How to Install XPS Viewer in Windows 10 and 11

XPS Viewer is not included by default in the latest versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11, but some users still need it to view .xps documents. If you try to open an XPS file without it, Windows will prompt you to find an app in the Microsoft Store, but you won't find XPS Viewer there. Instead, you need to add it as an optional Windows feature. This guide explains exactly how to install XPS Viewer on Windows 10 and 11, covers common problems, and gives tips for using it effectively.

What Is XPS Viewer and When Do You Need It?

XPS Viewer is a simple Microsoft app designed to open and view files in the XPS format (.xps). XPS, which stands for XML Paper Specification, is a document format developed by Microsoft as an alternative to PDF. While XPS never matched PDF's popularity, some business and government workflows or old applications still use XPS files.

If you receive an XPS document, need to access legacy records, or work with software that still creates XPS files, you'll need XPS Viewer. Without it, Windows won't open .xps files natively. If you double-click an XPS file and see a prompt that no suitable app is installed, that's your cue to add XPS Viewer.

Checking if XPS Viewer Is Already Installed

Before trying to install XPS Viewer, it's worth checking if it's already present. In earlier Windows 10 versions (prior to 1803), XPS Viewer was installed by default. On newer systems and all Windows 11 devices, it's typically missing unless you added it yourself.

To check, click the Start menu and type "XPS Viewer" in the search bar. If it appears in the results, you can open it directly. If not, or if nothing happens upon launch, proceed with installation. Trying to open any .xps file by double-clicking may also prompt you with installation suggestions, but the fastest way to confirm is via the search bar.

How to Install XPS Viewer in Windows 10

On Windows 10 (version 1803 and later), XPS Viewer is an optional feature. Here’s how to add it:

1. Open Settings (press Win + I).
2. Go to Apps > Optional Features.
3. Click Add a feature at the top of the page.
4. In the search box, type "XPS Viewer".
5. Check the box next to XPS Viewer and click Install.

Wait for the installation to finish. When it’s done, you can find XPS Viewer in the Start menu. If you don’t see the app listed, restart your PC. If the Add a feature list doesn’t load, make sure you’re connected to the Internet and try again, or see troubleshooting tips below.

How to Install XPS Viewer in Windows 11

The process is almost identical on Windows 11, but the Settings layout is slightly different:

1. Open Settings (press Win + I).
2. Click Apps in the left sidebar.
3. Choose Optional features.
4. Click View features next to Add an optional feature.
5. Type "XPS Viewer" in the search box.
6. Check XPS Viewer and select Next, then Install.

The feature will download and install in the background. Once finished, you'll find XPS Viewer in your Start menu. If you have issues, see the troubleshooting section below.

Troubleshooting XPS Viewer Installation Problems

Sometimes, the Add a feature window might show an error, fail to load features, or the install might not complete. Here’s how to resolve common issues:

• Internet Connection: The feature list is downloaded from Microsoft’s servers. Make sure you have a working Internet connection before trying again.
• Windows Update: If your system is behind on updates, some features may not appear. Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and install any pending updates.
• Corrupted System Files: Run sfc /scannow in an elevated Command Prompt to fix possible file corruption that might block installation.
• Group Policy or Admin Restrictions: On work or school devices, adding features could be disabled by administrators. In this case, contact your IT support team.

As a last resort, you can use PowerShell to add XPS Viewer. Open PowerShell as admin and enter: Add-WindowsCapability -Online -Name XPS.Viewer~~~~0.0.1.0. If it still fails, review the error message for more details or reset Windows feature servicing with dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth.

Opening and Using XPS Files After Installation

Once XPS Viewer is installed, you can open .xps files in several ways. Double-click any .xps file, and it should now launch in XPS Viewer. Alternatively, right-click the file, select Open with, and choose XPS Viewer. You can also launch XPS Viewer from the Start menu and use its File > Open dialog to browse for XPS files.

XPS Viewer offers basic viewing features. You can navigate pages, zoom in and out, search for text, and print the document. However, you cannot edit the contents or save to other formats directly. If you need to convert XPS to PDF, you can print to the "Microsoft Print to PDF" virtual printer from within XPS Viewer.

Alternatives to XPS Viewer

If XPS Viewer doesn't meet your needs, or if you're having persistent trouble installing it, there are a few alternatives. Several third-party applications can open XPS files, including STDU Viewer, SumatraPDF, and MuPDF, though not all features may work perfectly. Some online conversion tools let you upload an XPS file and download it as a PDF, making it easier to view and share.

For organizations handling large numbers of XPS documents, consider converting to PDF as a long-term solution. PDF has broader support across all modern platforms. Remember that some advanced or password-protected XPS documents may not convert cleanly, so always test before switching formats.

Frequently asked questions