.topojson

TopoJSON

File Extension Details

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What is a .topojson file?

TopoJSON is an extension of GeoJSON that encodes topology. Rather than representing geometries as independent sets of coordinates, TopoJSON represents geometries as an assembly of shared line segments called arcs. Arcs are sequences of points, and geometries are defined as sequences of arcs. This allows for significant reduction in file size, especially for complex geometries with shared boundaries, as common boundaries are only stored once. TopoJSON files are typically used for representing geographic data in a compact and efficient manner, making them suitable for web-based mapping applications and data visualization. They are particularly useful when dealing with large datasets or when bandwidth is a concern. The format supports various geometric types, including points, lines, and polygons, and can also store associated attribute data. TopoJSON is designed to be easily converted back to GeoJSON for compatibility with existing tools and libraries.

Software Compatibility

Programs that can open and work with .topojson files

Windows

Compatible Applications

QGIS
Compatible
ArcGIS Pro
Compatible
GDAL
Compatible
TopoJSON command-line tools
Compatible

macOS

Compatible Applications

QGIS
Compatible
ArcGIS Pro
Compatible
GDAL
Compatible
TopoJSON command-line tools
Compatible

Linux

Compatible Applications

QGIS
Compatible
ArcGIS
Compatible
GDAL
Compatible
TopoJSON command-line tools
Compatible

Mobile

Mobile Applications

Limited support through web-based viewers and custom apps
Compatible

Alternative File Formats

Similar formats you can consider

Alternative format for .topojson files
Alternative format for .topojson files
Alternative format for .topojson files
Alternative format for .topojson files

Frequently Asked Questions

About .topojson Files

To open a .topojson file, you need compatible software. Here are some options:

  • QGIS
  • ArcGIS Pro
  • Limited support through web-based viewers and custom apps

Check the "Software Compatibility" section above for a complete list of programs that can open .topojson files on different operating systems.

To convert a .topojson file to another format, you can:

  1. Use compatible software: Many programs that open .topojson files also allow saving or exporting to different formats. For example, you might try using QGIS or QGIS.
  2. Try online conversion services: Websites like Zamzar, CloudConvert, or Online-Convert can transform files between formats without installing software.
  3. Convert to recommended alternatives: For .topojson files, consider converting to .geojson, .shp, .kml for better compatibility.
  4. Specialized conversion tools: Search for ".topojson converter" to find tools specifically designed for this file type.

Note: Converting files may result in some loss of formatting, quality, or functionality depending on the compatibility between formats.

If you're having trouble opening a .topojson file, try these troubleshooting steps:

  1. Verify the file extension is correct: Sometimes files may be incorrectly named. Make sure the file truly is a .topojson file.
  2. Update your software: Ensure you're using the latest version of your chosen program.
  3. Try alternative software: If one program doesn't work, try another from our compatibility list.
  4. Check for file corruption: The file might be damaged. Try to obtain a new copy if possible.
  5. Look for file converters: Converting to a more common format might help.

Like any file type, .topojson files can be safe or potentially risky depending on their source:

  • From trusted sources: Files from reputable websites, colleagues, or friends are generally safe.
  • From unknown sources: Exercise caution with files from unfamiliar websites or emails.

Safety recommendations:

  • Always scan files with antivirus software before opening them
  • Keep your operating system and applications updated
  • Be particularly cautious with executable file types

Common issues with .topojson files include:

  • Compatibility problems: Older or newer versions of software may not fully support certain .topojson files
  • Missing elements: Fonts, media, or other components may not transfer correctly between systems
  • File corruption: Incomplete downloads or transfer errors can damage files
  • Format variations: Different software may implement the .topojson format in slightly different ways

If you're experiencing issues with a specific .topojson file, you might need to:

  • Try opening it with alternative software
  • Ask the file creator to save it in a different format
  • Look for specific patches or updates for your software

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