Opening an OXPS file on Windows 11 isn’t as tricky as it sounds, but you do need to know the right steps. Sometimes Windows doesn’t have the XPS Viewer turned on by default, and that’s where it gets a bit frustrating. Not sure why Microsoft decided to hide it behind optional features, but here we are.
Opening an OXPS File in Windows 11
If an OXPS file pops up and you’re scratching your head wondering what to do, here’s the gist. First off, check if you’ve got the XPS Viewer installed. On some setups, it’s not there until you add it yourself. Path: Settings > Apps > Optional Features. Scroll down and click Add a feature. Look for XPS Viewer, select it, and hit install. It’s a small download, so shouldn’t take long.
Once it’s installed, opening your OXPS file gets way easier. Just double-click the file, and Windows should open it with XPS Viewer by default. But if not, or if you want to be sure:
- Right-click the OXPS file
- Select Open with
- Pick XPS Viewer
If you want to make XPS Viewer your go-to app for these files, right-click the OXPS, choose Open with > Choose another app, then tick Always use this app to open OXPS files. Sometimes Windows isn’t consistent with default apps, so setting it manually helps avoid future probs.
Converting to PDF — Why Bother?
This isn’t mandatory, but it can come in handy. If you want to share or access the file easily on other devices, converting to PDF is a good shout. To do this, open the file in XPS Viewer, go to File > Print, and select Microsoft Print to PDF as your printer. Choose where to save it, and voila — you’ve got a PDF. Easy as. Just fair dinkum to note sometimes the print option can act a bit funny if your drivers need an update or the file’s a bit dodgy.
What to Expect
After following these steps, you should be able to read your OXPS file or convert it if needed. If the file refuses to open, double-check that XPS Viewer is installed and set as the default. Also, a quick reboot or log-off can sometimes get everything running smoothly — no idea why, but it often sorts itself out after a restart.
Tips for Opening an OXPS File in Windows 11
- If XPS Viewer isn’t showing up, install it via Settings > Apps > Optional Features.
- Converting to PDF is a solid backup if you want to share or keep a copy handy.
- Use File Explorer to find your OXPS, right-click, and choose XPS Viewer if it doesn’t open automatically.
- Set XPS Viewer as your default for OXPS files — right-click > Open with > Choose another app > Always use this app.
- Keep Windows up to date. Sometimes, Microsoft makes things a bit more complicated than they need to.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an OXPS file?
It’s basically Microsoft’s take on a PDF — a fixed-layout document designed for sharing protected or formatted content. They’re similar to XPS files, just with an extra ‘O’ for open or related to a specific Microsoft format.
Why can’t I open an OXPS file directly?
Most likely, you’re missing the XPS Viewer or it’s not set as your default app. Sometimes Windows doesn’t include it by default unless you ask for it, which can be a pain.
Can I convert OXPS to another format?
Yep. Just open the file in XPS Viewer, then go to File > Print and select Microsoft Print to PDF. That’s your PDF ready to go.
Is there an alternative to XPS Viewer for viewing OXPS files?
Sure thing. Apps like FreeXPS or other third-party PDF viewers that support OXPS can do the trick. But honestly, if all you want is a quick look, XPS Viewer usually does the job.
How do I set XPS Viewer as my default for OXPS files?
Right-click the file, pick Open with > Choose another app, find XPS Viewer, tick Always use this app, and you’re sorted. Next time, it’ll open automatically when you double-click.
Summary
- Install XPS Viewer if it’s not already there.
- Find your OXPS file in File Explorer.
- Open with XPS Viewer or set it as default.
- Convert to PDF if you need to share or save it easily.
- Reboot if things aren’t behaving.
Hope this helps save you some hassle. Dealing with weird formats can be a pain, but now it’s all manageable.