PS File Extension
PostScript Format
- File Type ps
- Developer Adobe Systems
- Popularity
- Application Adobe Illustrator
- Category Document Files
- Format Binary
What is a PS file?
The PS extension is related to PostScript Format and is classified in the Document Files category, which contains 969 files.
The PostScript Format (PS), created by Adobe, is one of file format they developed, and they also built 81 programs to support them.
PS files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS and Linux. When working with PS files, you can rely on 16 programs, including Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Acrobat Pro DC and Adobe Photoshop.
MIME types
- application/x-ps
- application/ps
- application/x-postscript
- text/postscript
- application/postscript
- application/x-postscript-not-eps
File Signature
HEX code: 25 21 50 53. ASCII code: %!PS.
Programs that support PS files
Windows
Mac OS
Online Services
How to open a PS file?
If you can’t open a PS 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.
Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Acrobat Pro DC and Adobe Photoshop are among the most widely used programs for handling PS files. To install the most up-to-date edition of Adobe Illustrator, visit the official Adobe website. You can download the build that works across all operating systems.
Once the process is complete, Adobe Illustrator should take over as the default application for PS files.
Set Adobe Illustrator to open PS by default
Change default apps on Mac
- Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired PS file to access the file’s context menu;
- Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
- At the bottom of the window, you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, will be set to "Recommended Programs";
- Choose "All Programs" in this menu and search for Adobe Illustrator. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
Change default programs in Windows
- Take the first step by right-clicking on your PS file. Next, select "Open With" and then choose "Choose another app" from the available options;
- Find the Adobe Illustrator 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 PS files.
How to edit a PS file?
To modify PS files, it is necessary to install dedicated software that lets you open and edit document files. Online PS editors generally offer fewer tools compared to programs designed for PostScript Format.
Best PS Editor Software in 2026
Based on the criteria above, here is a selection of PS editors you can use.
| PS Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adobe Photoshop | Adobe | Windows, Mac OS | 4.8 out of 5 (52 reviews) |
| Adobe Acrobat Pro DC | Adobe | Windows, Mac OS | 4.7 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
| Adobe Illustrator | Adobe | Windows, Mac OS | 4.2 out of 5 (43 reviews) |
Convert files to and from PS
When a PS file is not easy to work with, converting it to formats like PDF, PSD, CDR, GRD or other comparable types may help.
It is important to understand that converting a PS file might limit certain functions, but this conversion is usually reversible.
Offline software, including Adobe Illustrator, ACDSee Photo Manager and XnView, allows smooth conversion of PS files while preserving original quality.
Convert PS to other file formats
Converting Files to PS Format
Easy PS Troubleshooting
Rest assured, any issues with PS files can typically be addressed with simple software adjustments. See the tips below for help.
Are there any techniques or tools available to repair a damaged PS file?
In a data recovery program, open the damaged PS file and select the "Repair" menu option. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged document files.
How do I know if my PS file has been damaged?
The signs of corrupted PS document files can manifest as:
- Error alerts occur when actions are performed on the file;
- The file shows slow performance when edited in Adobe Illustrator;
- When opening the file, errors occur or the inability to access its contents;
- Unexplained PS file size inflation;
- Adobe Illustrator or other programs stop responding or crash when trying to handle the file;
What factors contribute to Adobe Illustrator crash?
Lack of software updates is a possible reason behind Adobe Illustrator crash. Keep your Adobe products up to date by installing the latest 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.