What is a .MSIX file?
A .MSIX file is a type of file used on computers to install applications specifically on Windows 10, starting from its version 1809, and on newer versions of Windows. This file is like a box that contains all the necessary pieces to set up a software program on your computer. It is compressed using Zip format, which means it's made smaller so it's easier and faster to download and handle.
Inside an MSIX file, you will find the application's data files, which are the core components of the software, and .XML configuration files. These XML files are important because they contain instructions on how the application should be installed and set up on your computer.
The MSIX file format builds upon earlier technologies used for installing applications, such as .MSI (used for Windows Installer packages), .APPX (used for Windows Store apps), ClickOnce (used for web-based deployment), and App-V (used for virtual applications). This means it combines many of the best features from these formats to provide a more reliable and streamlined installation process.
To open an MSIX file and install the application it contains, you can use a program called Microsoft App Installer. This program is part of Windows 10 and later versions, so if you have one of these operating systems, you should already have the necessary tool to open and use MSIX files. Simply double-clicking the MSIX file should launch Microsoft App Installer and begin the installation process.
Verification
Our goal is to help people find the most up-to-date information about file extensions for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS. We researched over 10,000 file extensions and their respective programs that open those files. If you want to suggest edits or updates about .MSIX file formats, example files, or programs that are compatible. Please contact us.