File extension .DWG
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
AutoCAD Drawing Format | Autodesk | CAD Files |
The DWG file (short for "drawing") is an AutoCAD drawing database file used to store two and three-dimensional design data and metadata. It is a proprietary format created and controlled by Autodesk to store CAD data and in some instances it can also include user-defined object data. The latest version of the DWG file format released by Autodesk is AutoCAD 2020 DWG. DWG files can be opened by a variety of programs, such as AutoCAD and LT, as well as the open-source software program called LibreCAD.
DWG File Structure
The DWG file format contains both binary and plain ASCII elements containing object definitions, typesmetadata, and raster image data. It stores object data in a database structure similar to the Windows registry. It consists of sections that contain records, which in turn contain data fields and links to other records or binary objects. The sections are SecHeader, SecClasses, SecObjects, SecEntities, SecBlocks, SectionsTexts, SectionsLayers, and SecTables. In addition to the elements of the drawing database and metadata about the drawing, DWG files may also contain properties for the document view such as style sheets, grid sizes, layer properties, color settings etc.
Similar File Types
The DWG file type is closely related to newer versions of .DWF, .DXF, .DXB, and .SVF.
Programs for WINDOWS system
AutoCAD
Autodesk Design Review
DWG TrueView
DWGSee
ABViewer
TurboCAD
DoubleCAD
Canvas
CorelCAD
progeCAD
ArchiCAD
Adobe Illustrator
DrawPlus
Bricsys Bricscad
DraftSight
DWG DXF Sharp Viewer
Autodesk Inventor
Pro/Engineer
Solid Edge
SolidWorks
SketchUp
eDrawings Viewer
CorelDraw Graphics Suite
Any PDF to DWG Converter
CATIA
Programs for MAC system
Programs for LINUX system
Programs for Android system
Programs for IOS system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .DWG) 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 .DWG 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 .DWG 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 .DWG 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 .DWG extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .DWG file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .DWG 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 .DWG file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .DWG file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .DWG 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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