Online bridge is about a lot more than just bids, tricks, or strategy.

Since the start of bridge for PC and mobile, we’ve had file extensions.

File extensions refer to the prefix that’s attached to files as identifiers, like .exe or .doc. Without this identifier (or the right program installed to open it), the system has no idea what to do with the file.

Files saved as the wrong file extension can also confuse the system.

Looking for information on computer bridge file extensions like .lin and .pbn? Here’s what you should know.

What Are Bridge File Extensions?

Bridge has an entire selection of file extensions, including .lin, .pbn, and .dlm.

The majority of these file extensions are bridge hand files, which can be exported (saved) or imported into the appropriate bridge software.

From there, information should be shown move-by-move in electronic format.

Thanks to bridge hand files like these, we’re able to save entire hands. More than this, we’re also able to share, examine, or critically analyze them.

Looking for File Extensions?

There are literally thousands of different file extensions out there.

Seen something that you don’t recognize or can’t open?

Check sites like DotWhat or File.org first. It’s likely that the file extension you’re looking for is listed and identifiable.

Converting Bridge Extensions

File extensions can sometimes be converted from one format to another.

This is useful for moments where (1) files are dated, or (2) the correct program isn’t available, or (3) you’d like to share the file with someone who doesn’t have the first software option.

Here’s a thread from the BBO forum about how to convert between .lin and .pbn files.

Fixing File Confusion

File extensions can sometimes be confused where there are two programs using the same file extension, but for different purposes.

.lin files are one example. They’re used for bridge, but they’re also used by AutoCAD. If you happen to have AutoCAD installed, then your PC might associate these files with this software first.

If this happens to you, right click on the file, then select Open File With. From there, select the correct software.

Essential Bridge Extensions

Here are the most common file extensions for bridge hands.

LIN

.lin files contain bridge hands. It’s one of the most common extensions you’ll see.

PBN

.pbn files also contain bridge hands. See the thread from the BBO Forum about file conversion if you’re having trouble with these.

DLM

If you’ve spotted .dlm, it’s a file associated with software Dealmaster.

DUP

.dup is associated with Duplimate.

TXT

Text files are associated with word processors, most commonly Notepad. Other word processors (like MS Word) can open these, too.

Text files can also include bridge hands.