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How To

Export a Netlist from KiCad

Nov. 21, 2025 · ~3 min read

Step-by-step instructions for generating a KiCad .net netlist from Eeschema so you can upload it directly to Netlist.io.

Key takeaways

  1. Open the project schematic inside KiCad's Eeschema.
  2. Use the Generate Netlist button or File -> Export -> Netlist.
  3. Configure the export format to kicad so the output targets Pcbnew.
  4. Save the file with a .net extension and a clear name.
  5. Upload the KiCad .net file to Netlist.io for automated review.

If you're designing PCBs in KiCad and want to run automated schematic checks with Netlist.io, you'll need to export a KiCad netlist (.net) from your schematic. This guide walks through how to generate the netlist from Eeschema and get it ready for upload.

1. Open your KiCad schematic

Launch KiCad and open your project. Then open the schematic editor (Eeschema) for the design you want Netlist.io to review.

Make sure everything is annotated and current so your generated netlist matches the live schematic.

2. Find the "Generate Netlist" tool

In the Eeschema toolbar, look for the Generate Netlist button (an arrow pointing to a document). You can also access it from the menu:

  • File -> Export -> Netlist...

This opens the KiCad netlist export dialog.

3. Configure the KiCad netlist export

Inside the Netlist dialog:

  1. Set the format to kicad (the standard option for Pcbnew and most KiCad workflows).
  2. Optionally enable an XML export if you need it later for BOM tools—it's not required for Netlist.io.

For Netlist.io, the key deliverable is the standard KiCad .net netlist.

4. Save the netlist as a 
.net
file

Click Netlist or Export Netlist (label varies across KiCad releases). A save dialog appears:

  1. Choose a folder (storing it alongside your KiCad project keeps things organized).
  2. Give the file a clear name, like 
    my_project_schematic.net
  3. Confirm that the extension is 
    .net

This file is the artifact Netlist.io will parse.

5. (Optional) Verify the generated netlist

Want to sanity-check the output?

  1. Open the 
    .net
    file in a text editor.
  2. You'll see sections for components and the 
    (nets)
    block that lists each connection and its pins.

Reviewing the text can help debug net naming or connectivity if needed.

6. Upload your KiCad netlist to Netlist.io

Once the .net file is ready:

  1. Visit Netlist.io in your browser.
  2. Sign in or create an account.
  3. Upload the KiCad netlist during intake.

Netlist.io will read the KiCad netlist, cross-reference your datasheets, and highlight schematic issues before fabrication.

Quick recap

  • Open your project in KiCad Eeschema.
  • Use File -> Export -> Netlist... or the toolbar button.
  • Set the format to kicad.
  • Save the file with a 
    .net
     extension.
  • Upload the KiCad netlist to Netlist.io for automated review.