What is a .EXE file?
A .EXE file, short for "Windows Executable File," is a type of computer file that runs programs on Microsoft Windows operating systems. When you double-click an EXE file, it executes a program. Common examples include notepad.exe, which opens the Notepad application, and msedge.exe, which launches the Microsoft Edge browser.
EXE files can serve different purposes. Some EXE files are straightforward applications that start running immediately upon being opened. Others might be installers, which, when executed, begin the process of installing a software program on your computer. For instance, a file named setup.exe typically indicates that it's an installer.
These files are compiled into a binary format, also known as machine code, which is the language that the computer's processor understands directly. Besides the executable code, EXE files can contain additional resources like icons and graphical assets used by the application's graphical user interface (GUI).
It's important to be cautious with EXE files, especially those downloaded from the internet, as they can also contain harmful software, like viruses or malware, which can damage your computer or compromise your privacy.
Various programs can open EXE files, primarily on Windows systems. However, other software and platforms can run EXE files through emulation or compatibility layers. Some of these include: - **Microsoft Windows**: The primary platform for running EXE files. - **CodeWeavers CrossOver**: Allows running Windows applications on Mac and Linux. - **Oracle VM VirtualBox with Microsoft Windows installed**: A virtual machine environment that can run Windows on other operating systems. - **Wine and WineBottler**: Software that enables Windows applications to run on macOS and Linux. - **Xamarin Mono**: A platform used for running .NET applications across operating systems. - **VMware Fusion and Parallels Desktop for Mac with Microsoft Windows installed**: These tools allow Mac users to run Windows and its applications seamlessly. - **7-Zip and RARLAB WinRAR**: While primarily known as file archivers, these programs can also interact with EXE files, such as extracting their contents. - **Turing Software UTM**: Enables running Windows on iOS and Android through virtual machines.
In contrast to EXE files, MSI files are another type of installer file used on Windows. MSI files are always used for installation purposes and are handled by Windows Installer, a service built into the operating system designed specifically for installing, maintaining, and removing software.
Understanding the difference between these file
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 .EXE file formats, example files, or programs that are compatible. Please contact us.