WLD File Extension

What is WLD file?

WLD is a file extension commonly associated with ESRI World Format files. ESRI World Format specification was created by ESRI. WLD files are supported by software applications available for devices running Linux, Windows. WLD file belongs to the GIS Files category just like 255 other filename extensions listed in our database. The most popular program for handling WLD files is ArcGIS Desktop, but users can choose among 1 different programs that support this file format. ArcGIS Desktop software was developed by Esri, and on its official website you may find more information about WLD files or the ArcGIS Desktop software program.

Programs which support WLD file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support WLD files. WLD files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

How to open file with WLD extension?

Being unable to open files with WLD extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with WLD files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install ArcGIS Desktop software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening WLD files is that no program that can handle WLD files is installed on user’s system. The most obvious solution is to download and install ArcGIS Desktop or one to the listed programs: GDAL. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download ArcGIS Desktop installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Esri website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of ArcGIS Desktop

If the problems with opening WLD files still occur even after installing ArcGIS Desktop, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of ArcGIS Desktop 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 ArcGIS Desktop installed, it may not support WLD format. The latest version of ArcGIS Desktop should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open WLD files to ArcGIS Desktop

If you have the latest version of ArcGIS Desktop installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage WLD 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

• Right-click the WLD file and choose Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the ArcGIS Desktop installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open WLD files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected WLD file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with WLD extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

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

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 WLD file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the WLD file for viruses or malware

If the WLD is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the WLD file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the WLD file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the WLD 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. It could happen the the download process of file with WLD 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.

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the ESRI World Format file.

4. Check whether your system can handle ArcGIS Desktop

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

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with ESRI World Format files. It may be the case that the WLD files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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