CMAKE File Extension
CMake Module
- File Type cmake
- Developer Kitware, Inc.
- Popularity
- Application CMake
- Category Developer Files
- Format Text
What is a CMAKE file?
CMake Module, identified by the CMAKE extension, is a Developer Files type and includes 1166 files.
With the creation of the CMake Module (CMAKE), Kitware introduced file format along with 5 programs built for their use.
CMAKE files are supported by Windows, Mac OS and Linux. You can open a CMAKE file using one of 5 programs, for example CMake, Atom and Sublime Text.
Programs that support CMAKE files
How to open a CMAKE file?
The most common reason why a CMAKE file cannot be opened is the absence of required software. To fix this, select a compatible program from the list. Then visit the official developer website via the provided link, download the program, and install it on your system.
The most popular programs for working with CMAKE files are CMake, Atom and Sublime Text. To get the latest version of CMake, open the Kitware website where a universal installer for all operating systems is available.
Once setup is done, your operating system should assign CMake as the default app for CMAKE files.
Make CMake the default CMAKE viewer
Changing the default program in Windows
- Start by right-clicking on your CMAKE file and selecting the "Open With" option. From there, click "Choose another app" to continue;
- Inside the popup window, scroll through the list of applications and specifically choose CMake as the application to associate with your CMAKE file;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK".
Change the default app to open files on Mac
- Right click or use Control + Left Click on the desired CMAKE file to access a dropdown menu of actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Scroll down to the bottom of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, "Recommended Programs" will be selected;
- In this menu, choose "All Programs" and navigate to CMake. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
How to edit a CMAKE file?
To edit CMAKE files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify developer files. Online CMAKE editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for CMake Module.
List of Top CMAKE editors 2026
Following these criteria, we have put together a list of recommended CMAKE editors.
| CMAKE Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| PSPad | Jan Fiala | Windows | 4.7 out of 5 (41 review) |
| 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) |
| CMake | Kitware | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.2 out of 5 (43 reviews) |
| Atom | - | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.1 out of 5 (36 reviews) |
Finding answers to CMAKE file problems
If you encounter issues with CMAKE files, don’t worry—most can be fixed with minor software adjustments. Refer to the troubleshooting tips below.
What are the signs that my CMAKE file is damaged?
Corrupted CMAKE developer files may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Poor performance when editing a file in CMake;
- Opening or processing the file in CMake or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
- The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the CMAKE file;
- Working with the file triggers the display of error messages;
Why does CMake quit or crash unexpectedly?
CMake crashes can be attributed to outdated software. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for Kitware products.
A computer restart is often the key to solving numerous common problems. That’s why, it is recommended to restart the computer before making any changes to the software settings.
What methods can be used to repair a damaged CMAKE file?
Use a recovery program to open the damaged CMAKE file and navigate to the "Repair" menu item. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged developer files.