File extension .XAR
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
Xara Vector Drawing Format | MAGIX | Vector Image Files |
The XAR ( XAR) file extension is a file format created by Xara Xtreme, primarily used in their flagship illustration, vector graphic, and photo-editing software. It is an ideal format for graphic designers as it supports layers, transparency, alpha-channels, gradients, blends, anti-aliasing and more. For non-designers, they can always use this format to view images as it’s readable by generic image viewers.
Features of the XAR File Format
XAR has a versatile range of features to help create complex illustrations and make editing much easier. This includes but isn’t limited to: full object control sections which allow an image resolution to be set and applied uniformly to the whole object; object vectors which enable manually-edited curves; import/export capability overall file types - including other vector graphics formats like SVG, AI, and CDR, as well as popular raster file types such as JPG, GIF, and PNG. It also includes built-in filter effects to drastically alter an image's look and feel with the added bonus of bitmap magnification to produce smooth production quality images.
Compatibility
In terms of compatibility, the standalone version of Xara Xtreme - previously known as Xara X - supports both reading and writing of XAR files. Additionally, the Windows versions of CorelDraw (version 13 and later) supports opening XAR files as well.
This format is also supported by other vector graphics editors such as Inkscape (since 0.48), Pixopedia Paint Engine (since 2006 R3), DrawPlus (from Serif) (since Version 7), Render Studio (since 2008), and Ultimate Paint (since 2.9). Bitmap image editors like GIMP (from release 2.4 onwards) can open and save as XAR.
Programs for WINDOWS system
Programs for LINUX system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .XAR) 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 .XAR 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 .XAR 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 .XAR 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 .XAR extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .XAR file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .XAR 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 .XAR file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .XAR file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .XAR 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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