How to open an XPS file

Open an XPS document in your browser or enable Microsoft’s optional XPS Viewer on Windows.

FormatPeek Editorial TeamTechnical details checked against the current viewerPublished September 10, 2026 · Updated September 10, 2026

Open XPS online

1. Open the free XPS viewer online and drop your XPS or OXPS file in.
2. Move between pages with the arrow controls.
3. Zoom in to inspect small text and graphics.

The file stays on your device during this process.

Enable XPS Viewer in Windows

Open Windows Settings, search for Optional features, choose to add a feature, then search for and install XPS Viewer. The exact labels can vary between Windows versions and managed company devices.

What is an XPS file?

XPS is Microsoft’s fixed-layout document format. Like PDF, it preserves page size and placement for viewing and printing. OXPS is the newer OpenXPS variation.

Why might a page look different?

XPS can include embedded fonts, complex vector brushes and print-specific features. A lightweight browser viewer may substitute fonts or omit unsupported effects; use Microsoft XPS Viewer when exact print fidelity is required.