XBM File Extension

What is XBM file?

Full format name of files that use XBM extension is X11 Bitmap Graphic. XBM file format is compatible with software that can be installed on Linux, Mac OS, Windows system platform. Files with XBM extension are categorized as Raster Image Files files. The Raster Image Files subset comprises 522 various file formats. PaintShop Pro supports XBM files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 9 other tools may also be used.

Programs which support XBM file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with XBM files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. XBM 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 XBM extension?

Being unable to open files with XBM extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with XBM extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install PaintShop Pro software

Problems with opening and working with XBM files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with XBM files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install PaintShop Pro or one to the listed programs: ACDSee, XnView, IrfanView. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading PaintShop Pro installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Check the version of PaintShop Pro and update if needed

You still cannot access XBM files although PaintShop Pro is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that PaintShop Pro cannot handle files with XBM may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of PaintShop Pro is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign PaintShop Pro to XBM files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate XBM files with latest version of PaintShop Pro you have installed 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 XBM with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where PaintShop Pro is installed, check the Always use this app to open XBM files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with XBM extension, select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with XBM extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the XBM is not faulty

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

1. Check the XBM file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the XBM is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the XBM file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the XBM file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

If you obtained the problematic XBM file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. If the XBM file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

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 X11 Bitmap Graphic file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run PaintShop Pro

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

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 X11 Bitmap Graphic file. It may be the case that the XBM files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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