XAP File Extension

What is XAP file?

XAP files store plugin installation packages for web browsers that support Microsoft Silverlight standard.

What features MS Silverlight offered?

Silverlight was capable of running code written in Java and other programming language (for example, Python). The framework also offered:

• graphics rendering engine,
• HD H.264 video streaming support (introduced in Silverlight 3.0),
• MP3 and WMA audio support,
• support for external devices (mouse and keyboard),
• DRM features.

Which web browser use Silverlight?

Most web browsers offered dedicated plugins for Silverlight, including Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, or SeaMonkey. Modern Chrome and Firefox browsers no longer support this technology, and Microsoft’s own Edge browser has no support for it whatsoever.

How are XAP files used today?

XAP files are now typically used for distributing apps for Windows Phone 7. XAP store apps compressed into ZIP archives along with XAML documents and DLL libraries used by Microsoft mobile development environment.

Programs which support XAP file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support XAP files. Files with XAP suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 08/06/2022

How to open file with XAP extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening XAP files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with XAP files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the Microsoft Silverlight

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports XAP files installed on the system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Microsoft Silverlight or different compatible program, such as Microsoft Windows Phone, Microsoft Visual Studio. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download Microsoft Silverlight installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Microsoft Corporation website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update Microsoft Silverlight to the latest version

You still cannot access XAP files although Microsoft Silverlight is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. If you have an older version of Microsoft Silverlight installed, it may not support XAP format. The latest version of Microsoft Silverlight should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Silverlight Application Package files with Microsoft Silverlight

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

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the XAP file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Microsoft Silverlight is installed, check the Always use this app to open XAP files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the XAP file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with XAP extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the XAP for errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper XAP file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Verify that the XAP in question is not infected with a computer virus

Should it happed that the XAP is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the XAP file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

If you obtained the problematic XAP file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with XAP extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Silverlight Application Package file.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Microsoft Silverlight

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with XAP extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Silverlight Application Package file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle XAP files.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the XAP file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on XAP file.