SKB file format is used to store backup copy of 3D model created with SketchUp software developed by Google. It contains a carbon copy of model data stored in the original file.
SKB file is automatically generated by the program when auto-save function is enabled. This file serves as a backup copy in case the original file becomes corrupted or deleted. SKB file is always saved in the same file folder the main file containing 3D model data is located in.
BothWindows and Mac OS X offer support for SKB file format as SketchUp utility was designed from the ground up with those operating systems in mind. Windows stores SKB files as [filename.skb], and in Mac OS X as [filename]~.skb.
Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open SKB files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. Files with SKB 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: 12/21/2019
Being unable to open files with SKB extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to SketchUp Backup Document 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 SKB files.
Problems with opening and working with SKB files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with SKB files being present on your machine. To address this issue, go to the SketchUp developer website, download the tool, and install it. It is that easy 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 SketchUp installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Trimble Navigation Limited website and download from their official repositories.
If the problems with opening SKB files still occur even after installing SketchUp, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of SketchUp is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. If you have an older version of SketchUp installed, it may not support SKB format. The latest version of SketchUp should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.
After installing SketchUp (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open SKB files. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.
Change the default application in Windows
Change the default application in Mac OS
Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the SKB file is valid. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.
If the SKB 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 SKB file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.
If the SKB file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. 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 SKB extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.
Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the SketchUp Backup Document file again.
If the systems has insufficient resources to open SKB files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.
Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with SketchUp Backup Document files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with SKB files affecting older versions of given software.
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