PSP File Extension

What is PSP file?

PSP is a graphics file format used for storing raster images. The format can also be used for creating layers based on vector images. PSP is the default format in which PaintShop Pro saves created projects, but many other graphics editors also support it. In addition to image data stored as layers, PSP files store color palette information and layers settings.

PaintShop Pro

PaintShop Pro is sometimes called a “cheaper Photoshop”. The program is often called simply PSP after the file format it uses. PaintShop Pro, now developed and maintained by Corel, is not as feature-rich as Adobe Photoshop, and is intended to be used as more as a macro image editor than advanced graphics editor and authoring tool.

Programs which support PSP file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support PSP files. PSP files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 12/13/2022

How to open file with PSP extension?

Problems with accessing PSP may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with PSP files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with PSP files.

Step 1. Get the PaintShop Pro

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening PSP files is that no program that can handle PSP files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select PaintShop Pro or one of the recommended programs (for example, CorelDRAW, Canvas, VideoStudio Pro) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support PSP files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit PaintShop Pro website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update PaintShop Pro to the latest version

If the problems with opening PSP files still occur even after installing PaintShop Pro, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of PaintShop Pro is available. 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 PSP files are not compatible with PaintShop Pro. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using PaintShop Pro.

Step 3. Assign PaintShop Pro to PSP files

If you have the latest version of PaintShop Pro installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage PSP on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Clicking the PSP 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
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where PaintShop Pro is installed, check the Always use this app to open PSP files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the PSP file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select PaintShop Pro and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with PSP extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

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

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

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

If the PSP 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. PSP file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic PSP file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. When downloading the file with PSP extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

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 Paint Shop Pro Image Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open PaintShop Pro

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

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 Paint Shop Pro Image Format files. It may be the case that the PSP files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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