XPS (XML Paper Specification) files are Microsoft’s document format designed to preserve layout, formatting, and print quality—similar to PDF files. While Windows used to open XPS files by default, Windows 11 no longer enables XPS viewing out of the box, which can leave users confused when they double-click an .xps file and nothing happens.
If you’re trying to open XPS files on Windows 11 and aren’t sure what to do, don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll show you all the reliable ways to open XPS files on Windows 11, including enabling the built-in viewer and using alternative methods.
How to Open XPS Files on Windows 11
Below are the best methods to open XPS documents. Start with the first one, as it uses Microsoft’s built-in solution.
1. Install XPS Viewer on Windows 11 (Recommended)
Windows 11 includes XPS Viewer as an optional feature, but it is not installed by default.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings
- Go to Apps
- Click Optional features
- Select View features
- Search for XPS Viewer
- Check the box and click Next
- Click Install
- Wait for the installation to complete
Once installed, Windows 11 can open XPS files normally.
2. Open XPS Files Using XPS Viewer
After installing XPS Viewer, you can open XPS documents easily.
- Right-click the
.xpsfile - Select Open with
- Choose XPS Viewer
- Click OK
You can also:
- Double-click the XPS file
- Or open XPS Viewer from the Start menu and browse for the file
XPS Viewer allows you to zoom, search text, print, and navigate pages.
3. Set XPS Viewer as the Default App for XPS Files
To avoid selecting the app every time, you can set XPS Viewer as the default.
- Right-click an XPS file
- Select Open with > Choose another app
- Choose XPS Viewer
- Check Always use this app to open .xps files
- Click OK
From now on, XPS files will open automatically with XPS Viewer.
4. Convert XPS Files to PDF (Alternative Method)
If you don’t want to use XPS Viewer, converting XPS files to PDF is another good option.
How this helps:
- PDF is more widely supported
- Easier sharing and compatibility
- Opens in most browsers and PDF readers
Ways to convert:
- Use Microsoft Print to PDF
- Upload the XPS file to a trusted online converter
- Use document conversion software
After conversion, open the PDF like any normal document.
5. Use Microsoft Edge (Limited Support)
In some cases, Microsoft Edge can open XPS files.
- Right-click the XPS file
- Select Open with
- Choose Microsoft Edge
Note: Edge support for XPS files may vary by version and may not work reliably for all documents.
6. Open XPS Files Using Third-Party Document Viewers
Several document viewer applications support XPS files.
- Only download viewers from trusted sources
- Avoid bundled installers
- Check if the app supports text search and printing
For most users, the built-in XPS Viewer is still the safest and simplest option.
Wrapping Up
With that, we wrap up our complete guide on how to open XPS files on Windows 11. While Windows 11 no longer enables XPS support by default, Microsoft still provides XPS Viewer as an optional feature, making it easy to view, print, and manage XPS documents.
By installing XPS Viewer, setting it as the default app, or converting XPS files to PDF, you can access XPS documents without any hassle.
