File extension .AUX
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
TeX/LaTeX Auxiliary References Format | N/A | Settings Files |
The AUX file extension is associated with the TeX/LaTeX document preparation system, used widely by mathematicians, scientists and academics to produce high quality written material. It is a simple plain text-based format that stores intermediate information used by TeX/LaTeX during the document creation process.
The AUX file is created automatically when you compile a TeX/LaTeX document. While it is usually regenerated each time you compile a document, it is important to keep a copy as it can contain essential information about a project which is stored and used between compilations. Such information may include formatting details, page layout options and changes made using internal control sequences such as those stored in the TEX file.
Similar File Extensions
Other file extensions associated with the fabric of TeX/LaTeX documents are .dtx, .pgf, .ins, and .lof.
Functionality of the AUX File
The AUX file works as an intermediary between the source files such as .tex, and any output formats such as .pdf. This intermediary allows TeX/LaTeX to store key attributes of any elements of your document, such as page numbers, labels for cross-references and any other environments specific to the TeX/LaTeX system.
Backing Up AUX Files.
Since these files are regenerated each time you run the compiler, they do not need to be saved to an external location. However, should something go wrong with the files or project during compilation, having a backup of any relevant AUX files can help you access any previous versions of your original document, as well as any other attributes attached to it.
Programs for MAC system
Programs for LINUX system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .AUX) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .AUX extension.
When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.
Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .AUX file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .AUX extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .AUX extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .AUX file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .AUX file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.
In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .AUX file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .AUX file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .AUX file has no errors
- or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly
Author’s guidelines

Mr B. Adam
Author of the guidelines / Founder of FileExtension.info
New technologies enthusiast, helping to solve problems with the files.
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