This article explains what a DWF file is, how to open it on your computer or phone, and how to convert it to another file format.

A file with the DWF file extension is an Autodesk Design Web Format file that is created in computer-aided design (CAD) programs. It is a highly compressed version of a CAD file that is useful for viewing, printing, and sending the design without the recipient having to understand how to use the software that created the original drawing.

The file can be very simple and contain only one sheet, or it can contain multiple sheets and be complex, for example with fonts, colors and images.

Similar to the PDF format, DWF files can be opened regardless of the hardware, software, or operating system used to create them. They are also useful because they can be created in a way that masks part of the design from the recipient, essentially sharing only what the creator wants to see.