Convert FON to WOFF

Understanding FON and WOFF file formats

FON files are legacy Windows bitmap font files, commonly used in older Windows applications. They contain font glyphs as bitmaps and are not scalable, making them less suitable for modern web use. WOFF (Web Open Font Format) is a modern, compressed font format designed specifically for use on web pages. WOFF supports scalable vector fonts and is widely supported by all major browsers, making it the preferred choice for web typography.

Why convert FON to WOFF?

Converting FON to WOFF allows you to use legacy bitmap fonts on modern websites. Since WOFF is optimized for web delivery and supports compression, it ensures faster loading times and better compatibility across browsers. This conversion is essential if you want to preserve the look of older fonts in a web environment.

How to convert FON to WOFF

Direct conversion from FON to WOFF is not always straightforward, as FON files are bitmap-based and WOFF requires vector outlines (like those in TTF or OTF). The typical process involves two steps:

1. Convert FON to TTF: Use a font editor to convert the bitmap FON file to a TrueType Font (TTF) file. This may require manual tracing or vectorization, as bitmap fonts do not contain vector outlines.
2. Convert TTF to WOFF: Once you have a TTF file, you can easily convert it to WOFF using online converters or font editing software.

Recommended software and tools

• FontForge: A free, open-source font editor that can import FON files and export them as TTF. After creating a TTF, you can use FontForge to export as WOFF via File → Generate Fonts… and select WOFF as the output format.
• Online Font Converter: Websites like Online Font Converter allow you to upload TTF files and convert them to WOFF easily.
• Transfonter: Transfonter is a user-friendly web tool for converting TTF/OTF fonts to WOFF and WOFF2 formats, ideal for web use.

Step-by-step conversion process

1. Open your FON file in FontForge.
2. Use File → Generate Fonts… and select TrueType to export as TTF.
3. Open the TTF file in FontForge or upload it to an online converter like Transfonter.
4. Export or download the resulting WOFF file.

Tips and considerations

• Bitmap fonts may not scale well when converted to vector formats. Manual editing may be required for best results.
• Always check the licensing of the original FON font before using it on the web.
• Test the WOFF font in multiple browsers to ensure compatibility and appearance.