EX_ File Extension

What is EX_ file?

EX_ is a compressed EXE executable file. EX_ file stores the actual EXE executable file for a given program or application.

The idea behind EX_ format

EX_ files are used for installer archivization purposes and to reduce file size. After installation, the files are decompressed and renamed as original EXE files. Reduced installer file size facilitates sending the files on the internet.

Creating EX_ files

EX_ archive files are generated basd on original EXE files using Windows tool Makecab. Reversing the process is possible by using Windows expand.exe tool. EX_ archive is named the same as the original EXE file.

Programs which support EX_ file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support EX_ files. Files with EX_ extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 01/28/2020

How to open file with EX_ extension?

Being unable to open files with EX_ extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Compressed Executable Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install Microsoft Expand software

Problems with opening and working with EX_ files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with EX_ files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install Microsoft Expand or one to the listed programs: Microsoft Windows, Windows Installer. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download Microsoft Expand installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update Microsoft Expand to the latest version

If the problems with opening EX_ files still occur even after installing Microsoft Expand, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft Expand is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that Microsoft Expand cannot handle files with EX_ may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of Microsoft Expand should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Compressed Executable Format files with Microsoft Expand

After installing Microsoft Expand (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open EX_ files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Change the default application in Windows

• Clicking the EX_ with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Microsoft Expand installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open EX_ files box and clicking OK button.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with EX_ extension, select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select Microsoft Expand and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with EX_ extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Ensure that the EX_ file is complete and free of errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the EX_ file is valid. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. The EX_ may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the EX_ is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. EX_ file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Ensure the file with EX_ extension is complete and error-free

Did you receive the EX_ file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with EX_ extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle Microsoft Expand

If the systems has insufficient resources to open EX_ files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Compressed Executable Format files. It may be the case that the EX_ files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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