Because DWF files are highly compressed, they are smaller and faster to transmit than design files, without the overhead associated with complex CAD drawings (or the management of external links and dependencies). This enables team members who do not use CAD applications to participate in the digital processes by viewing building, GIS, or product designs. A DWF file archive consists of several XML and binary files that are packaged together in a compressed archive created with ZIP compression.Design Web Format (DWF) is a file format developed by Autodesk for the efficient distribution and communication of rich design data to anyone who needs to view, review, or print design files. It is independent of the original application software, hardware, and operating system used to create that design data. DWF File FormatĭWF is an open, secure format designed specifically for sharing rich engineering design data. Many of third-party applications also make use of this format.

The format evolved from 2D-only format to include 3D contents with the passage of time. Brief HistoryĪutodesk introduced the DWF file format in 1995 as part of Netscape Navigation plug-in, WHIP. The contents of DWF file format can be simple and include just a single sheet or complex enough to have fonts, color, and images. DWF doesn’t require the recipient to know about the usage of CAD software that created the original drawing. The reduced file size makes the distribution and communication of rich design data efficient. It contains graphics and text as part of design data and reduce the size of the file due to its compressed format. Design Web Format (DWF) represents 2D/3D drawing in compressed format for viewing, reviewing or printing design files.

Open dwf file