PRN File Extension

What is PRN file?

File with PRN extension stores content ready for print. PRN is a generic extension used by many applications. PRN file can be based on PostScript language, may be specific to an operating system, application, or created for specific printing device and its drivers. PRN file can store:

• Formatted text,
• Graphics data, images,
• Graphs and tables,
• Instructions for printers, for example number of pages, print style, etc.

PRN files can store data in binary or text format. PRN files are generated using ‘Print to file’ command. In Windows, users can print some PRN files using Microsoft Office Document Imaging program or command line by sending directly to the printer. Mac OS allows users to drag PRN file onto printer icon to print the file. If PRN file in question is based on XML Paper Specification standard developed by Microsoft, its suffix can be changed into XPS a nd opened using appropriate file manager.

Programs which support PRN file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open PRN files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with PRN 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: 02/08/2022

How to open file with PRN extension?

Being unable to open files with PRN extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Printable Format 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 PRN files.

Step 1. Install Canvas software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports PRN files installed on the system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Canvas or different compatible program, such as Microsoft Office, AllWeb FastPrint, Windows Notepad. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. If you want to download Canvas installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit ACD Systems International Inc. website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update Canvas to the latest version

If the problems with opening PRN files still occur even after installing Canvas, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Canvas 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 Canvas installed, it may not support PRN format. The most recent version of Canvas is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open PRN files to Canvas

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate PRN files with latest version of Canvas you have installed on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the PRN file and choose Open with option
• 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 Canvas installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open PRN 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 PRN extension, select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select Canvas and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with PRN extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the PRN is not faulty

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

1. Check the PRN file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the PRN file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the PRN file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

Did you receive the PRN 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. When downloading the file with PRN 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 Printable Format file.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Canvas

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

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

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Printable Format file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle PRN files.

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