RW2 File Extension

What is RW2 file?

Files in the RW2 format are used to store RAW raster images captured with a Panasonic device. RW2 files contain uncompressed and unprocessed digital images data, provided directly from the optics of a camera.

Additional information about RW2 files

Due to its raw form, files in the RW2 format use a lot of disc space. Because of such storing method, it is possible to edit much data of the image, for instance – its exposition, contrast, colour saturation, etc..

RW2 files cannot be previewed, printed or edited with standard graphic edition programs, but only using specialised tools for processing raw images. Such files are utilised mainly in the Lumix series Panasonic devices.

Programs which support RW2 file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open RW2 files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. RW2 files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 05/11/2022

How to open file with RW2 extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening RW2 files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with RW2 extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with RW2 files.

Step 1. Install Adobe Photoshop Elements software

Problems with opening and working with RW2 files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with RW2 files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install Adobe Photoshop Elements or one to the listed programs: ACDSee, PaintShop Pro, Adobe DNG Converter. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support RW2 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 Adobe Photoshop Elements website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update Adobe Photoshop Elements to the latest version

You still cannot access RW2 files although Adobe Photoshop Elements is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. 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 Adobe Photoshop Elements installed, it may not support RW2 format. The most recent version of Adobe Photoshop Elements is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open RW2 files to Adobe Photoshop Elements

After installing Adobe Photoshop Elements (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open RW2 files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the RW2 file
• 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 Adobe Photoshop Elements installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open RW2 files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the RW2 file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with RW2 extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the RW2 is not faulty

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the RW2 file is valid. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Check the RW2 file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the RW2 is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the RW2 file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the RW2 file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Verify that the RW2 file’s structure is intact

If the RW2 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. It could happen the the download process of file with RW2 extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

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

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle Adobe Photoshop Elements

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with RW2 extension. In this case close the other applications.

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 Panasonic RAW Image file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle RW2 files.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the RW2 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 RW2 file.