KRA File Extension

What is KRA file?

Images created or edited in the raster graphics editor Krita are by default saved in files with the .KRA extension. These files save the image or photograph in a lossless manner along with working elements, hence they might take up a significant amount of storage space. This is a format similar in utility to working files in other graphic editing programs, such as PSD or XCF. The files are in the ZIP archive format, with strictly specified components in an open specification. They can be compressed, in which case they have the .KRZ extension.

What elements are stored in KRA files?

• Image layers,
• Adjustment layers,
• Applied masks,
• Adjusted color spaces
• and other elements specific to the Krita software.

Editing raster graphics may rely on a variety of differing tools, animations, masks. KRA files also contain a mergedimage.png file that is the rendered graphics visible within the program.

Handling and exporting .KRA files

KRA images are the native save format for Krita. It is free, open-source, available on Windows, Linux, and MacOS. However, once the editing of the file is concluded, to share the work results, the graphic should be saved in another format. This requires the use of an export tool that is part of the program. With its help, you can save them as JPEG, PNG, or GIF images.

Programs which support KRA file extension

Programs that can handle KRA files are as follows. KRA files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 03/05/2024

How to open file with KRA extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening KRA files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with KRA files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Download and install Krita

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening KRA files is that no program that can handle KRA files is installed on user’s system. The solution to this problem is very simple. Download Krita and install it on your device. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support KRA files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. If you want to download Krita installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit website and download from their official repositories.

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

You still cannot access KRA files although Krita 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. This can be one of the causes why KRA files are not compatible with Krita. The latest version of Krita should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open KRA files to Krita

After installing Krita (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open KRA 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

• Right-click the KRA file and choose Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Krita installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open KRA 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 KRA extension, select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select Krita and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with KRA extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the KRA for errors

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

1. Verify that the KRA in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the KRA 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. If the KRA file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

Did you receive the KRA 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 KRA 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

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. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Krita

If the systems has insufficient resources to open KRA 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 Krita Image Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle KRA files.

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