What is a SWP file?
A .SWP file usually functions as a recovery file or swap file. The most common use is the Vi Swap File. This format was created for the classic text editor originally developed by Bill Joy. Today, its modern successor Vim and the GNU nano editor still use this format. These software tools create .SWP files to store unsaved changes and prevent data loss during a computer crash.
However, the .SWP extension has multiple possible meanings. It can also be a SolidWorks VBA Macro file. This type uses an internal DOC format and operates inside Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks. Finally, a .SWP file can be a S7-200 PLC program used for industrial automation with Siemens systems or Omron CX-Programmer.
How to open SWP files?
To open a Vim recovery file, you can type the `vim -r` command in your terminal. This command restores your unsaved text. For SolidWorks macros, you must open the file within the SolidWorks application.
Because .SWP has multiple possible meanings, we recommend using viewer.online/swp to identify the actual format of your file. viewer.online/swp can analyze .SWP files to identify the exact format and creator software, inspect the file structure, extract readable text, and check whether an online preview is available.
Best practices and troubleshooting
Do not manually delete .SWP files if your text editor crashes. If you delete the file, you will lose your unsaved data. When you recover your file successfully, the editor usually deletes the .SWP file automatically. If your file is a macro, ensure you trust the source before you run it. VBA macros can contain harmful code.
Software and tools
Common tools that create or manage these files include:
- Vim
- GNU nano
- SolidWorks
- Omron CX-Programmer
Summary
viewer.online/swp is useful for identifying, inspecting, and understanding .SWP files without installing software or dealing with compatibility problems.