XPS File Extension

What is XPS file?

An .XPS file is a page layout file that is saved in Microsoft XPS format. The XPS file, also known as the XML Paper Specification file, describes the structure and content for the document including the page layout and appearance details. The XPS file is similar to the PDF file; however, the XPS file is supported in XML format. Also, the XPS file can be used consistently across various platforms and operating systems. The XPS file access permission can be set by using the XPS Viewer and also the XPS file can be digitally signed using the XPS Viewer.

Programs which support XPS file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support XPS files. XPS files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 12/11/2021

How to open file with XPS extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening XPS files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to XML Paper Specification 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. Get the Microsoft XPS Viewer

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening XPS files is that no program that can handle XPS files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select Microsoft XPS Viewer or one of the recommended programs (for example, XpsViewer, PDF Converter Professional, XpsConvert) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. If you want to download Microsoft XPS Viewer installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Microsoft Corporation website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Check the version of Microsoft XPS Viewer and update if needed

You still cannot access XPS files although Microsoft XPS Viewer 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. This can be one of the causes why XPS files are not compatible with Microsoft XPS Viewer. The latest version of Microsoft XPS Viewer should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate XML Paper Specification Format files with Microsoft XPS Viewer

After installing Microsoft XPS Viewer (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open XPS files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Clicking the XPS with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• 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 XPS Viewer is installed, check the Always use this app to open XPS files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with XPS extension, select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select Microsoft XPS Viewer and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with XPS extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

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

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the XPS file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

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

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the XPS file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. XPS file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Verify that the XPS file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic XPS 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 XPS extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Microsoft XPS Viewer

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

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

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with XML Paper Specification Format file. It may be the case that the XPS files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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