WOR File Extension
MapInfo Workspace Format
What is a WOR file?
MapInfo Workspace Format, identified by the WOR extension, is a GIS Files type and includes 247 files.
WOR file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows. When working with WOR files, you can rely on 3 programs, including MapInfo, Total GIS Converter and TatukGIS Editor.
How to open a WOR file?
If you can’t open a WOR 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.
When it comes to opening and working with WOR files, MapInfo, Total GIS Converter and TatukGIS Editor are the top choices for users. To install the updated version of MapInfo, simply go to the PBS site and download the installer compatible with all major platforms.
Once the process is complete, MapInfo should take over as the default application for WOR files.
Set MapInfo as the default WOR program
Changing Default Programs in Windows
- Right-click on your WOR file, then choose the "Open with" option and select "Choose another application" from the available options;
- In the pop-up window, select the MapInfo application;
- Check the "Always use this application" checkbox, and then click "OK" to apply the selected application as the default for opening WOR files.
Change Default Program on Mac
- Right click or Control + left click on the desired WOR file;
- Select "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 MapInfo. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
How to edit a WOR file?
To edit WOR files, it is essential to install software that supports not only viewing but also editing the gis files. Online WOR editors provide limited functionality compared to full-featured software for MapInfo Workspace Format.
List of Top WOR editors 2026
Based on the criteria above, here is a selection of WOR editors you can use.
| WOR Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| MapInfo | PBS | Windows | 4.6 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
Solve problems with WOR files
Rest assured, any issues with WOR files can typically be addressed with simple software adjustments. See the tips below for help.
Why does MapInfo stop responding or crash intermittently?
MapInfo crashes can be caused by outdated software. Keep your PBS products up to date by installing the latest updates.
Restarting your computer will solve many common problems, which is why it’s the first thing you should do before changing any settings related to the software.
What are the best practices for repairing a WOR file that has gone bad?
Use a data recovery program to open the damaged WOR file and from the menu choose "Repair" function to start the repair process. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged gis files.
What are the warning signs that my WOR file may be corrupted?
Common indications of damaged WOR gis files are:
- Error messages appear during the course of working with the file;
- Editing the archive in MapInfo results in slow or unresponsive behavior;
- Opening the file results in an error or a failed attempt;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the WOR file;
- Opening the file in MapInfo or other programs causes them to hang or crash;