SVG File Extension

What is SVG file?

The SVG abbreviation stands for Scalable Vector Graphics and it is a format of a 2D graphic file. SVG is a type of language which aim is to describe 2D graphic with text based on the XML structure. The SVG format was developed within World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) and it is a standard format for displaying vector graphic in Internet, and the biggest effort put in development of it was made by the Adobe company.

Possibilities of SVG files

Because of the fact that in order to describe vector graphic, text is used, scale of an SVG file can be easily changed with no quality loss. To put it simpler – content of the file – an image, can be displayed in any size.

SVG fiels can be also compressed using GZIP compression, after which format of the file is being changed into SVGZ and the final size will be smaller about 50-80 %.

Use of SVG files

Due to its textual nature based on the XML, SVG fiels enable to search, index, compress and program content, which perfectly corresponds with the idea of sharing graphic in Internet. Thanks to that, the SVG format is widely supported by Internet browsers, which are able to render images utilising this standard. Of course the SVG fiels are also supported by standard text editors and more advanced graphic editors.

Programs which support SVG file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 4 operating systems that support SVG files. Files with SVG 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: 04/09/2023

How to open file with SVG extension?

Problems with accessing SVG may be due to various reasons. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Scalable Vector Graphics 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 SVG files.

Step 1. Install Adobe Illustrator software

Problems with opening and working with SVG files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with SVG files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install Adobe Illustrator or one to the listed programs: CorelDRAW, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Flash Player. 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 Adobe Illustrator installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Adobe Systems Incorporated website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Adobe Illustrator

If the problems with opening SVG files still occur even after installing Adobe Illustrator, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Adobe Illustrator is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. This can be one of the causes why SVG files are not compatible with Adobe Illustrator. The latest version of Adobe Illustrator should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Adobe Illustrator to SVG files

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

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the SVG file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where Adobe Illustrator is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open SVG files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

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

Step 4. Verify that the SVG is not faulty

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 SVG file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Verify that the SVG in question is not infected with a computer virus

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

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic SVG 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 SVG 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

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Scalable Vector Graphics Format file again.

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

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

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

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

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the SVG 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 SVG file.