Overview
XPS is Microsoft’s fixed-layout document format, similar to PDF. Recent Windows versions no longer include the XPS Viewer by default, so opening .xps files requires installing it as an optional feature. This guide shows how.
Key Takeaways
- XPS Viewer is available as an optional Windows feature.
- You install it from Settings under Optional features.
- It also handles the newer OXPS format.
- An internet connection is normally needed to download the feature.
Install From Optional Features
1. Open Settings and go to Apps > Optional features.
2. Click Add an optional feature (or View features).
3. Search for XPS Viewer in the list.
4. Select it and click Install, then wait for it to finish.
Verify and Open XPS Files
1. Search the Start menu for XPS Viewer to confirm it installed.
2. Double-click any .xps or .oxps file to open it.
3. If it opens in another app, right-click the file and choose Open with > XPS Viewer.
Tip: If you rarely use XPS files, you can also convert them to PDF using the Microsoft Print to PDF printer from within the viewer.
Troubleshooting
Problem: XPS Viewer does not appear in Optional features.
Solution: Ensure Windows is up to date; on some managed devices the feature list is restricted by policy.
Problem: The installation fails to download.
Solution: Check your internet connection or configure an offline source, as optional features are fetched from Windows Update.
Problem: XPS files still open in the wrong app.
Solution: Set XPS Viewer as the default handler under Settings > Apps > Default apps.
Problem: The viewer is missing after a feature update.
Solution: Reinstall it from Optional features, since major updates can remove previously added features.
Conclusion
Installing the XPS Viewer as an optional feature restores easy access to XPS and OXPS documents. Once added, the files open with a double-click just as they used to.
About TechHub
This guide is part of the TechHub Knowledge Base. For more step-by-step IT guides and support, visit techhub.com.lk.
