Opening an XPS file in Windows 11 isn’t as straightforward as it used to be in the good old days, mainly because Microsoft kinda dropped the ball and didn’t include XPS Viewer by default. If you’re like me, you might go poking around in Settings, only to find the app isn’t installed yet. That’s the first hurdle.
So, here’s how it’s worked on a few setups: you need to add XPS Viewer manually through Optional Features. It’s not tricky, but it can be a bit frustrating because Windows 11 keeps hiding things behind menus that aren’t obvious at first glance.
Once you’ve got it installed, opening XPS files is just like opening any other document—right-click, select “Open with,” and pick XPS Viewer. Easy enough, but on some machines, this step can be a bit fiddly—sometimes you’ll need a restart or a quick cache wipe to see the app appear in the list.
Here’s what you need to do step-by-step:
Method 1: Install XPS Viewer from Optional Features
- Head to Settings > Apps > Optional features
- Click on Add a feature — it’s that tiny button at the top
- Search for
XPS Viewer— don’t assume it’s there automatically, some builds hide it or call it something like “Windows XPS Viewer” - Check the box and hit Install
- Once it’s installing, give it a moment. You might need to restart your PC to get it to register properly
Why does this work? Because Windows 11’s default setup no longer includes the viewer, probably to push folks towards PDFs—because, of course, Windows loves making things a bit more complicated. Installing it manually means you can open those XPS files without any drama.
Method 2: Open the XPS File
- Open File Explorer— shortcut with Windows + E
- Find your XPS file somewhere in your folder setup
- Right-click the file, pick Open with, then select XPS Viewer
- If XPS Viewer isn’t listed, double-check you installed it earlier and maybe give your machine a quick restart
On some setups, the “Open with” dialog doesn’t show the XPS Viewer right away. In that case, try choosing Choose another app and browse to where it’s installed—usually somewhere like C:\Program Files\XPSViewer. Not the prettiest, but it works.
Final tip: Set XPS Viewer as default
If you open XPS files often, saving a step is handy. Right-click an XPS file, select Open with, then Choose another app. Check the box that says Always use this app, and select XPS Viewer. Now, double-clicking an XPS file should just open it straight away, no worries.
Heads up—sometimes, on different setups, apps don’t register right away, or you need to set the default manually. Windows 11 can be a bit fussy, so don’t be surprised if things feel a tad sluggish at first.
Top Tips to Make Life Easier
- Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date—some updates fix these odd feature issues.
- If you can’t find XPS Viewer in optional features, check Microsoft’s official site—you might need a standalone package or a specific update.
- Consider converting smaller or less important XPS files to PDFs—there are heaps of online tools or third-party apps for that, just in case native support is playing up.
- If you need more features, look into third-party XPS viewers—some are free and might serve you better than the default app.
FAQs
What’s an XPS file anyway?
It’s basically a PDF alternative, based on XML. Some old printers and document sharing systems still use it, especially when they want to keep the layout locked in. It’s a file you want to view exactly as it was formatted.
Why’s Windows 11 so stubborn about it?
Because Microsoft’s decided not to include it by default anymore, probably to push folks towards PDFs. The XPS format feels kinda dead-end, so they make you jump through hoops just to view one. Classic Microsoft move.
Can I turn an XPS into a PDF?
Absolutely. Plenty of online tools or apps can do that — just upload, convert, and download. Be cautious if your files are sensitive, though.
Is there a better app than XPS Viewer?
Yeah, loads of third-party viewers can open XPS files. Adobe Acrobat can handle it with the right plugin, or you can try free options online. Sometimes they’re quicker and easier to navigate.
What if I want to ditch XPS Viewer?
Just go back to Settings > Apps > Optional features. Find XPS Viewer, click Uninstall. Easy as!
Quick Wrap-up
- Install XPS Viewer via Optional Features
- Browse to your XPS file in File Explorer
- Right-click and open with XPS Viewer
- View, print, or interact with the file
- Set it as default if you’re a regular user
Hopefully, this saves someone a bit of hassle. Dealing with Windows’ weird file support can feel like trying to solve a puzzle blindfolded. But once you get it sorted, it’s just another format ticked off the list. Fingers crossed this helps, mate.