AGA File Extension

AGA file icon

ArcGIS ArcGlobe

What is a AGA file?

The AGA file extension is linked to ArcGIS ArcGlobe and belongs to the Graphics Files category, which includes 556 files.

The ArcGIS ArcGlobe (AGA) was developed by Esri, which created file format and 10 programs to work with them.

AGA files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows. To open a AGA file, you can choose from 2 programs such as ArcGIS and ArcReader.

Programs that support AGA files

How to open a AGA file?

If you cannot open a AGA file, it is most often due to missing software. Select a program from the list according to your operating system. Then go to the official website of the program developer, download it, and install it on your device.

ArcGIS and ArcReader are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with AGA files. To set up the newest version of ArcGIS on your device, simply go to the official Esri website. There you can download the edition compatible with every operating system.

Once installed, ArcGIS will be set as the default program, and AGA files will open automatically.

Set ArcGIS to open AGA by default

Setting a default program by file type in Windows

  1. Right click on your AGA file, then select "Open with" and click "Choose another application";
  2. Find the ArcGIS application in the pop-up window and select it as your preferred program;
  3. Select the "Always use this application" check box and click "OK" to save your selection as the default application for opening AGA files.

Change default apps on Mac

  1. Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired AGA file to access the file’s context menu;
  2. Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
  3. At the bottom of the window, find the "Enable" menu, where "Recommended Programs" is already selected by default;
  4. Within this menu, select "All Programs" and then locate ArcGIS. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default program.

How to edit a AGA file?

Editing AGA files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit graphics files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated ArcGIS ArcGlobe programs.

Best AGA editors in 2026

Considering the mentioned criteria, we have compiled a list of AGA editors that may suit your needs.

AGA Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
ArcGISEsriWindows4.1 out of 5 (40 reviews)

Convert to and from AGA

If you struggle with a AGA file, consider converting it to alternative formats such as ADF or other similar file types.

Converting a AGA file may not fully retain all functionality, but it is generally possible to return it to the original format.

Convert AGA to other file formats

Converting Files to AGA Format

Easy AGA Troubleshooting

Certain problems with AGA files can be conveniently fixed with small software tweaks. Here are some helpful tips to address them.

What are the steps to repair a damaged AGA file?

Open the corrupted AGA file in a recovery program and select the "Repair" menu item. Please be patient while the recovery process completes, which will automatically restore the damaged graphics files.

How do I know if my AGA file is corrupted?

Corrupted AGA graphics files may show the following signs:

  • Attempts to open the file result in errors or failed results;
  • Editing the archive in ArcGIS is accompanied by slow performance or delays;
  • The file causes ArcGIS or other programs to hang or crash during operation;
  • Unexplained increase in AGA file size;
  • Error messages appear while working with the file;

What are the reasons behind ArcGIS crash?

The likely cause of ArcGIS crashing is lack of software updates. Install the latest updates available for Esri products.

Restarting your computer is often an effective solution to resolve various common problems. Therefore, it is recommended to do so before making any changes to the software configuration.