CLW File Extension
Visual C++ ClassWizard Format
- File Type clw
- Developer Microsoft
- Popularity
- Application Visual C++
- Category Developer Files
What is a CLW file?
The CLW file extension is linked to Visual C++ ClassWizard Format and belongs to the Developer Files category, which includes 1166 files.
The Visual C++ ClassWizard Format (CLW), created by Microsoft, is one of file format they developed, and they also built 242 programs to support them.
CLW files are supported by Windows, Linux and Mac OS. When working with CLW files, you can rely on 2 programs, including Visual C++ and Microsoft Visual Studio.
Programs that support CLW files
How to open a CLW file?
If you can’t open a CLW 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.
The most popular programs for working with CLW files are Visual C++ and Microsoft Visual Studio. To install the latest version of Visual C++ on your computer, visit the Microsoft website where you can download the version available for all operating systems.
Following installation, CLW files should be automatically opened with Visual C++.
Set Visual C++ as your default CLW viewer
Changing the default program in Windows
- Right-click on your CLW file, then choose the "Open with" option and select "Choose another application" from the available options;
- From the list of applications in the pop-up window, find and select Visual C++ as your desired application;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to set your chosen app as the default for opening CLW files.
Set default app to open files on Mac
- Right-click or Control + left-click on the desired CLW file to open a menu of available actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Look at the bottom of the window, where you will see the "Enable" menu. "Recommended Programs" will be selected as the default option;
- Within this menu select "All Programs" and navigate to Visual C++. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make sure it’s the default option.
How to edit a CLW file?
To edit CLW files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify developer files. Online CLW editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for Visual C++ ClassWizard Format.
Best CLW editors in 2026
Taking into account the provided details, we have prepared a list of CLW editors that match your needs.
| CLW Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Visual Studio | Microsoft | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.2 out of 5 (35 reviews) |
| Visual C++ | Microsoft | Windows | 4.2 out of 5 (43 reviews) |
Solving Common CLW File Challenges
When issues arise with CLW files, they can generally be fixed with small software tweaks. Use the troubleshooting tips below to help resolve them.
What are the warning signs that my CLW file may be corrupted?
Corrupted CLW developer files may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Error messages appear during the course of working with the file;
- Poor performance when editing a file in Visual C++;
- Attempts to open the file result in errors or failed results;
- Unexplained increase in CLW file size;
- The file causes Visual C++ or other programs to hang or crash during operation;
Why does Visual C++ crash?
Visual C++ crashes can be caused by outdated software. Keep your Microsoft products up to date by installing the latest updates.
A simple restart of your computer can often fix many common problems, which is why it is the recommended first step before making any adjustments to your software settings.
How to repair a corrupted CLW file?
Use a data recovery program to open the damaged CLW file and from the menu choose "Repair" function to start the repair process. Please be patient while the recovery process completes, which will automatically restore the damaged developer files.