GPD File Extension

Generic Printer Description Format
- File Type gpd
- Developer Microsoft
- Popularity
- Application Notepad++
- Category System Files
- Format Text
What is a GPD file?
Generic Printer Description Format, identified by the GPD extension, is a System Files type and includes 251 files.
The Generic Printer Description Format (GPD) was developed by Microsoft, which created file format and 242 programs to work with them.
GPD file support extends to various operating systems, including Linux, Windows and Mac OS. To open a GPD file, you can choose from 6 programs such as Atom, Notepad++ and Sublime Text.
File Signature
HEX code: 2A. ASCII code: *.
Programs that support GPD files
How to open a GPD file?
If you cannot open a GPD 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.
When it comes to opening and working with GPD files, Atom, Notepad++ and Sublime Text are the top choices for users. If you want the most recent release of Notepad++, head over to the Notepad++ Team site and download the version designed to run on all platforms.
After installation, your operating system should automatically open GPD files with Notepad++.
Setting Notepad++ as default GPD viewer
Changing Default Programs in Windows
- Right click on your GPD file, then select "Open with" and click "Choose another application";
- Choose Notepad++ from the available applications listed in the pop-up window to set it as the default application to open your GPD file;
- Be sure to check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to confirm your selection.
Change the default app for a file type in Mac
- Initiate a right click or use Control + left click on the desired GPD file to open a menu where you can select various actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Next, at the bottom of the window, you will see the "Enable" menu, in which "Recommended Programs" is selected by default;
- In this menu, select "All Programs", then find Notepad++ and check the box next to "Always open in the application."
How to edit a GPD file?
To edit GPD files, it is essential to install software that supports not only viewing but also editing the system files. Online GPD editors provide limited functionality compared to full-featured software for Generic Printer Description Format.
List of Top GPD editors 2026
Based on these criteria, we have prepared a list of available GPD editors.
| GPD 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) |
| Windows Notepad | Microsoft | Windows | 4.2 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
| Atom | - | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.1 out of 5 (36 reviews) |
Tips and tricks to solve problems with GPD files
There are some common issues with GPD files that can be resolved easily by making minor adjustments to your software. Below, you’ll find these issues along with practical troubleshooting tips.
What Causes Notepad++ to Crash Frequently?
The likely cause of Notepad++ crashing is lack of software updates. Install the latest updates available for Notepad++ Team products.
Restarting your computer is an essential troubleshooting step that can resolve many common problems. It is recommended to restart your computer before making any changes to the software settings.
How can I restore a damaged GPD file?
Open the corrupted GPD file in a recovery program and select the "Repair" menu item. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged system files.
How do I know if my GPD file is corrupted?
Common indications of damaged GPD system files are:
- The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
- Editing the archive in Notepad++ results in slow or unresponsive behavior;
- Opening or processing the file in Notepad++ or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the GPD file;
- Error messages appear while working with the file;









