CGI File Type

- The quick facts

What are CGI files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening a CGI file or just wondering what they contain? We explain what these files are used for and show you software that we know can open or otherwise handle your files.

What is a CGI file?

CGI stands for Common Gateway Interface. Files that contain the .cgi file extension are are script files that are written in the C or Perl programming languages. These files are used to create web pages and they are usually stored within the cgi-bin folder of a website directory. The files define how web server software delegates the generation of certain web pages including executable files and stand-alone applications. These are often referred to as CGI scripts.

CGI scripts can be written in any programming language, but scripting languages are most commonly used to create these pages. CGI files are commonly used to run basic Web scripts, enabling website features such as integrated email message forms and rotating advertisements.

How to open CGI files

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

While we have not verified the apps ourselves yet, our users have suggested 10 different CGI openers which you will find listed below.

Last updated: January 18, 2022

Various apps that use files with this extension

These apps are known to open certain types of CGI files. Remember, different programs may use CGI 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 CGI file formats, example files, or compatible programs. Please use the links below or email us at submit@file.org to discuss further.