File extension .PRN
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
Generally Printer Output Format | N/A | Layout Files |
The .PRN file extension is a bitmapped printable document created with a printer driver. This particular file type contains data that has already been prepared to be printed from any application and can also be sent directly to a network-connected printer to be printed. A .PRN file is both small in size and easy to create, lowering the associated costs to distribute or share. Additionally, many programs offer the ability to save directly into this file type which maintains the original formatting of the document or graphic.
Printable File Formatting
The .PRN file stores the same content and formats as other more common document types, such as .TXT, .DOC, and .DOCX. As it is a binary graphic with native compatibility on many computer systems, it provides secure and efficient printing of documents. The main purpose of .PRN files is being used as an intermediate format between applications and printers.
Compatibility And Viewability
PostScript Printer Description (PPD) files are commonly associated with .PRN, providing a compatibility tool that enables users across a variety of software and hardware platforms to share documents reliably. To make these files viewable by programs, users may need to open them within an image viewer or text editor that supports the interpreting of its code. Nevertheless, users should not alter any data stored in a .PRN file as doing so will render the file useless for printing purposes.
Programs for WINDOWS system
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 .PRN) 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 .PRN 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 .PRN 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 .PRN 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 .PRN extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .PRN file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .PRN 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 .PRN file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .PRN file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .PRN 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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