Open SHP files online
Shapefiles are the most common GIS vector format, storing points, lines and polygons. The viewer reads the .shp geometry and plots it on an interactive map.
Drop a SHP file to open it
or click to choose — everything stays on your device
Choose file🔒 100% private — files never leave your browser
Or turn SHP into an image — snapshot the preview, add arrows or notes, and download a PNG.
What is a SHP file?
Shapefiles are the most common GIS vector format, storing points, lines and polygons. The viewer reads the .shp geometry and plots it on an interactive map. The .SHP extension identifies a Esri Shapefile file, which is served with the application/vnd.shp media type. You can open it here instantly — drop the file into the box above and it renders in your browser. Nothing is uploaded.
Besides this free online viewer, you can open Shapefile (SHP) files in desktop apps such as QGIS, ArcGIS — but here all you need is a web browser.
Quick facts
| Format | Shapefile (SHP) — Esri Shapefile |
|---|---|
| File extensions | .shp |
| MIME type | application/vnd.shp |
| Developer | Esri |
| Category | 3D, CAD & GIS |
| Also opens in | QGIS, ArcGIS |
How to open a SHP file online
- Click Choose file above, or drag your SHP file onto the box.
- The right viewer loads automatically and renders your file.
- Read, scroll or page through it. To open a different file, choose Open another file.
100% private — files never leave your browser.
Libraries used to render SHP in the browser
This viewer is built entirely with open-source JavaScript that runs in your browser:
Frequently asked questions
What is a .SHP file?
A .SHP file is a Esri Shapefile, identified by the application/vnd.shp media type. You can open and read it instantly in the viewer above without installing anything.
What programs open SHP files?
On the desktop, SHP files typically open in QGIS, ArcGIS. Online, this page opens them in any modern browser — nothing to download.
How do I convert SHP to an image?
Use Snapshot to capture the SHP preview, optionally add arrows, text or highlights, then download it as a PNG image.
Is it safe to open my SHP file here?
Yes. The file is read and rendered entirely by JavaScript inside your own browser. It is never uploaded to a server, so nothing leaves your device.
Do I need to install anything to view a SHP file?
No. There is nothing to install and no account to create. Open the page, drop your file, and it displays instantly.
Does it work on my phone or iPad?
Yes. The viewer is fully responsive and works in modern mobile and tablet browsers such as Safari and Chrome.
Is there a file size limit?
There is no hard limit, but very large files depend on your device’s memory. Big files are processed in the background so the page stays responsive.