_PDF File Extension

_PDF file icon

Generic

What is a _PDF file?

Generic, identified by the _PDF extension, is a Document Files type and includes 969 files.

_PDF files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS and Linux. If you need to open a _PDF file, you can use one of 10 programs, such as Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, PDF Architect and Adobe Acrobat Reader DC.

MIME types

  • application/x-pdf
  • application/x-bzpdf
  • text/x-pdf
  • application/acrobat
  • applications/vnd.pdf
  • application/pdf
  • application/x-gzpdf
  • text/pdf

How to open a _PDF file?

If you’re having difficulty opening a _PDF file, it is often due to not having the correct software. To solve the problem, choose a compatible program from the list. Then follow the link to the official developer site, download the software, and install it on your device.

Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, PDF Architect and Adobe Acrobat Reader DC are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with _PDF files. To install the most up-to-date edition of Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, visit the official Adobe website. You can download the build that works across all operating systems.

Once the process is complete, Adobe Acrobat Pro DC should take over as the default application for _PDF files.

Set Adobe Acrobat Pro DC as the default _PDF handler

Setting a default program by file type in Windows

  1. Right-click your _PDF file, then navigate to the "Open With" option and click "Choose Another Application" to continue;
  2. In the pop-up window, find and select the Adobe Acrobat Pro DC application from the available options;
  3. Make sure the "Always use this app" checkbox is checked and click "OK" to confirm your choice as the default app for opening _PDF files.

Choose an app to open a file on Mac

  1. Right click or use Control + left click on the desired _PDF file to launch the file options menu;
  2. Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
  3. At the bottom of the window, you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, will be set to "Recommended Programs";
  4. Choose "All Programs" in this menu and search for Adobe Acrobat Pro DC. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.

How to edit a _PDF file?

Editing _PDF files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit document files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated Generic programs.

List of Top _PDF editors 2026

Based on the criteria above, here is a selection of _PDF editors you can use.

_PDF Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
Adobe Acrobat Pro DCAdobeWindows, Mac OS4.7 out of 5 (39 reviews)
PDF ArchitectpdfforgeWindows4.2 out of 5 (44 reviews)

Effective solutions for _PDF file problems

Rest assured, any issues with _PDF files can typically be addressed with simple software adjustments. See the tips below for help.

Are there any techniques or tools available to repair a damaged _PDF file?

Open the damaged _PDF file using Advanced PDF Repair, and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair process. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged document files.

What are the telltale signs of a corrupt _PDF file?

Corrupted _PDF document files may show the following signs:

  • Unexpected expansion of the total size of the _PDF file;
  • Opening the file in Adobe Acrobat Pro DC or other programs causes them to hang or crash;
  • Opening the file results in an error or a failed attempt;
  • While working with the file, error messages appear;
  • Editing the archive in Adobe Acrobat Pro DC is accompanied by slow performance or delays;

What factors contribute to Adobe Acrobat Pro DC crash?

Adobe Acrobat Pro DC crashes can occur due to outdated software versions. To mitigate this, install the latest updates for Adobe products.

Restarting your computer can resolve numerous common problems, so it should be the initial step before changing any software-related settings.