Windows
Compatible applications
Quick Facts
Basic information about this file format
Extension
.IFC
File Type
Industry Foundation Classes
Category
Data
Best first step
Use compatible software
Quick Summary
A practical overview of the .ifc file format
The IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) file format is an open, international standard for Building Information Modeling (BIM) data. It is developed by buildingSMART International and is intended to describe building and construction industry data. IFC files contain a digital representation of buildi…
File extension
.IFC
File type
Industry Foundation Classes
Category
Data
Recommended action
Open with a trusted compatible app
How to open a .ifc file
Start with a trusted app that supports this format
- Check the file extension carefully and confirm that the file name really ends with .ifc.
- Use software that supports this file type. If one app does not work, try another compatible program for the same platform.
- Update the application if the file was created by a newer version of the software.
- Scan files from unknown sources before opening them, especially documents, archives, scripts, installers, and executable files.
What is a .ifc file?
File extension details and usage information
The IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) file format is an open, international standard for Building Information Modeling (BIM) data. It is developed by buildingSMART International and is intended to describe building and construction industry data. IFC files contain a digital representation of buildings, including their geometry, spatial relationships, properties, and other relevant information. This allows for interoperability between different software applications used in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. The format supports the exchange and sharing of building information throughout the entire lifecycle of a building, from design and construction to operation and maintenance. IFC files are structured using a schema that defines the different types of entities and their relationships, ensuring consistency and accuracy in the data. The IFC standard is continuously evolving to incorporate new technologies and industry practices, making it a crucial tool for collaborative BIM workflows.
Software Compatibility
Programs that may open or work with .ifc files
macOS
Compatible applications
Linux
Compatible applications
Mobile
Mobile applications
Can .ifc files be converted?
Options for saving or exporting this file to another format
In many cases, a .ifc file can be converted by opening it in compatible software and using an option such as Save As, Export, or Convert. The available output formats depend on the file type and the application used.
- Use the original software that created the file when possible.
- Check whether the application supports exporting to common formats.
- Be careful with online converters when working with private, business, or sensitive files.
- If conversion fails, the file may be corrupted, incomplete, encrypted, or not actually a .ifc file.
Why can't I open a .ifc file?
Common reasons this file type may not open correctly
Wrong software
The file may require a specific program that supports the .ifc format.
Incorrect extension
The file extension may have been renamed manually, even though the actual file format is different.
Corrupted file
The file may be incomplete, damaged during download, or transferred incorrectly.
Outdated app
Your software may need to be updated before it can open newer versions of this file format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about .ifc files
To open a .ifc file, use software that supports this file format.
- Autodesk Revit
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Trimble SketchUp
- GRAPHISOFT ArchiCAD
- Allplan
Open the file in compatible software and look for options such as Save As, Export, or Convert. If no export option is available, the file may require a specialized converter or the original application that created it.
- Verify that the file extension is correct.
- Install or update compatible software.
- Try another application that supports this format.
- Check whether the file is corrupted, incomplete, or encrypted.
A file extension alone does not guarantee whether a file is safe or unsafe. Only open files from trusted sources, scan unknown files before opening them, and be especially careful with executable, script, archive, and document files.
File safety tips
Use caution with unknown files
Only open files from trusted sources. Before opening a .ifc file, scan it with antivirus software, verify that the file extension is expected, and avoid running unknown executable, installer, macro-enabled document, or script files.