Are layer files compatible between ArcGIS 10 and 9.3?

Question

If I save layer files in ArcGIS 10, can they be opened and modified in ArcGIS 9.3?

Answer 1

No. I receive this error in 9.3.1:

You have to save them at the correct version. Right-click on a layer, select Save As Layer File...

Then use the Save as type drop down list to select different versions of layer file.

Answer 2

ESRI products is not backward compatible, as a workaround save as the layer file at version 9.3.1 to open and edit the layer flie at 9.3.1.