# Post processor

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Component of CNC software

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A **post processor**, also known simply as a **post**, is a [computer program](/source/Computer_program) which converts tool path data from [CNC](/source/Computer_numerical_control) software into machine tool data, to be used in [CAM](/source/Computer-aided_manufacturing) systems.[1][2] A post processor generates the [G-code](/source/G-code) used by the machine control module.[3] The generated code will differ for each G-code dialect the post-processor supports, and will often be customized to match the limitations of the machine.[4] Post processors can be either [open](/source/Open-source_software)- or [closed-source software](/source/Proprietary_software); closed-source posts are usually created by CAM vendors, while open-source ones are made by the community or home users.[5][6] It can be difficult, however, to custom-write post-processors, as the [code syntax](/source/Syntax_(programming_languages)) used by the machine often varies; several efforts have been made to create a [standard](/source/Standardization) language.[1]

Post-processors can be generic (being programmed for one machine) machine-specific, or custom-built.[7] Post processors can also be used to auto-create pocket routines or, in specific cases, run robots using G-code instructions.[5]

## See also

- [Preprocessor](/source/Preprocessor)

- [Transpiler](/source/Transpiler)

- [PostCSS](/source/PostCSS)

## References

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-:0_1-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-:0_1-1) Xun, Xu (2009-01-31). [*Integrating Advanced Computer-Aided Design, Manufacturing, and Numerical Control: Principles and Implementations: Principles and Implementations*](https://www.google.com/books/edition/Integrating_Advanced_Computer_Aided_Desi/habcATPQWJ4C?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=post+processor&pg=PA238&printsec=frontcover). IGI Global. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-1-59904-716-4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-59904-716-4).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-2)** Brown, Marcus (2019-08-19). ["What is a Post Processor?"](https://www.mlc-cad.com/resources/mastercam/what-is-a-post-processor/). *MLC CAD Systems*. Retrieved 2026-05-06.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-3)** ["What is a Post Processor?"](https://www.okuma.com/blog/what-is-a-post-processor). *www.okuma.com*. Retrieved 2026-05-06.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-4)** McClements, Dean (December 7, 2023). ["Post-Processor: Definition, How It Works, and Uses"](https://www.xometry.com/resources/machining/what-is-a-post-processor/). *Xometry*. Retrieved 5 May 2026.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-:1_5-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-:1_5-1) Evans, Jim. ["Notes on Posts : Modern Machine Shop"](https://web.archive.org/web/20110519182051/http://www.mmsonline.com/articles/notes-on-posts). *www.mmsonline.com*. Archived from [the original](http://www.mmsonline.com/articles/notes-on-posts) on 2011-05-19. Retrieved 2026-05-06.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-6)** ["What Is a CNC Post Processor and Why Do I Need One?"](https://tormach.com/articles/what-is-a-cnc-post-processor-and-why-do-i-need-one). *Tormach*. 5 May 2026.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-7)** admin (2025-12-11). ["What Is a CNC Post Processor and Why Does It Matter?"](https://mechmansolution.com/blogs/what-is-a-cnc-post-processor-and-why-does-it-matter/). *Mechman Solution*. Retrieved 2026-05-06.

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Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Post processor](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post_processor) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post_processor?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.