.shp

Shapefile

File Extension Details

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What is a .shp file?

A shapefile is a popular geospatial vector data format for geographic information systems (GIS) software. It is developed and regulated by Esri as a mostly open specification for data interoperability among Esri and other GIS software products. A shapefile spatially describes geometries as points, lines, and polygons, each representing a feature. These features can represent anything from simple points of interest to complex geographic regions. The shapefile format actually comprises several files, typically including .shp (the main shape file containing the geometry), .shx (an index file that speeds up spatial queries), .dbf (a dBase file containing attribute data associated with each feature), .prj (a projection file defining the coordinate system), and others like .sbn and .sbx (spatial index files), .fbn and .fbx (attribute index files), .ain and .aih (attribute index files), .atx (attribute index files), .xml (metadata), and .cpg (character encoding). Shapefiles are widely used for storing and exchanging geographic data due to their simplicity and broad support across various GIS platforms. However, they have limitations, such as a 2GB size limit and lack of support for storing topology.

.shp File

Shapefile

Compatible Software Alternatives

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Category

Software Compatibility

Programs that can open and work with .shp files

Windows

Compatible Applications

ArcGIS Pro

Compatible

QGIS

Compatible

Global Mapper

Compatible

Manifold System

Compatible

AutoCAD Map 3D

Compatible

TatukGIS Viewer

Compatible

macOS

Compatible Applications

ArcGIS Pro

Compatible

QGIS

Compatible

Global Mapper

Compatible

Manifold System

Compatible

TatukGIS Viewer

Compatible

Linux

Compatible Applications

QGIS

Compatible

GRASS GIS

Compatible

gvSIG

Compatible

uDig

Compatible

Mobile

Mobile Applications

ArcGIS Field Maps

Compatible

QField

Compatible

Input App

Compatible

Alternative File Formats

Similar formats you can consider

Alternative format for .shp files

Alternative format for .shp files

Alternative format for .shp files

Alternative format for .shp files

Alternative format for .shp files

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Frequently Asked Questions

About .shp Files

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

ArcGIS Pro
QGIS
ArcGIS Field Maps

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

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

Use compatible software: Many programs that open .shp files also allow saving or exporting to different formats. For example, you might try using ArcGIS Pro or ArcGIS Pro.
Try online conversion services: Websites like Zamzar, CloudConvert, or Online-Convert can transform files between formats without installing software.
Convert to recommended alternatives: For .shp files, consider converting to .geojson, .gml, .kml for better compatibility.
Specialized conversion tools: Search for ".shp 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 .shp file, try these troubleshooting steps:

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

Like any file type, .shp 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 .shp files include:

Compatibility problems: Older or newer versions of software may not fully support certain .shp 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 .shp format in slightly different ways

If you're experiencing issues with a specific .shp 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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