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DXF File - What is a .dxf file and how do I open it?
Learn about .DXF files and view a list of programs that open them.
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Overview
What is a DXF file? A DXF file is a data file saved in a format developed by Autodesk and used for CAD (computer-aided design) vector image files, such as AutoCAD documents. DXF files are similar to .DWG files but are more compatible with other programs since they are ASCII (text) based.
More Information DXF file open in Autodesk AutoCAD 2023 Autodesk developed the DXF format as a universal format so that more applications could open AutoCAD documents. For example, you can export 3D models as DXF files with the Valve Hammer Editor, then open and edit them with other 3D modeling applications, such as Autodesk AutoCAD or ACD Systems Canvas. How to create a DXF file The steps for creating a DXF file differ depending on each CAD application. For example, to create a DXF file with AutoCAD, select File → Save As... , then choose the DXF format from the dropdown menu.
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| Developer | Autodesk |
| Popularity |
3.5 | 198 Votes |
What is a DXF file?
A DXF file is a data file saved in a format developed by Autodesk and used for CAD (computer-aided design) vector image files, such as AutoCAD documents. DXF files are similar to .DWG files but are more compatible with other programs since they are ASCII (text) based.
More Information
DXF file open in Autodesk AutoCAD 2023
Autodesk developed the DXF format as a universal format so that more applications could open AutoCAD documents. For example, you can export 3D models as DXF files with the Valve Hammer Editor, then open and edit them with other 3D modeling applications, such as Autodesk AutoCAD or ACD Systems Canvas.
How to create a DXF file
The steps for creating a DXF file differ depending on each CAD application. For example, to create a DXF file with AutoCAD, select File → Save As... , then choose the DXF format from the dropdown menu.
How to open a DXF file
You can open a DXF file with many CAD applications, including Autodesk AutoCAD (multiplatform), CorelCAD , and Adobe Illustrator .
How to convert a DXF file
Several applications, including Autodesk AutoCAD and CorelCAD, can convert DXF files to other formats.
For example, AutoCAD can convert DXF files to the following formats:
Open and view .DXF files with File Viewer Plus . Free Download
Programs that open DXF files
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Autodesk AutoCAD 2025
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Autodesk DWG TrueView
Free
Autodesk Design Review
Free
IMSI TurboCAD Pro
Free Trial
CorelCAD 2023
Free Trial
Canvas GFX Canvas X Pro
Free Trial
Adobe Illustrator 2025
Free Trial
Dassault Systemes SolidWorks eDrawings Viewer
Free
CADSoftTools ABViewer
Free Trial
Scan2CAD
Free Trial
Nevron Software MyDraw
Free Trial
CADSoftTools CST CAD Navigator
Free Trial
Mac
Autodesk AutoCAD 2025
Free Trial
IMSI TurboCAD Deluxe
Free Trial
CorelCAD 2023
Free Trial
Dassault Systemes SolidWorks eDrawings Viewer
Free
Adobe Illustrator 2025
Free Trial
Cheetah3D
Free Trial
Scan2CAD
Free Trial
Nevron Software MyDraw
Free Trial
CADSoftTools CST CAD Navigator
Free Trial
Linux
LibreCAD
Free
CADSoftTools CST CAD Navigator
Free Trial
Web
CAD Rooms
Free Trial
Category: CAD Files
Updated: June 10, 2022