PAINT File Extension

What is PAINT file?

PAINT is a file extension commonly associated with Apple Macintosh MacPaint Bitmap files. Files with PAINT extension may be used by programs distributed for Mac OS, Windows platform. Files with PAINT extension are categorized as Graphic Files files. The Graphic Files subset comprises 524 various file formats. Users are advised to use XnView software for managing PAINT files, although 1 other programs can also handle this type of file. On the official website of Pierre-Emmanuel Gougelet developer not only will you find detailed information about theXnView software, but also about PAINT and other supported file formats.

Programs which support PAINT file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support PAINT files. Files with PAINT 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 PAINT extension?

Problems with accessing PAINT may be due to various reasons. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Apple Macintosh MacPaint Bitmap 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 PAINT files.

Step 1. Download and install XnView

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports PAINT files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install XnView or one to the listed programs: MacPaint. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download XnView installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Pierre-Emmanuel Gougelet website and download from their official repositories.

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

If you already have XnView installed on your systems and PAINT files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why PAINT files are not compatible with XnView. The latest version of XnView should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign XnView to PAINT files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate PAINT files with latest version of XnView you have installed on your device. 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

• Right-click the PAINT file and choose Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where XnView is installed, check the Always use this app to open PAINT files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected PAINT 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....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with PAINT extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the PAINT file is complete and free of errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the PAINT file is valid. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the PAINT file for viruses or malware

If the PAINT is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the PAINT file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

If you obtained the problematic PAINT file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with PAINT 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. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open XnView

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

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 Apple Macintosh MacPaint Bitmap files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with PAINT files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the PAINT 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 PAINT file.