.drawio File Extension

draw.io Diagram File

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What is a .drawio file?

The .drawio file format is used by draw.io (now diagrams.net), a free, open-source diagramming application. It stores diagrams, flowcharts, UML diagrams, mind maps, and other types of visual representations. The file itself is typically an XML-based format that contains the diagram's structure, elements (shapes, connectors, text), attributes (colors, sizes, fonts), and layout information. Because it's XML-based, the content is often human-readable, though not easily editable directly. draw.io files are designed to be platform-independent, allowing users to create and edit diagrams on various operating systems and web browsers. The format supports a wide range of diagramming conventions and allows for collaboration through features like real-time co-editing (depending on the platform used to access draw.io). The diagrams can be exported to various other formats like PNG, JPG, SVG, PDF, and more, making it versatile for sharing and integration with other applications and documents. The drawio format is the native format for saving diagrams within the draw.io environment, preserving all diagram elements and their properties for future editing.

.drawio File

draw.io Diagram File

Compatible Software Alternatives

Software Compatibility

Windows

  • draw.io Desktop
  • diagrams.net Desktop
  • draw.io for VS Code (extension)
  • diagrams.net for VS Code (extension)

macOS

  • draw.io Desktop
  • diagrams.net Desktop
  • draw.io for VS Code (extension)
  • diagrams.net for VS Code (extension)

Linux

  • draw.io Desktop
  • diagrams.net Desktop
  • draw.io for VS Code (extension)
  • diagrams.net for VS Code (extension)
  • draw.io in a web browser

Mobile

  • draw.io in a web browser (mobile)
  • diagrams.net in a web browser (mobile)

Alternative File Formats

Related Categories

Data Files Archive FilesAudio FilesDocument Files

Frequently Asked Questions About .drawio Files

To open a .drawio file, you need compatible software. Here are some options:

  • draw.io Desktop
  • diagrams.net Desktop
  • draw.io in a web browser (mobile)

Check the "Software Compatibility" section above for a complete list of programs that can open .drawio files on different operating systems.

To convert a .drawio file to another format, you can:

  1. Use compatible software: Many programs that open .drawio files also allow saving or exporting to different formats. For example, you might try using draw.io Desktop or draw.io Desktop.
  2. Try online conversion services: Websites like Zamzar, CloudConvert, or Online-Convert can transform files between formats without installing software.
  3. Convert to recommended alternatives: For .drawio files, consider converting to .svg, .png, .jpg for better compatibility.
  4. Specialized conversion tools: Search for ".drawio converter" to find tools specifically designed for this file type.

Note: Converting files may result in some loss of formatting, quality, or functionality depending on the compatibility between formats.

If you're having trouble opening a .drawio file, try these troubleshooting steps:

  1. Verify the file extension is correct: Sometimes files may be incorrectly named. Make sure the file truly is a .drawio file.
  2. Update your software: Ensure you're using the latest version of your chosen program.
  3. Try alternative software: If one program doesn't work, try another from our compatibility list.
  4. Check for file corruption: The file might be damaged. Try to obtain a new copy if possible.
  5. Look for file converters: Converting to a more common format might help.

Like any file type, .drawio files can be safe or potentially risky depending on their source:

  • From trusted sources: Files from reputable websites, colleagues, or friends are generally safe.
  • From unknown sources: Exercise caution with files from unfamiliar websites or emails.

Safety recommendations:

  • Always scan files with antivirus software before opening them
  • Keep your operating system and applications updated
  • Be particularly cautious with executable file types

Common issues with .drawio files include:

  • Compatibility problems: Older or newer versions of software may not fully support certain .drawio files
  • Missing elements: Fonts, media, or other components may not transfer correctly between systems
  • File corruption: Incomplete downloads or transfer errors can damage files
  • Format variations: Different software may implement the .drawio format in slightly different ways

If you're experiencing issues with a specific .drawio file, you might need to:

  • Try opening it with alternative software
  • Ask the file creator to save it in a different format
  • Look for specific patches or updates for your software

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