.DWF File Extension
Design Web Format File
| Developer | Autodesk |
| Popularity |
3.9 | 29 Votes |
| Category | 3D Image Files |
| Format | Binary |
What is a DWF file?
A DWF file is a 2D or 3D drawing saved in the Design Web Format (DWF) developed by Autodesk. It contains design data, which includes graphics and text. DWF files are saved in a Zip-compressed format to reduce their file size.
The Design Web Format was developed as a device-independent and resolution-independent drawing format for distributing designs. It is not intended to replace popular CAD formats, but instead, is used to save designs in a more accessible, open format that can be opened without the need to purchase expensive CAD software. The format is based on the HOOPS Stream (HSF) 2D/3D format but is also Zip-compressed.
DWF files can include one or many design sheets. Because the files are highly-compressed, they're easy for engineers and designers to share over the Internet (thus the name Design Web Format).
How to open a DWF file
You can open a DWF file in many CAD applications, including Autodesk Design Review (Windows), IMSI TurboCAD (Windows, Mac), and CorelCAD (Windows, Mac). Note that you cannot open a DWF file in the desktop versions of Autodesk AutoCAD, though you can attach the file inside an AutoCAD drawing using the XREF or DWFATTACH commands.
How to convert a DWF file
You can use Autodesk Design Review (Windows) or ShareCAD.org (Web) to convert DWF files to the .PDF format, using the Print to PDF feature. You can use Any DWF to DWG Converter (Windows) to convert DWF files to the .DWG format.