Four Easy Ways to Open MXD Files

The scenario: You have a file with the MXD file extension on your computer that you need to open. You double-click it as usual, expecting for a program to load it up, but sadly nothing happens. You try it again, but still nothing happens. What can you do? Try these four easy methods to open a troublesome MXD file.

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1File types that are unsupported can be opened in binary format.

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1st Method: Open it in another program.

When you double-click MXD files, your computer attempts to open it in a program associated with MXD files. If there’s no program associated with MXD files on your computer, the file won’t open. To open the file, download one of the most popular programs associated with MXD files such as MX Editor Remote Control Device Configuration File or ArcMap GIS Project File (ESRI).

2nd Method: Take a hint from the file type.

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The MXD file extension usually indicates it's under the umbrella of GIS Files. However, if it’s another file type, it might not open with one of the programs listed above. Take the following steps to find the file type:

  1. Right-click the file.
  2. Click “Properties” (Windows) or “More Info” (Mac).
  3. Locate the file type under either “Type of File” (Windows) or “Kind” (Mac).

3rd Method: Check with the developer.

So you’ve tried using a different program, you’ve confirmed the file type, and your MXD file still won’t open. Even if these methods were unsuccessful, you might still be able to reach out to a software developer for help. Use the chart below to find the developer for each of the programs mentioned above and contact them directly for assistance.

Software Developed By
MX Editor Remote Control Device Configuration File Windows Programmer
ArcMap GIS Project File (ESRI) Map

4th Method: Open it in a universal file viewer.

If the developer isn’t able to help, a universal file viewer probably can. File Magic (Download) and similar programs are designed to open a wide variety of file formats, including MXD files. Some aren’t compatible and will only open in binary. Download File Magic now to open you MXD and hundreds of other file types with one program!

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