File Extension Database

Open DWS File

The DWS file is a format that many may not be familiar with. Essentially, it stands for .dws - an extension that is used for multiple purposes. The way these files are used and opened often depends on what program they are associated with, and we'll be looking at some of the most common uses here.

AutoCAD Standards File (.dws)

A .DWS file can be an AutoCAD Standards file used by AutoCAD software developed by Autodesk. AutoCAD is an industry-leading 2D and 3D computer-aided design (CAD) software and these AutoCAD standards (".dws") files contain settings, standards, and styles for drafting designs. To open this type of .dws file, the main software resource is AutoCAD. Be aware that there may be a cost attached to this software. It's not the only option, but it is one of the most comprehensive ways to handle DWS files pertaining to AutoCAD.

Dreamweaver Site Definition File (.dws)

.DWS files can also be a Dreamweaver Site Definition file used by Dreamweaver, a website authoring program from Adobe. Dreamweaver Site Definition files store settings and information about a particular website, allowing resources to be easily found and updates to be synchronised across a site. To open this type of .dws file, you would need Adobe Dreamweaver. Like AutoCAD, there may be a cost attached to procuring this software.

DWS File - Final Thoughts

Remember, the best course of action when encountered with a DWS file is to understand what program it has originated from, as the file format can be associated with multiple programs. If the software that the DWS file is associated with is not known, it may be tedious to determine the intended software to open it. Also note there are potential dangers with any kind of data file, including viruses and malware. It is always good practice to ensure your antivirus software is updated and routinely scanned for malware. It is also essential to note that if you're unable to open a DWS file, it could be because you're trying to open it in a program that isn't compatible with it. Keeping this mind and using the right tools, you can efficiently work with files carrying a DWS extension.

Typical DWS application file locations:

"C:\Program Files\Autodesk\DWG TrueView 2011\DWGVIEWR.exe"

Frequently used application names to open DWS files:

Autodesk - DWG TrueView 2011

Frequently associated Windows objects:

DWGVIEWR.9001.409

How Can I Open DWS File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open DWS file is to find a DWS file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a DWS file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open DWS file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as DWS file opener then try to search online for "DWS viewer", "application to open DWS file" or "open DWS file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open DWS file

How Can I Open DWS File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a DWS file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a DWS file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with DWS file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as DWS file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open DWS file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open DWS file then try to search for "DWS viewer", "application to open DWS file" or "read DWS file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read DWS file

How Can I Open DWS File on Android

If you downloaded a DWS file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded DWS file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "DWS".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "DWS viewer", "DWS file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open DWS File on iPhone or iPad

To open DWS File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the DWS file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "DWS". This way you can find apps which can open DWS files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "DWS viewer" or "DWS file" online in your favorite search engine.

Populating this website with information and maintaining it is an ongoing process. We always welcome feedback and questions that can be submitted by visiting Contact Us page. However since there are many users visiting this website and because our team is quite small we may not be able to follow up personally on every request. Thank you for your understanding.