4DB File

What are 4DB files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening a 4DB file or are you simply curious about its contents? We're here to explain the properties of these files and provide you with software that can open or handle your 4DB files.

What is a 4DB file?

A .4DB file is a 4th Dimension Database file.

4th Dimension Database Structure File (.4DB) is a binary file used by the 4D relational database and development environment. It stores the design and logic of a 4D database application, including table definitions, field settings, form layouts, scripts (methods), menus, choice lists and password settings. It does not store the actual user data; that is kept in separate data files.

Files with the .4DB extension are created and maintained by 4D (also called 4th Dimension) when building a "binary database." Developers load this structure file inside the 4D IDE or 4D Server alongside the data files to run or modify the application. Starting with 4D version 17 and later, structure files can be exported as a "project database," transforming structure content into many text files to support source control.

Byte‐signature checks reveal the file's format: the first four bytes are 44 44 55 56 in hexadecimal ("DDUV" in ASCII).

How to open 4DB files

Important: Different programs may use files with the 4DB file extension for different purposes, so unless you are sure which format your 4DB file is, you may need to try a few different programs.

While we have not verified the apps ourselves yet, our users have suggested ten different 4DB openers which you will find listed below.

Last updated: August 16, 2026

Various apps that use files with this extension

These apps are known to open certain types of 4DB files. Remember, different programs may use 4DB files for different purposes, so you may need to try out a few of them to be able to open your specific file.

Help us help others

File.org helps thousands of users every day, and we would love to hear from you if you have additional information about 4DB file formats, example files, or compatible programs. Please use the links below or email us at submit@file.org to discuss further.