SVG - Scalable Vector Graphics File

What is a SVG file

SVG stands for Scalable Vector Graphics. It is a file format used for creating and displaying vector graphics on the web. Unlike raster graphics (such as JPEG or PNG), which use a grid of pixels to create an image, vector graphics use mathematical equations and geometric shapes. As the result, the SVG files are resolution-independent and can be scaled to any size without losing quality.

SVG files are typically used for creating logos, icons, and other graphics that need to be displayed at multiple sizes or on different devices.

SVG files can also be:

  • hand-coded using a text editor and knowledge of SVG syntax
  • animated and interactive using JavaScript and CSS
  • embedded directly into HTML documents or included as external files
  • compressed using various tools to reduce file size and improve load times
  • converted to other file formats such as PNG, JPEG, PDF, and EPS
  • embedded within PDF files

How do I open a SVG file

Here are some commonly used programs capable of opening SVG files:

  • Adobe Illustrator
  • Inkscape
  • CorelDRAW
  • GIMP
  • Affinity Designer
  • LibreOffice Draw
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Apple Preview

Note that some web browsers, such as Chrome and Firefox, can also open SVG files.