How to Fix Acrobat Error 36 When Opening PDFs on macOS Sierra
Question details
The user is unable to open PDF files by double-clicking them on macOS Sierra due to an Error 36 prompt, despite the Acrobat Pro application opening normally.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Pro
- Device & OS
- macOS Sierra
- Scenario
- Attempting to open a PDF file by double-clicking it after a recent macOS Sierra update.
- Observed behavior
- The system throws an Error 36 and fails to open the PDF file directly from the Finder.
Ensure you know your exact Adobe Acrobat version and check its compatibility with macOS Sierra before attempting to reinstall or modify system settings.
Reset Default PDF Application and File Association
Re-establishing the file association can resolve instances where macOS fails to route the PDF correctly to Acrobat after an update.
Often, system updates can corrupt how macOS handles specific file extensions. Resetting the 'Open With' settings forces the operating system to rebuild the link between PDF files and Adobe Acrobat.
Right-click (or Control-click) on any PDF file stored on your Mac.
Click on 'Get Info' from the context menu to open the file properties window.
Expand the 'Open with' section, select Adobe Acrobat Pro from the dropdown menu, and click the 'Change All' button to apply this application to all PDF documents on your system.
Verify Version Compatibility and Reinstall Acrobat
macOS Sierra updates can break older versions of Acrobat. Ensuring you have a compatible, freshly installed version can fix Error 36.
Open and Edit PDFs Smoothly with WPS Office on Mac
If your current PDF reader continues to show Error 36 on macOS, consider switching to WPS Office. It includes a powerful, built-in PDF reader and editor that is lightweight, highly compatible, and completely free to use.
- 1. Download and Install: Get WPS Office for Mac from the official website and install the application.
- 2. Set as Default: Right-click a PDF, choose 'Get Info', select WPS Office under the 'Open with' section, and click 'Change All'.
- 3. Open PDF Seamlessly: Double-click any PDF file to instantly open it without encountering Error 36.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Error 36 mean on macOS?
Error 36 on macOS is typically a file system error where the system struggles to read or write specific file data. In the context of opening PDFs, it usually points to a broken file association or an OS-level compatibility glitch after a system update.
Can I open my PDFs if Acrobat Pro isn't working?
Yes, you can use the built-in Mac Preview app or an alternative suite like WPS Office to view and edit your PDF files while you troubleshoot the primary software issue.
Will updating my macOS fix Acrobat Error 36?
It might. Apple often releases patch updates to fix file system bugs introduced in major OS rollouts. Navigate to 'System Preferences' > 'Software Update' to ensure your Mac has the latest stability patches.
