GNUMAKEFILE File Extension

GNUMAKEFILE file icon

GNU Makefile

What is a GNUMAKEFILE file?

The GNUMAKEFILE file extension is linked to GNU Makefile and belongs to the Developer Files category, which includes 1166 files.

The GNU Makefile (GNUMAKEFILE) was developed by GNU, which created file format and programs to work with them.

GNUMAKEFILE files are compatible with various operating systems, including Linux and Windows. To open a GNUMAKEFILE file, you can choose from 2 programs such as GNU Make and Sublime Text.

Programs that support GNUMAKEFILE files

How to open a GNUMAKEFILE file?

If you cannot open a GNUMAKEFILE 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.

GNU Make and Sublime Text are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with GNUMAKEFILE files. To set up the newest version of Sublime Text on your device, simply go to the official Sublime HQ Pty website. There you can download the edition compatible with every operating system.

Once installed, Sublime Text will be set as the default program, and GNUMAKEFILE files will open automatically.

Set Sublime Text to open GNUMAKEFILE by default

Setting a default program by file type in Windows

  1. Right click on your GNUMAKEFILE file, then select "Open with" and click "Choose another application";
  2. Find the Sublime Text 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 GNUMAKEFILE files.

Change default apps on Mac

  1. Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired GNUMAKEFILE 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 Sublime Text. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default program.

How to edit a GNUMAKEFILE file?

Editing GNUMAKEFILE files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit developer files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated GNU Makefile programs.

Best GNUMAKEFILE editors in 2026

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

GNUMAKEFILE Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
Sublime TextSublime HQ PtyWindows, Mac OS, Linux4.6 out of 5 (39 reviews)
GNU MakeFSFLinux4.4 out of 5 (36 reviews)

Easy GNUMAKEFILE Troubleshooting

Certain problems with GNUMAKEFILE 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 GNUMAKEFILE file?

Open the corrupted GNUMAKEFILE 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 developer files.

How do I know if my GNUMAKEFILE file is corrupted?

Corrupted GNUMAKEFILE developer files may show the following signs:

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

What are the reasons behind Sublime Text crash?

The likely cause of Sublime Text crashing is lack of software updates. Install the latest updates available for Sublime HQ Pty 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.