CGI File Extension
Common Gateway Interface Script
- File Type cgi
- Popularity
- Application Notepad++
- Category Web Files, Developer Files
- Format Text and Binary
What is a CGI file?
Files with the CGI extension are associated with Common Gateway Interface Script and are categorized as Web Files and Developer Files, making up 1449 files.
CGI file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS and Linux. When working with CGI files, you can rely on 11 programs, including Notepad++, Coda and TextMate.
MIME types
- magnus-internal/cgi
Programs that support CGI files
How to open a CGI file?
If you can’t open a CGI file, it is usually because the necessary software is missing. To resolve the issue, select the right program from the list for your operating system. Then go to the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it.
When it comes to opening and working with CGI files, Notepad++, Coda and TextMate are the top choices for users. To install the updated version of Notepad++, simply go to the Notepad++ Team site and download the installer compatible with all major platforms.
Once the process is complete, Notepad++ should take over as the default application for CGI files.
Set Notepad++ as the default CGI program
Changing Default Programs in Windows
- Right-click on your CGI file, then choose the "Open with" option and select "Choose another application" from the available options;
- In the pop-up window, select the Notepad++ application;
- Check the "Always use this application" checkbox, and then click "OK" to apply the selected application as the default for opening CGI files.
Change Default Program on Mac
- Right click or Control + left click on the desired CGI file;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- At the bottom of the window, you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, will be set to "Recommended Programs";
- Choose "All Programs" in this menu and search for Notepad++. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
How to edit a CGI file?
To edit CGI files, it is essential to install software that supports not only viewing but also editing the web files. Online CGI editors provide limited functionality compared to full-featured software for Common Gateway Interface Script.
List of Top CGI editors 2026
Based on the criteria above, here is a selection of CGI editors you can use.
| CGI Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| TextEdit | Apple | Mac OS | 4.8 out of 5 (40 reviews) |
| Windows Notepad | Microsoft | Windows | 4.8 out of 5 (35 reviews) |
| BBEdit | Bare Bones | Mac OS | 4.6 out of 5 (38 reviews) |
| Notepad++ | Notepad++ Team | Windows | 4.6 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
| Sublime Text | Sublime HQ Pty | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.6 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
| Adobe Contribute | Adobe | Windows | 4.4 out of 5 (42 reviews) |
| Vim | Bram Moolenaar | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.4 out of 5 (41 review) |
| Coda | Panic | Mac OS | 4.3 out of 5 (41 review) |
| TextMate | MacroMates | Mac OS | 4.2 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
| Atom | - | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.1 out of 5 (36 reviews) |
Solve problems with CGI files
Rest assured, any issues with CGI files can typically be addressed with simple software adjustments. See the tips below for help.
Why does Notepad++ stop responding or crash intermittently?
Notepad++ crashes can be caused by outdated software. Keep your Notepad++ Team products up to date by installing the latest updates.
Restarting your computer will solve many common problems, which is why it’s the first thing you should do before changing any settings related to the software.
What are the best practices for repairing a CGI file that has gone bad?
Use a data recovery program to open the damaged CGI file and from the menu choose "Repair" function to start the repair process. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged web files.
What are the warning signs that my CGI file may be corrupted?
Common indications of damaged CGI web files are:
- Error messages appear during the course of working with the file;
- Editing the archive in Notepad++ results in slow or unresponsive behavior;
- Opening the file results in an error or a failed attempt;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the CGI file;
- Opening the file in Notepad++ or other programs causes them to hang or crash;