WRL File Extension

What is WRL file?

WRL file extension is used by VRML (Virtual Reality Modeling Language). WRL is the standard format for interactive 3D vector graphics designed mainly for WWW applications. WRL files contain virtual reality description, including information such as 3D view starting point, coordinates, objects, colors, textures, properties of scene elements, as well as scenes’ objects and shapes.

WRL files, the so called ”worlds”

WRL files, commonly refered to as ”worlds”, store data in ASCII text format. WRL virtual worlds allow users to navigate freely in all 3 directions.

Additional information

1. WRL files are commonly used by web browser plugins for generating 3D virtual reality environments.

2. Although WRL files store data in plain text, they can be compressed using GZIP – such files have the WRZ extension.

3. WRL file format was replaced by X3D (Extensible 3D) format.

Programs which support WRL file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 4 operating systems that support WRL files. WRL files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 05/28/2022

How to open file with WRL extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening WRL files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with WRL 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. Get the TurboCAD

Problems with opening and working with WRL files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with WRL files being present on your machine. This one is an easy one. Select TurboCAD or one of the recommended programs (for example, XnView, Blender, FreeWRL) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. The safest method of downloading TurboCAD installed is by going to developer’s website (IMSI/Design, LLC.) and downloading the software using provided links.

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

If the problems with opening WRL files still occur even after installing TurboCAD, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software.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

Step 3. Set the default application to open WRL files to TurboCAD

If you have the latest version of TurboCAD installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage WRL on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Change the default application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the WRL file
• 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 TurboCAD is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open WRL files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

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

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

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the WRL file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. The WRL may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the WRL 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 WRL file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If the WRL file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with WRL extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the VRML World file again.

4. Check whether your system can handle TurboCAD

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

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

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

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