.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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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 might consider

.geojson
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Alternative format for .shp files
.gml
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Alternative format for .shp files
.kml
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Alternative format for .shp files
.wkt
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Alternative format for .shp files
.wkb
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Alternative format for .shp files

Related Categories

Data Files
Archive Files
Audio Files
Document Files
Related Files
.xsl
Extensible Stylesheet Lan...
.obj (.obj)
Wavefront OBJ File
.dxf
Drawing Exchange Format
.protocol buffers
Protocol Buffers
View all Data files

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:

  1. Use compatible software Many programs that open .shp files also allow you to save or export them to different formats. For example, you might try using ArcGIS Pro , ArcGIS Pro. ...
  2. Try online conversion services: Websites like Zamzar, CloudConvert, or Online-Convert allow you to convert files between different formats without installing software.
  3. Convert to recommended alternatives: For .shp files, consider converting them to .geojson, .gml, .kml which may be better supported by various applications.
  4. Specialized conversion tools: Search for '.shp converter' to find tools specifically designed for this file type.

Note: File conversion may result in loss of formatting, quality, or features depending on format compatibility.

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

  1. Verify the file extension is correct: Sometimes files are incorrectly named. Make sure the file is actually a .shp 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 getting a fresh copy if possible.
  5. Look for file converters: Converting to a more common format might be helpful.

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 unknown websites or emails.

Security Recommendations:

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

Common issues with .shp files include:

  • Compatibility Issues: Older or newer software versions may not fully support certain .shp files
  • Missing Components: Fonts, media, or other components may not transfer properly 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 encounter issues with a specific .shp file, you may need to:

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

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