It may be the case that the DFM files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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