Updated: April 07, 2025

.PNG File Extension

There is only one filetype that uses .PNG file extension and it is Portable Network Graphics.

Portable Network Graphics

File category:	Raster Image Files
Developer:	PNG Development Group
Open with:	Google Drive (+14 more)
Platforms:	Windows, macOS, In-browser (Online), Linux, iOS, Android, ChromeOS, iPadOS

PNG (Portable Network Graphics) is a popular raster image file format used for storing and displaying digital images, particularly on the web. It was developed as a free, open-source alternative to the GIF format and is widely used for graphics that require transparency, high-quality images, and web content.

PNG was introduced in 1995 as a free alternative to the GIF format, which was limited by patent restrictions at the time. The format was specifically designed to improve upon GIF while avoiding the patent issues that surrounded it.

PNG remains one of the most important and versatile image formats in digital media, balancing quality with functionality for a wide range of applications.

Key Features

Lossless compression: Unlike JPEG, PNG uses compression that doesn't degrade image quality
Transparency support: Allows for transparent backgrounds and varying levels of opacity
Wide color depth: Supports both 8-bit and 24-bit color, allowing for millions of colors
Platform independent: Works consistently across different devices and operating systems

Common Uses

Web graphics and icons: Ideal for logos, buttons, and interface elements
Digital photographs: When quality preservation is important
Images requiring transparency: Product photos, graphics that need to blend with various backgrounds
Screenshots: Commonly used for capturing screen images due to its clarity and lossless compression

How to Open .PNG as Portable Network Graphics

PNG files are widely supported and can be opened with:

Image viewers: Microsoft Photos, IrfanView, ACDSee Photo Studio
Graphic editors: Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, Corel PaintShop Pro, Adobe Illustrator
Web browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge (simply drag and drop the file)
Default programs: Most operating systems have built-in programs that open PNG files by default

How to Convert an PNG File

PNG files can be easily converted to other formats:

Using graphic editing software:
- Open the PNG in software like Photoshop, GIMP, or even Microsoft Paint
- Select "Save As" or "Export" and choose your desired format (JPEG, GIF, WebP, etc.)
Online conversion tools:
- Upload your PNG to services like Convertio, CloudConvert, or similar websites
- Select your target format and download the converted file
Batch conversion:
- For multiple files, use dedicated conversion software like XnConvert or IrfanView's batch conversion feature