Tips to open PNG file

Can't open the PNG file? You are not the only one. Thousands of users face similar problems every day. Below you will find tips on how to open PNG files as well as a list of programs that support PNG files.

PNG file extension

File Name Portable Network Graphic
File Category Raster Image Files

The PNG file is supported on 3 operating systems. Depending on your operating system, you may need different software to handle the PNG files. Below is a summary of the number of programs that support and open the PNG file on each system platform.

Operating systems
  • 8
  • 6
  • 4
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0

What is PNG file?

A .PNG file is one of the well-known image file formats. It is similar to .GIF files, but it does not allow frame-by-frame animation of the image. It is based on raster graphics and lossless compression. Files in this format may have a separate channel for recording information about transparency, so that graphics or photos may blend with the background. This file can be opened by browsers and graphics editors on all operating systems, although some may have a problem writing the Alpha channel - transparency.

How to open PNG file?

The main problem with Portable Network Graphic is that the PNG file is incorrectly associated with programs. This is manifested by the fact that PNG files open in unusual applications or do not have an assigned program. This can be quickly resolved by following the instructions below.

The first thing you should do is just "doubleclick" on the PNG file icon you want to open. If the operating system has an appropriate application to support it and there is also an association between the file and the program, the file should be opened.

Step 1. Install Apple Preview

The first step is to check if the computer has the Apple Preview program installed. This can be achieved by typing Apple Preview into the operating system search engine. If we do not have this program, it is worth installing it, as it will help you automatically associate the file PNG with Apple Preview. Below you will find a list of applications that support PNG files.

Programs to open PNG file

Remember to download programs supporting PNG files only from verified and safe sources. We suggest using the websites of software developers.

Step 2. Create association of Apple Preview with PNG files

If, despite the installed application, the PNG file does not start in the Apple Preview application, you must create a file association. The association can be created using the drop-down list available by right-clicking on the file and selecting Properties. The displayed window will contain information about the program that supports this type of file. Using the "Change" button we can set the program to handle this type. It may happen that in the next window there will be no appropriate program - however, this can be corrected with the "Browse" option where you should manually indicate the program location. Checking the "Always use the selected program ..." box will permanently associate the PNG file with the Apple Preview program.

Step 3. Update Apple Preview to the latest version

If, however, after binding Apple Preview with Portable Network Graphic there were still problems, you should update the program to the latest version.

Step 4. Check for the following problems with the PNG file

Of course, it may happen that despite the above steps, the file still does not work. This could be due to the file itself, the cleanest issues are:

The PNG file may be unusually small compared to the original file. This is most often caused by a problem while downloading the PNG file. Downloading the file again should fix the problem.
The most common cause here is computer viruses. Perform a virus scan using available and up-to-date anti-virus software. Alternatively, you can use the scanners available online. The scan should cover the entire computer, not only the PNG file that we want to open. Sometimes virus-infected PNG files cannot be recovered, so make a backup in advance.
A typical compatibility error - the program does not support the older version of the PNG file. Help should be sought from the software developer, as they usually recommend using free file converters or installing an older version of the program.
The file may be corrupted in a number of ways. Repairing is very dependent on the file type. Some programs offer the ability to automatically repair PNG file corruption.
The program can also signal the fact of encryption. The encrypted PNG files can be used by the device on which they were encrypted, on any other device it is required to have the appropriate cryptographic key and decrypt the file before its recovery.
Some operating systems do not allow file operations in certain locations, eg in system directories or directly on the system drive. The problem is only writing to the file, not reading it. If possible, you can try to move the PNG file to another location.
This problem usually affects more complex files. In this case, the PNG file is blocked by the first application to open it. Just close unnecessary programs. Sometimes you have to wait for the session to the file PNG to close. Some anti-virus or backup software may occupy the PNG file for a certain period of time. If nothing helps, please reset the device.