Opening an XPS file in Windows 11 isn’t as straightforward as it used to be in older versions, mainly because Microsoft kinda dropped the ball and didn’t include XPS Viewer by default. If you’re like me, you might go searching in Settings, only to find that the app isn’t installed yet. That’s the first hurdle.
So, here’s how it’s worked on several setups: you need to manually add XPS Viewer via Optional Features. It’s not complicated, but definitely a little annoying because Windows 11 keeps hiding things behind menus that aren’t obvious at first.
Once installed, opening your XPS files is just like opening any other document—right-click, pick “Open with,” and choose XPS Viewer. Easy enough, but on some machines, this step feels kinda finicky—sometimes it needs a reboot or a cache flush to see the app appear in the list.
Here’s what you wanna do step by step:
Method 1: Install XPS Viewer from Optional Features
- Go to Settings > Apps > Optional features
- Click on Add a feature — it’s that tiny button at the top
- Search for
XPS Viewer— don’t just assume it’s there, some builds hide it or it’s labeled oddly (“XPS Viewer” vs. “Windows XPS Viewer”) - Check the box and hit Install
- After some waiting, it should get added. Sometimes you’ve gotta restart your PC to make sure it registers properly
Why does this work? Because Windows 11’s default setup no longer includes the viewer, probably to force users into PDF territory — because of course, Windows has to make it harder than necessary. Installing it manually ensures you can open those XPS files without fuss.
Method 2: Open the XPS File
- Use File Explorer — launch it with Windows + E
- Find your XPS file somewhere in your folder structure
- Right-click on the file, select Open with, then choose XPS Viewer
- If XPS Viewer doesn’t show up, double-check you installed it earlier and maybe restart your machine
On some setups, the “Open with” dialog doesn’t immediately list the XPS Viewer. In that case, you might need to choose Choose another app and browse to the installation directory — usually somewhere like C:\Program Files\XPSViewer. Not pretty, but it gets the job done.
Final tip: Set XPS Viewer as default
If you regularly open XPS files, saving yourself some clicks helps. Right-click an XPS file, pick 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 launch it directly, no hassle.
Just a heads-up — multiple times, on different setups, I’ve noticed that sometimes apps don’t register immediately, or you need to manually set defaults. Windows 11 likes to throw curveballs, so don’t be surprised if things feel a bit sluggish at first.
Tips for Making It Easier
- Ensure your Windows 11 is fully up to date—some updates fix these weird feature issues.
- If you can’t find XPS Viewer in optional features, check on Microsoft’s official site if there’s a standalone package or a specific update you’re missing.
- Consider converting smaller or less important XPS files to PDFs — you can do it with online tools or some third-party apps just in case native support keeps acting up.
- Look into third-party viewers if you need more features; some free tools do the job better than native options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What even *is* an XPS file?
It’s basically a PDF alternative, based on XML. It’s used by some old printers, or for document sharing where fixed layouts matter. Basically, a document that you wanna keep exactly as it was formatted.
Why is Windows 11 so stubborn about it?
Because Microsoft’s decided to not include it by default anymore, probably to push PDF usage. The XPS format feels kinda dead-end, so they make you toil just to view one. Classic Microsoft move.
Can I convert XPS to PDF?
Yes, plenty of online tools or apps can do that. Just upload, convert, and download — easy enough, but be wary of online security if your documents are sensitive.
Is there a better app than XPS Viewer?
Lots of third-party document viewers open XPS files. Adobe Acrobat can open it if you have the right plugin, or there are dedicated free viewers online. Sometimes, they’re quicker and offer better navigation.
What if I want to get rid of XPS Viewer?
Head back to Settings > Apps > Optional features. Find XPS Viewer, click Uninstall. It’s a simple cleanup step if you decide you don’t need it anymore.
Summary
- Install XPS Viewer via Optional Features
- Locate your XPS file in File Explorer
- Right-click & open with XPS Viewer
- View, print, or interact with the file
- Set it as default if it’s your go-to
Hopefully this shaves off a few hours for someone. Because, honestly, dealing with Windows’ weird file support feels like trying to solve a puzzle while blindfolded. But once you get it set up, it’s just another file format checked off the list. Fingers crossed this helps.