Windows
Compatible applications
Quick Facts
Basic information about this file format
Extension
.DGN
File Type
MicroStation Design File
Category
Data
Best first step
Use compatible software
Quick Summary
A practical overview of the .dgn file format
The DGN file format is a CAD (Computer-Aided Design) file format primarily associated with Bentley Systems' MicroStation and other CAD applications. It is used to store 2D and 3D vector graphics data, including lines, shapes, text, and other design elements. DGN files are commonly employed in archi…
File extension
.DGN
File type
MicroStation Design File
Category
Data
Recommended action
Open with a trusted compatible app
How to open a .dgn file
Start with a trusted app that supports this format
- Check the file extension carefully and confirm that the file name really ends with .dgn.
- 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- Update the application if the file was created by a newer version of the software.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 .dgn file?
File extension details and usage information
The DGN file format is a CAD (Computer-Aided Design) file format primarily associated with Bentley Systems' MicroStation and other CAD applications. It is used to store 2D and 3D vector graphics data, including lines, shapes, text, and other design elements. DGN files are commonly employed in architecture, engineering, construction (AEC), and geospatial industries for creating and managing detailed designs of buildings, infrastructure, and other projects. The format supports a wide range of geometric primitives, complex elements, and metadata, allowing for precise and comprehensive representation of design information. DGN files can also contain references to other files, enabling the creation of complex assemblies and collaborative workflows. The format has evolved over time, with different versions offering varying levels of functionality and compatibility. It is a widely used format in the infrastructure design and management space, often used for large-scale projects involving complex geometries and data relationships. DGN files are often used in conjunction with other file formats, such as DWG, for interoperability between different CAD systems.
Software Compatibility
Programs that may open or work with .dgn files
macOS
Compatible applications
Linux
Compatible applications
Mobile
Mobile applications
Can .dgn files be converted?
Options for saving or exporting this file to another format
In many cases, a .dgn 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 .dgn file.
Why can't I open a .dgn file?
Common reasons this file type may not open correctly
Wrong software
The file may require a specific program that supports the .dgn 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 .dgn files
To open a .dgn file, use software that supports this file format.
- Bentley MicroStation
- Bentley View
- Autodesk AutoCAD (with appropriate plugins)
- ARES Commander
- Open Design Alliance (ODA) applications
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 .dgn 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.