File extension .GIF
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Graphics Interchange File Format | N/A | Raster Image Files |
The Graphics Interchange Format File ( .GIF) is a raster image type used for storing bitmap images. It was first developed by CompuServe in 1987 and has been widely adopted since then, being particularly popular on the World Wide Web.
A.GIF file contains up to 256 distinct colors chosen from the 24-bit RGB color space. It is limited to a maximum dimension of W pixels by H pixels and a maximum file size of 250 kB, making it well-suited for small graphics like icons and website images. The.GIF format stores multiple bitmap images in a single file, using 256-color technology to compress the images to reduce their size. It also supports transparent backgrounds for non-square pictures and animation, which has made it popular for web graphics.
File Type
The.GIF files are small and compressed old-style image format that is often used for logo graphics, illustrations, and images with flat colors. Multiple.GIF files may be combined into one animated GIF, in order to make simple animations such as banners. It supports animated graphics and supports layers over 24-bit color depth.
File Extension Support
.GIF files are typically opened and edited with software such as Adobe Photoshop, ImageMagick, Microsoft Paint, Adobe Illustrator, or CorelDRAW. Similarly named or related image files include: .JPG, .JPEG, .PNG, .TIFF, .BMP, .EPS, .SVG, .XPM, and .CUR.
Security Concerns
Due to its widespread prevalence and acceptance on the internet,.GIF files can be used as a malicious vector for malware delivery and transmission of malicious code. As with most files with a graphical user interface (GUI), they can also pose a risk of cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks, browser hijacking, and other security exploits.
Programs for WINDOWS system
Adobe Photoshop 
Adobe Illustrator 
CorelDRAW 
PaintShop Pro 
ACDSee 
PaperPort - Web browser
Microsoft Expression Design 
Paint.NET 
Adobe Fireworks 
XnView 
IrfanView 
Adobe Premiere Pro 
FastStone Image Viewer 
Ability Photopaint - PhotoOnWeb
- Zoner GIF Animator
- Artweaver
FastPictureViewer Professional 
ACDSee Photo Manager 
FormatFactory 
Axialis IconWorkshop - SWFTools
- ThunderSoft GIF to AVI Converter
Adobe Creative Suite
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 .GIF) 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 .GIF 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 .GIF 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 .GIF 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 .GIF extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .GIF file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .GIF 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 .GIF file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .GIF file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .GIF 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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