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DGN is the native file format for Bentley MicroStation, a CAD platform used primarily in civil engineering, transportation infrastructure, utilities, and plant design. If AutoCAD dominates architecture, MicroStation owns roads, bridges, railways, and power grids.
The format has been through two major versions: DGN v7 (Intergraph's original format, fixed-record binary) and DGN v8 (based on OGC's GeoPackage-like structure, supporting unlimited levels, multiple models, and true database-style element storage). V8 DGN files can store 2D/3D geometry, cell libraries, reference attachments, rendering materials, and project metadata. The format also supports geospatial coordinate systems natively — crucial for infrastructure projects that span kilometres.
DGN competes directly with DWG in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction) market. In practice, the division is often geographic and disciplinary: North American architects tend toward AutoCAD/DWG, while European and Asian infrastructure projects frequently use MicroStation/DGN. Government transportation departments (DOTs) in several US states mandate DGN for highway design deliverables.