OSM File Extension

What is OSM file?

OSM (short for OpenStreetMap) is a file format used by OpenStreetMap software. OSM files contain street map information , and can store data for areas of varied sizes – from small regions to global street networks.

XML architecture

OSM files saved data in XML format, and as such can sometimes use compound suffix, i.e.,. osm.xml.

Data scheme

OSM files store data in a structured manner. Street nodes are represented as points, streets are represented as lines that connect those nodes, and relations store properties of streets, point, and objects.

Main OSM file

Planet.OSM is the main OpenStreetMap file, which can be accessed and modified by adding new streets by any user. Users can add new street or edit those already included.

Programs which support OSM file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support OSM files. Files with OSM suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 02/16/2020

How to open file with OSM extension?

Being unable to open files with OSM extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with OSM 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. Install FME Desktop software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening OSM files is that no program that can handle OSM files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select FME Desktop or one of the recommended programs (for example, Merkaartor, GeoVisu, GPX Viewer) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit FME Desktop website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update FME Desktop to the latest version

If you already have FME Desktop installed on your systems and OSM files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. 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 OSM files are not compatible with FME Desktop. The latest version of FME Desktop should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign FME Desktop to OSM files

After installing FME Desktop (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open OSM files. 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 OSM with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where FME Desktop is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open OSM files and clicking OK.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected OSM file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with OSM extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the OSM is not faulty

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

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

Should it happed that the OSM 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 OSM file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If the OSM file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with OSM extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the OpenStreetMap Map Format file.

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

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

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 OpenStreetMap Map Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle OSM files.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the OSM file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on OSM file.