How to open a .pdf file
Quick, free ways to open PDF on any system.
A .pdf file is a Portable Document Format. If double-clicking does nothing, your computer simply does not have an app that reads PDF yet. Here is how to fix that on each operating system, using free software wherever possible.
Open a .pdf file step by step
- Confirm the file really is a .pdf. Drop it into the WhatFileType file identifier, which reads its signature without uploading anything.
- On Windows, open it with Edge or Adobe Reader.
- On Mac, use Preview or Safari.
- On Linux, try Evince or Okular.
- Still stuck? Convert the .pdf to DOCX, which opens more widely.
Best apps to open .pdf files
Windows
- Edge
- Adobe Reader
- any browser
macOS
- Preview
- Safari
- Adobe Reader
Linux
- Evince
- Okular
- Firefox
Web
- Every browser
!
Before you open it: Usually safe, but PDFs can contain scripts and links. Open unexpected PDFs in a browser or reader with JavaScript disabled, and be wary of ones from unknown senders.
Frequently asked questions
Why can't I open my .pdf file?
Almost always because no installed app understands PDF. Install one of the apps above, or convert the file to a format your existing software already reads.
How do I edit a PDF?
Use a PDF editor like Acrobat, or convert it to DOCX, edit in Word, and export back to PDF. Simple text tweaks are possible in many browsers and readers.
Are PDFs safe to open?
Generally yes, but they can carry embedded scripts. Keep your reader updated and be cautious with PDFs from unknown sources.