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Help & Info about Inkscape for Windows

  • What is Inkscape?

    It is a digital image-editing program that is used to create and modify vector images. Due to its capabilities and tools, it is often considered a free alternative to Adobe Illustrator.

  • Is Inkscape free?

    Yes, as an open-source program, it is completely free, with no hidden payments or paid upgrades. The design community has also developed a number of free extensions for the program, which enhance its functionality.

  • Is Inkscape safe?

    As a reputable and widely-used program, it is generally considered to be safe. Moreover, there have been no reports of malicious software being included with the program. If you’re concerned about the integrity of this program, use an online or computer-based virus scanner to scan for malicious activity.

  • What is Inkscape used for?

    As a vector-editing program, it is particularly useful in situations where a designer needs the precision and scalability of vectors. For example, commercial printing typically requires the use of vector images to ensure the clarity of the final print. A vector-editing program is also useful for designing logos as these graphical assets often need to be exported at multiple sizes without the loss of quality.

  • Does Inkscape work on Mac?

    Yes, the current version of the program can be installed on computers using macOS and some versions of the Mac OS X operating systems. Older versions of Mac operating systems may be able to support previous version of the software. To install the program on a Mac, you will need to download and install the XQuartz package of software.

  • Can inkscape open AI files?

    The program can import many vector file formats, including Adobe Illustrator’s proprietary document format – files with the .ai extension. It can also open multiple other vector formats, including EPS, SVG and PDF.

  • Can Inkscape save as AI?

    No, the program no longer allows users to export files as Adobe Illustrator (AI) files. If you need to export your work to an Adobe Illustrator compatible file, select the SVG format. This format is compatible with most vector-based programs, so it represents a good choice for document storage.

  • Can Inkscape open PSD files?

    As Adobe Photoshop documents are not entirely vector-based, the program cannot open them natively. There is an extension available that allows the program to import PSD files; however, this extension only allows the vector-based shape layers in the file to be imported.

  • Does Inkscape have layers?

    Yes, like other graphic-editing software, the program uses layers, which can be added, removed, merged and modified using the Layers panel. Layers also support opacity settings and blending modes. These settings can be used to achieve different looks for your work based on the interaction of overlapping layers.

  • Does Inkscape have Live Trace?

    Yes, the program has a feature similar to Adobe Illustrator’s Live Trace, allowing users to convert bitmap images into vector paths. To vectorize an image, simply select it and activate the Trace Bitmap function via the Path menu. From the Trace Bitmap option box, you will be able to adjust the trace settings to achieve a desired result.

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Laws concerning the use of this software vary from country to country. We do not encourage or condone the use of this program if it is in violation of these laws.
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Is Inkscape safe?

100/100

Score result: Clean

This file passed a comprehensive security scan using VirusTotal technology. It is safe to download.

  • Virus free
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  • Malware free

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Scan Info

Last scan
Wednesday, August 13, 2025
Scan provider
VirusTotal · Full report

File Integrity

File
Inkscape_V1.4.2.exe
SHA256
55b0ab13bb3ef77fb9cff80e6cbe02913d6149e60ef4e9d86534ba3208a99bba
SHA1
b4d92073a64537d61ca910933fe65cc2cd264a82

Softonic security commitment

Inkscape has been thoroughly scanned by our advanced security systems and verified by industry-leading partners. This file comes from the official developer and has passed all our security checks, showing no signs of viruses, malware, or spyware. For more information, visit our Security and Trust Center