PPD File Extension

What is PPD file?

PPD is a system file associated with PostScript. PPD files store PostScript printer settings, including:

• font settings,
• page size and format,
• image resolution (dpi),
• printer queue settings.

Additionally, PPD can contain scripts written in PostScript and which can be invoked during printing.

PostScript

PostScript is a page description language. It is used for defining pages for printing using PostScript drivers. PostScript was created by Adobe Systems in 1982 and is chiefly used in publishing. PostScript is also a general-purpose programming language, but its mainly designed for printing and publishing business.

Programs which support PPD file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open PPD files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. Files with PPD 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.

Updated: 08/02/2022

How to open file with PPD extension?

Being unable to open files with PPD extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with PPD 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 Referenced by the printer

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening PPD files is that no program that can handle PPD files is installed on user’s system. The solution is straightforward, just download and install Referenced by the printer. 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 Referenced by the printer website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of Referenced by the printer and update if needed

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with opening PPD files still occur even after installing Referenced by the printer, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software.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

Step 3. Set the default application to open PPD files to Referenced by the printer

After installing Referenced by the printer (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open PPD files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the PPD file
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Referenced by the printer is installed, check the Always use this app to open PPD files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with PPD extension, select 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....
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with PPD extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the PPD for 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 PPD file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the PPD file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the PPD 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 scanner detected that the PPD file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

If the PPD file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. When downloading the file with PPD extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative 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 PostScript Printer Description Format file.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Referenced by the printer

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

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

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

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