If you are trying to open an image file in Paint on Windows 11 and see the error message “Cannot read this file,” it can be frustrating. This error usually means Paint has trouble understanding the file format or the file might be corrupted.
The good news is that there are simple ways to fix this problem. You don’t need to be a tech expert to try them.
In this article, we will guide you step-by-step through easy solutions to help you open your image files in Paint again.
Follow along carefully, and you should be able to get Paint working normally.
Quick Note Before You Start
Before trying the steps below, make sure of the following:
- Your image file is not corrupted or damaged. Try opening it with another image viewer like Photos or a web browser.
- The file format is supported by Paint. Common supported formats include .bmp, .jpg, .png, and .gif.
- You have the latest Windows 11 updates installed, as these can fix bugs and improve app performance.
Step 1: Verify the File Format
Paint supports specific image formats. If your file is in an unsupported format, Paint won’t be able to open it.
How to check the file format:
- Right-click the image file and choose Properties.
- Look at the Type of file or the file extension (the letters after the dot, like .jpg or .png).
If the file extension is not one of the common image types, try converting the file to a supported format using an online converter or another app.
Step 2: Rename the File Extension
Sometimes, the file extension might be incorrect. For example, a .jpeg file saved as .jpg might confuse Paint.
How to rename the file extension:
- Right-click the file and select Rename.
- Change the extension to a supported format like
.pngor.jpg. - Press Enter, and confirm the change if prompted.
- Then try opening the file in Paint again.
This simple fix can often resolve the error if the file extension was incorrect.
Step 3: Open the File Using Photos App and Save As
If Paint still cannot open the file, try using the Windows Photos app as a middle step.
How to do this:
- Right-click the image file and choose Open with > Photos.
- If the file opens, click the Edit image icon or the Save a Copy option.
- Save the file as a new PNG or JPEG file.
- Try opening this new file in Paint.
This works because Photos can sometimes read files that Paint cannot, and saving a new copy fixes file structure issues.
Step 4: Reset or Repair Paint App
If the problem persists, the Paint application itself might be corrupted or have glitches.
To reset or repair Paint:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Apps > Installed apps or Apps > Apps & features.
- Find Paint in the list and click the three dots next to it.
- Select Advanced options.
- Click Repair first. After it finishes, try opening the file again.
- If that doesn’t help, click Reset. This will restore Paint to default settings.
Resetting fixes any app-level problems that might cause the “Cannot read this file” error.
Step 5: Update Windows and Graphic Drivers
Outdated system files or drivers can cause issues with apps like Paint.
Updating Windows:
- Open Settings using Windows + I.
- Go to Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
Updating graphic drivers:
- Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Display adapters section.
- Right-click your graphics card and choose Update driver.
- Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
Keeping Windows and drivers updated ensures Paint runs smoothly.
Alternative Method: Use Another Image Editor
If you need to open the image urgently and Paint keeps failing, try using other free image editors like Paint.NET, GIMP, or IrfanView. These programs support a wider range of formats and might open the file without errors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does Paint say “Cannot read this file”?
This usually happens because the file format is unsupported, the file is corrupted, or Paint itself has a problem.
Can I fix corrupted image files?
Some corrupted files can be fixed using online repair tools or by opening and saving them in other apps like Photos or Photoshop.
Is Paint the best tool for opening all image files?
No, Paint supports only basic image formats. For complex or uncommon formats, other editors might be better.
Will resetting Paint delete my images?
No, resetting Paint only restores the app settings. Your image files remain safe.
How do I know if the file is corrupted?
If multiple apps cannot open the file, it is likely corrupted.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the steps above and Paint still cannot open your file, consider these final options:
- Use professional image recovery tools or services.
- Look for official Microsoft support and forums for Paint and Windows 11.
- Try reinstalling Paint using Windows optional features or the Microsoft Store.
- Backup your files and consider restoring your system to an earlier point if the problem started recently.
Conclusion
The “Cannot read this file” error in Paint on Windows 11 can usually be fixed by checking the file format, renaming the extension, or using the Photos app to save a new copy. If the Paint app itself is causing problems, resetting or repairing it often helps.
Keeping your system and drivers updated ensures Paint works smoothly. When all else fails, alternative image editors or official support can be your next steps.
By following these step-by-step solutions, you should be able to open your images in Paint without frustration.