TFW File Extension

What is TFW file?

Files with TFW extension store various GIS (Geographic Information System) data.

What kind of data is stored in TFW files?

Files with TFW extension are used for storing the following information:

• location coordinates,
• map in TIFF format,
• map scale.

TFW files are structurally similar to JPW files, which are also used for storing GIS data. TFW are commonly used for storing precise satellite imagery data.

What is GIS?

GIS is an information system for storing coordinates, images, and other terrain and geographical data. GIS information is fully processable. GIS, which uses TFW file standard, was developed as a system of standards for fast and efficient storage, analysis, processing, and visualization of spatial and geographical data.

What type of data is stored in TFW files?

TFW files store information in plain text. TFW files store spatial information including spatial coordinates, X and Y pixel dimensions, and map rotation parameters.

Programs which support TFW file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open TFW files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. Files with TFW 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: 07/17/2023

How to open file with TFW extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening TFW files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with TFW files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Download and install ArcReader

Problems with opening and working with TFW files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with TFW files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install ArcReader or one to the listed programs: ArcGIS Desktop. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit ArcReader website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of ArcReader

If you already have ArcReader installed on your systems and TFW files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. If you have an older version of ArcReader installed, it may not support TFW format. The most recent version of ArcReader is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate World Format For TIFF files with ArcReader

If you have the latest version of ArcReader installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage TFW on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Clicking the TFW 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
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where ArcReader is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open TFW files and clicking OK.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the TFW file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with TFW extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Verify that the TFW 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 TFW file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

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

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

2. Ensure the file with TFW extension is complete and error-free

Did you receive the TFW 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 TFW 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.

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the World Format For TIFF file again.

4. Check whether your system can handle ArcReader

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

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

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

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