PYW File Extension
Python GUI Source Format
- File Type pyw
- Popularity
- Application Python
- Category Developer Files
What is a PYW file?
Files with the PYW extension are specifically tied to Python GUI Source Format, a Developer Files type, and there are 1166 files in this category.
PYW files are supported by Windows, Linux and Mac OS. If you need to open a PYW file, you can use one of 5 programs, such as Python, Atom and Sublime Text.
Programs that support PYW files
How to open a PYW file?
If you’re having difficulty opening a PYW file, it is often due to not having the correct software. To solve the problem, choose a compatible program from the list. Then follow the link to the official developer site, download the software, and install it on your device.
Python, Atom and Sublime Text stand out as the preferred programs to manage PYW files effectively. To install the latest version of Python on your computer, visit the Python website where you can download the version available for all operating systems.
After installation, your operating system should automatically open PYW files with Python.
Set Python as the default PYW handler
Choose an app to open a file on Mac
- Right click or use Control + left click on the desired PYW file to launch the file options menu;
- Choose "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 Python and check the box next to "Always open in the application."
Set default programs for Windows
- Start by right-clicking on your PYW file, then select "Open With" and continue by clicking "Choose another app" from the options provided;
- In the pop-up window, find and select the Python application from the available options;
- Make sure the "Always use this app" checkbox is checked and click "OK" to confirm your choice as the default app for opening PYW files.
Effective solutions for PYW file problems
There are some common issues with PYW 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 are the methods to detect if my PYW file has been corrupted?
PYW developer files that have become corrupted may display one or more of the following symptoms:
- An unexplained increase in the size of the PYW file;
- Trying to work with the archive in Python or other programs causes instability or program crashes;
- The file does not open correctly or displays error messages;
- While working with the file, error alerts are encountered;
- The file exhibits poor performance during editing operations in Python;
Why does Python crash?
Insufficient software updates can contribute to Python crash. To avoid this, make sure that you have installed the latest updates for Python products.
Restarting your computer can resolve numerous common problems, so it should be the initial step before changing any software-related settings.
How to repair a corrupted PYW file?
Open the damaged PYW file in a recovery program and select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair operation. Please wait patiently for the recovery process to finish as it will automatically repair the damaged developer files.
How to edit a PYW file?
To make changes to PYW files, you need specialized software that allows both opening and editing the developer files. Online PYW editors offer fewer capabilities than applications optimized for Python GUI Source Format.
Best PYW editors 2026
Based on these criteria, we have prepared a list of available PYW editors.
| PYW Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Python | Python | Windows | 4.8 out of 5 (38 reviews) |
| 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) |
| Atom | - | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.1 out of 5 (36 reviews) |