.DXF File Extension

Drawing Exchange Format File

A DXF file, short for Drawing Exchange Format (sometimes also referred to as Drawing Interchange Format), is a type of data file developed by Autodesk specifically for CAD applications. It was introduced in 1982 with AutoCAD 1.0, initially supporting only ASCII encoding. In 1988, with the release of AutoCAD 10, Autodesk added support for a binary DXF format as well. The goal behind the DXF format was to create a universal standard that would enable the exchange of design data between AutoCAD and other programs, ensuring compatibility across different platforms and applications.

DXF files are similar to Autodesk’s native DWG format but differ in one key aspect: they are ASCII-based (text), which makes them more accessible for other software to read and interpret. Each element in a DXF file is represented by a group code, which identifies the type and attributes of the elements, allowing it to store a broad range of data, including geometry, text, and metadata related to a CAD drawing. Because of this structure, DXF files can be opened, edited, and shared across various CAD programs, making them a favored format for interoperability.

DXF files are commonly used for creating and exchanging 2D and 3D designs in various industries, particularly architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. Many users utilize DXF files to move design data between different applications, including not only Autodesk AutoCAD but also programs like CorelCAD, Adobe Illustrator, ACD Systems Canvas, and SolidWorks. Designers can export their models in DXF format and later modify or view them in other specialized applications.

One notable aspect of the DXF format is that while it has been around for over four decades, it remains a crucial part of the CAD ecosystem. Its longevity is largely due to its flexibility and wide compatibility with different software platforms, which makes it ideal for file sharing across programs that might not natively support the DWG format. Additionally, over the years, Autodesk has openly published DXF specifications, enabling third-party developers to create tools that can read or write DXF files, further cementing its role as a de facto standard in CAD data interchange.

How to Open .DXF as Drawing Exchange Format File

A wide range of CAD applications support DXF files, so opening one is usually straightforward. Autodesk’s own AutoCAD is the most well-known software that works with DXF files, but many others, such as CorelCAD, Adobe Illustrator, TurboCAD, and SolidWorks eDrawings Viewer, are also capable of reading and editing them. For simpler viewing, you can use lightweight programs like Autodesk DWG TrueView or even dedicated viewers like ABViewer or Scan2CAD. On Linux, LibreCAD is a popular choice, while on macOS, programs like TurboCAD Deluxe or Cheetah3D are often used.

Applications That Open DXF Files

Windows Apps for DXF Files:

• LibreCAD Free
• Autodesk Design Review Free
• Autodesk DWG TrueView Free
• Scan2CAD Free Trial
• Adobe Illustrator Free Trial
• Autodesk AutoCAD Free Trial
• IMSI TurboCAD Deluxe Free Trial
• CST CAD Navigator Free Trial
• CADSoftTools ABViewer Free Trial
• Canvas GFX Canvas X Pro Free Trial

macOS Apps for DXF Files:

• LibreCAD Free
• Scan2CAD Free Trial
• Cheetah3D Free Trial
• Adobe Illustrator Free Trial
• Autodesk AutoCAD Free Trial
• CST CAD Navigator Free Trial

Linux Apps for DXF Files:

• LibreCAD Free
• CST CAD Navigator Free Trial

iPadOS Apps for DXF Files:

• Adobe Illustrator Free Trial