DWL File Extension

What is DWL file?

DWL files are created with the TurboCad – software for 2D and 3D designing, it functions as a blocking file. This means, that the file is generated for purpose of blocking information, when the target file (TCW) containing the project, is opened within the program.

Additional information on DWL files

1. DWL blocking file is created in order to protect against potential access to the target file (TCS) by more than one person at the same time, which would lead to its damaging. Nevertheless, users have access to the file and can display it, the blockade concerns introducing modifications in the target file, while someone else is using it. Blockade is possible due to information contained within the DWL file.
2. DWL file is created temporarily and it is deleted automatically after a project is being closed. However, it is possible that the file will not be deleted, for instance in case of power malfunction and turning off of a device.
3. Moreover, it happens often that the DWL files are not automatically deleted after a crush of the program. In such case, they should be deleted manually.

Content of DWL file

User may open a DWL file with a simple notebook. Its content include: user name, name of a computer, time marker, and name of the file – information which is used for initialising and ending the process of blocking a project file.

Programs which support DWL file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support DWL files. DWL files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 10/26/2019

How to open file with DWL extension?

Being unable to open files with DWL extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with DWL extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Get the TurboCAD

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening DWL files is that no program that can handle DWL files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing TurboCAD or different compatible program, such as AutoCAD. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading TurboCAD installed is by going to developer’s website (IMSI/Design, LLC.) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of TurboCAD

If the problems with opening DWL files still occur even after installing TurboCAD, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of TurboCAD is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that TurboCAD cannot handle files with DWL may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of TurboCAD should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate TurboCAD Drawing Lock Format files with TurboCAD

After installing TurboCAD (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open DWL files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the DWL file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the TurboCAD installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open DWL 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 DWL extension, 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 DWL extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the DWL is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the DWL file in question. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

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

Should it happed that the DWL is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing 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 DWL file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

Did you receive the DWL 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. If the DWL file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

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. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the TurboCAD Drawing Lock Format file again.

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

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

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

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with TurboCAD Drawing Lock Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the DWL files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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