Reference

DWG (AutoCAD drawing)

DWG is the native binary format for AutoCAD drawings. It stores precise 2D and 3D CAD geometry plus layers, blocks, dimensions, and metadata. Because it is proprietary to Autodesk, opening it outside AutoCAD relies on compatible apps or DWG viewers.

Files & formatsGeneral

DWG (AutoCAD drawing)

Also known as: .dwg file, AutoCAD drawing, how to open DWG

Native AutoCAD format for 2D/3D CAD drawings
Stores layers, blocks, dimensions, and metadata
Proprietary to Autodesk; version compatibility matters

What a DWG file stores

DWG (from "drawing") is the working format of AutoCAD and many related tools. It holds vector CAD data with engineering precision: lines, arcs, and solids organized into layers, reusable blocks, dimensions, text, and drawing properties — everything needed to define a design exactly.

It is a compact binary format tied to Autodesk’s evolving spec, so the DWG version matters: a file saved in a newer release may not open cleanly in much older software.

How to open DWG

AutoCAD opens DWG natively, and Autodesk offers free DWG TrueView plus online and mobile viewers. Other CAD apps and compatible tools read it through their own importers, and many can also export to it.

When you need to share geometry with software that cannot read DWG, exporting to DXF — the more open, text-based CAD exchange format — is the usual workaround.

Related terms

Keep reading the reference.

Files & formatsDXF (CAD exchange)DXF is an open, documented CAD exchange format created by Autodesk so drawings can move between different programs. It stores the same kind of vector geometry as DWG — lines, arcs, layers, text — but in a published format, usually as readable text.General Files & formatsSTEP (.stp CAD)STEP (.step or .stp) is an open, international-standard format for sharing precise 3D CAD models between programs. Unlike a triangle mesh, it stores exact solid and surface geometry, making it the common neutral format for mechanical and product design.General Storage conceptsCompression (lossy vs lossless)Compression shrinks a file by encoding its data more efficiently. Lossless compression rebuilds the original exactly, while lossy compression permanently discards detail the eye or ear is least likely to notice in exchange for much smaller files.General Storage conceptsFile systemA file system is the method a device uses to organize and track files on storage — naming them, recording where each one lives, and managing free space. Common ones include APFS (Apple), NTFS (Windows), and exFAT and FAT32 (cross-platform).General