All about DW_ Files

The DW_ file type is primarily associated with Autodesk AutoCAD.

DW_	File extension: DW_
	File type:	AutoCAD backup file

What is a DW_ file?

DW_ files mostly belong to Autodesk AutoCAD. A *.DW_ file is a backup file created by AutoCAD, a computer-aided design (CAD) software application developed by Autodesk. It is essentially a temporary copy of a *.DWG file, AutoCAD's native drawing format. These files are automatically generated whenever a *.DWG file is saved, providing a readily available backup in case the original file becomes corrupted or lost. The *.DW_ file shares the same format as the original *.DWG file, allowing for seamless restoration of the drawing data. While associated with MicroStation by some sources, the *.DW_ extension is primarily and overwhelmingly linked to AutoCAD. Therefore, the *.DW_ file serves as a crucial safety net within the AutoCAD environment, ensuring data integrity and facilitating recovery from unforeseen circumstances.

How to open a DW_ file

You need a suitable software like Autodesk AutoCAD to open a DW_ file. You need a suitable software like Autodesk AutoCAD to open a DW_ file. Without proper software you will receive a Windows message "How do you want to open this file?" or "Windows cannot open this file" or a similar Mac/iPhone/Android alert. If you cannot open your DW_ file correctly, try to right-click or long-press the file. Then click "Open with" and choose an application. You can also display a DW_ file directly in the browser:. Just drag the file onto this browser window and drop it.

Online DW_ Text Viewer

Choose your .dw_ file to analyze

or drag and drop it here

Online File Viewer

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Unable to Open a .DW_ File? Quick Solutions:

Because .DW_ files can originate from various programs, they aren't universally openable with a single application.

Identify the Source: If received from an architect or engineer, it is likely an Autodesk AutoCAD backup file or a compressed installation file.
Check the Header: Open the file in a hex editor to inspect its first bytes:
- AC10 indicates an AutoCAD drawing format.
- MSCF suggests a Microsoft Cabinet compressed file.
- PK means it's a standard ZIP archive.
Use the Original Software: You will usually need the original program, such as Autodesk AutoCAD, DWG TrueView, or a file archiver like 7-Zip. If uncertain, ask the sender.
Use this Webpage: Drag and drop your .DW_ file onto this page to automatically detect its format, extract metadata, and preview its contents.

Technical Data for DW_ File Extension

File classification:

CAD file

Related files:

dw, pd_, cuix, qaf, hpg

a dw_ AutoCAD backup file is a special file format and should only be edited and saved with the appropriate software.

How to solve problems with DW_ files

Associate the DW_ file extension with the correct application.
Update your software that should actually open autocad backup files. Because only the current version supports the latest DW_ file format. Search, therefore, e.g. on the manufacturer website after an available Autodesk AutoCAD update.
To make sure that your DW_ file is not corrupted or virus-infected, get the file again and scan it with Google's virustotal.com.
Click here to open your .DW_ file online - secure, fast, and no downloads needed.