.LYR File Extension
ArcView Layer File
| Developer | ESRI |
| Popularity | |
| Category | Misc Files |
| Format | .LYR |
| Cross Platform | Update Soon |
What is an LYR file?
.LYR files are ArcView Layer files associated with Esri’s ArcGIS software suite. These files contain information about map layers, including symbology, labeling, and other properties.
More Information.
.LYR files were introduced to facilitate the organization and management of map layers within ArcView, one of the components of the ArcGIS software suite. They allow users to save the visual representation and properties of map layers for future use and sharing.
Origin Of This File.
The .LYR file format was introduced by Esri, a leading provider of Geographic Information System (GIS) software.
File Structure Technical Specification.
LYR files store information such as layer symbology, labeling settings, transparency, and other properties in a structured format compatible with ArcGIS software. They may also reference data sources such as shapefiles or feature classes.
How to Convert the File?
Windows:
- Open ArcGIS Desktop software.
- Load the .LYR file you want to convert.
- Right-click on the layer in the Table of Contents.
- Select “Data” > “Export Data”.
- Choose the desired output format (e.g., .KMZ, .KML).
- Specify the output location and click “Save” to convert the .LYR file.
Linux:
- Install ArcGIS Desktop software using Wine or other compatibility layers.
- Follow the steps for conversion as described for Windows.
Mac:
- Install ArcGIS Desktop software on your Mac using virtualization software such as Parallels Desktop or VMware Fusion.
- Follow the steps for conversion as described for Windows.
Android:
- Use ArcGIS Runtime SDK for Android to develop a custom application.
- Implement functionality to load and display .LYR files.
- Optionally, provide options to export or convert the data to other formats within your application.
iOS:
- Utilize ArcGIS Runtime SDK for iOS to develop a custom application.
- Implement functionality to load and display .LYR files.
- Optionally, provide options to export or convert the data to other formats within your application.
Others:
- Use Esri’s ArcGIS software or compatible applications available for your platform.
- Follow the steps for conversion as described for Windows, adapting as necessary for the specific software or application being used.
Advantages And Disadvantages.
Advantages:
- Organize and store map layer properties.
- Facilitate sharing of map layers with consistent symbology and labeling.
- Enable quick customization and styling of map layers.
Disadvantages:
- Limited compatibility with non-Esri software.
- May become outdated if not regularly updated with changes to data sources or software versions.
How to Open LYR?
Open In Windows
.LYR files can be opened in Windows using ArcGIS Desktop software or any application compatible with Esri’s file formats.
Open In Linux
.LYR files can be opened in Linux using ArcGIS Desktop software installed through Wine or other compatibility layers.
Open In MAC
LYR files can be opened in macOS using ArcGIS Desktop software or virtualization software running Windows.
Open In Android
.LYR files can be opened on Android devices using ArcGIS Runtime SDK for Android or ArcGIS Explorer app.
Open In IOS
.LYR files can be opened on iOS devices using ArcGIS Runtime SDK for iOS or ArcGIS Explorer app.
Open in Others
.LYR files can be opened in other platforms using Esri’s ArcGIS software or compatible applications that support Esri’s file formats.
