GXL File Extension

What is GXL file?

Full format name of files that use GXL extension is Graph Exchange Language Format. Graph Exchange Language Format specification was created by R. C. Holt. Files with GXL extension may be used by programs distributed for Linux, Mac OS, Windows platform. GXL file format, along with 1326 other file formats, belongs to the Data Files category. Graphviz supports GXL files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 5 other tools may also be used. On the official website of Graphviz Team developer not only will you find detailed information about theGraphviz software, but also about GXL and other supported file formats.

Programs which support GXL file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open GXL files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with GXL extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

How to open file with GXL extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening GXL files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with GXL extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install Graphviz

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports GXL files installed on the system. This one is an easy one. Select Graphviz or one of the recommended programs (for example, jGraph) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support GXL files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading Graphviz installed is by going to developer’s website (Graphviz Team) and downloading the software using provided links.

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

You still cannot access GXL files although Graphviz is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. 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 GXL files are not compatible with Graphviz. The latest version of Graphviz should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Graphviz to GXL files

After installing Graphviz (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open GXL files. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the GXL file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Graphviz installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open GXL files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected GXL file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with GXL extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the GXL 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 GXL file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

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

Should it happed that the GXL is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the GXL file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the GXL file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic GXL file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. If the GXL 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. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Graph Exchange Language Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Graphviz

If the systems has insufficient resources to open GXL files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Graph Exchange Language Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle GXL files.

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