XSN File Extension

What is XSN file?

XSN is an archive container format associated with Microsoft InfoPath software tool. XSN is a CAB archive that contains template data, template formatting, additional graphics, and scripts. InfoPath can be used to recover contents of XSN files. XSN files are a form template files used fro creating different documents.

Microsoft InfoPath

Infopath is a template management tool. Template data is stored in separated files or using MS Access database software. Infopath is a purely graphical tool for creating and editing templates. Infopath was officially discontinued on 31 January 2014, but Infopath license is still available for purchase and updates are still released regularly.

Programs which support XSN file extension

The following listing features XSN-compatible programs. XSN files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 07/05/2023

How to open file with XSN extension?

Problems with accessing XSN may be due to various reasons. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to InfoPath Form Template Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with XSN files.

Step 1. Get the InfoPath

Problems with opening and working with XSN files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with XSN files being present on your machine. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing InfoPath or different compatible program, such as Microsoft Office. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit InfoPath website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of InfoPath

You still cannot access XSN files although InfoPath is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that InfoPath cannot handle files with XSN may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of InfoPath is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open XSN files to InfoPath

After installing InfoPath (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open XSN files. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the XSN file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where InfoPath is installed, check the Always use this app to open XSN files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Change the default application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected XSN file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select InfoPath and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with XSN extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the XSN for errors

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

1. Check the XSN file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the XSN 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. XSN file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If the XSN file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. When downloading the file with XSN extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

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 InfoPath Form Template Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open InfoPath

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support XSN files. Close all running programs and try opening the XSN file.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with InfoPath Form Template Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with XSN files affecting older versions of given software.

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