Open XBAP File

XBAP (XAML Browser Application) is a file format developed by Microsoft for the Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) technology. This file extension .xbap is used for the Windows application files that are executed in a web browser. These files can be utilized from an internet browser, using the .NET Framework 3.0, to run an application without needing to install it.

You can find more details on the official Microsoft documentation page here.

How to Open XBAP Files

Typically, to run such applications, all you need to do is simply use your web browser. For instance, Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge browsers allow you to open and run XBAP files directly. Simply double-click on the file, and if file association settings are correctly configured, the application will run directly in your browser.

Using XBAP Files in a Development Environment

For developers, leveraging XBAP files can be incredibly useful. These files are built with the same WPF technology that developers use to build standalone desktop applications. They can be developed, debugged, and packed directly using Visual Studio IDE.

You can find how to use XBAP files in the Visual Studio environment by visiting this official Microsoft guide here.

XBAP File Important Information

While working with XBAP files, it's important to keep in mind that the limited permissions granted to these applications by default. They do not have direct access to your file system for security reasons. However, they can still be utilized for a wide variety of applications such as providing interactive and rich UI to web applications.

A limitation to note is that you should use .xbap files wisely, as they may not be supported in all browser types. Even though XBAP files provide a smooth experience for application users, they are somewhat limited in major browsers other than Microsoft's.

For more details, you can also check the Microsoft documentation for XBAP files here

How to open XBAP files

Typical XBAP application file locations:

  • C:\Windows\SysWOW64\PresentationHost.exe "%1" %*
  • "C:\Windows\System32\PresentationHost.exe" "%1" %*

Typical XBAP mime types:

  • application/x-ms-xbap

Frequently associated Windows objects:

  • Windows.Xbap

Related extensions