PRE File Extension
Lotus Freelance Graphics Format
- File Type pre
- Developer IBM
- Popularity
- Application Lotus SmartSuite
- Category Document Files
- Format Binary
What is a PRE file?
The PRE extension is related to Lotus Freelance Graphics Format and is classified in the Document Files category, which contains 969 files.
The Lotus Freelance Graphics Format (PRE) was developed by IBM, which created file format and 70 programs to work with them.
PRE files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows. To open a PRE file, you can choose from 3 programs such as Lotus SmartSuite, Corel Presentations and Microsoft PowerPoint.
MIME types
- application/x-freelance
- application/vnd.lotus-freelance
Programs that support PRE files
How to open a PRE file?
If you cannot open a PRE 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.
Lotus SmartSuite, Corel Presentations and Microsoft PowerPoint are among the most widely used programs for handling PRE files. To install the most up-to-date edition of Lotus SmartSuite, visit the official IBM website. You can download the build that works across all operating systems.
After installing, your OS should instantly open PRE files with Lotus SmartSuite.
Set Lotus SmartSuite to open PRE by default
Change default apps on Mac
- Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired PRE file to access the file’s context menu;
- Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
- Look towards the bottom of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. "Recommended programs" will be the default selection;
- Choose "All Programs" in this menu and search for Lotus SmartSuite. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default option.
Change default programs in Windows
- Start by right-clicking on your PRE file, then select the "Open with" option and choose "Choose another app" from the menu that appears;
- Find the Lotus SmartSuite application in the pop-up window and select it as your preferred program;
- Select the "Always use this application" check box and click "OK" to save your selection as the default application for opening PRE files.
How to edit a PRE file?
To modify PRE files, it is necessary to install dedicated software that lets you open and edit document files. Online PRE editors generally offer fewer tools compared to programs designed for Lotus Freelance Graphics Format.
Best PRE Editor Software in 2026
Based on the specified criteria, here is a list of PRE editors that may fit your requirements.
| PRE Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lotus SmartSuite | IBM | Windows | 4.9 out of 5 (36 reviews) |
Convert files to and from PRE
When a PRE file is not easy to work with, converting it to formats like JPG, PPSX or other comparable types may help.
It is important to understand that converting a PRE file might limit certain functions, but this conversion is usually reversible.
Using offline converters like Microsoft PowerPoint ensures high-quality conversion of PRE files to different formats.
Convert PRE to other file formats
Easy PRE Troubleshooting
Problematic PRE files can usually be resolved by making small changes in your software. See the tips below to help fix common issues.
Are there any techniques or tools available to repair a damaged PRE file?
Use a recovery program to open the damaged PRE file, and in the menu, click "Repair" to start the repair operation. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged document files.
What are the ways to check if my PRE file is damaged?
The signs of corrupted PRE document files can manifest as:
- When opening the file, errors occur or the inability to access its contents;
- The file shows slow performance when edited in Lotus SmartSuite;
- Lotus SmartSuite or other programs stop responding or crash when trying to handle the file;
- Unexplained PRE file size inflation;
- Actions performed on the file result in the appearance of error notifications;
What factors contribute to Lotus SmartSuite crash?
Insufficient updates for IBM products can cause Lotus SmartSuite to crash. Be sure to regularly install the latest software updates.
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.