Types of EXE Files

Main EXE Affiliation

.EXE

File Format:	.exe
Type:	Windows Executable File

An EXE fileis the standard file extension used by Windows programs, so it is considered one of the most recognizable file extensions. In addition to executable code, EXE files can also contain various other data, such as program icons.

Author:	Microsoft Corporation
Class:	Executable Files
Registry Key:	HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.exe

Software Programs That Open The Windows Executable File:

7-Zip by Igor Pavlov

Windows

Android

Linux

WinRAR by Eugene Roshal

Windows

Mac

Android

Linux

Oracle VM VirtualBox by Oracle Corporation

Windows

Mac

Linux

VMware Fusion by VMware

Mac

Microsoft Windows by Microsoft Corporation

Windows

Parallels Desktop for Mac by Parallels

Mac

CrossOver by Codeweavers

Mac

Linux

Alternative EXE Types

.EXE

File Format:	.exe
Type:	PortableApps.com Application

An EXE contains user settings on the portable device, which allow the program to run on multiple computers.

Author:	Open Source
Class:	Executable Files

Software Programs That Open PortableApps.com Application Files:

PortableApps.com Platform by Open Source

Compatible with:

Windows

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Troubleshoot EXE Files

Typical EXE Opening Challenges

7-Zip Isn't There

You encounter an error message such as "%%os%% Can't Open EXE Files" when trying to open your EXE. When this happens, it is commonly due to 7-Zip missing in %%os%%. Your operating system cannot associate your EXE with 7-Zip, so double-clicking the file won't work.

Tip: If you know of another program that can open your EXE file, you can try opening it by selecting the application from the programs listed.

Incorrect 7-Zip Version

It is possible that your version of 7-Zip isn't able to open your Windows Executable File file due to incompatibility. You will need to download a newer version of 7-Zip if you don't have the right version. This problem is predominately due to having a Windows Executable File file version that was created by a newer version of 7-Zip than what you have installed on your PC.

Tip: If you right-click on your EXE file, then select "Properties" (Windows) or "Get Info" (Mac), you can obtain hints about what version you need.

Summary: Not having the right 7-Zip version on your computer can cause problems opening EXE files.

Associated Difficulties Loading EXE Files

Errors opening Windows Executable File files can still occur even with the latest 7-Zip software installed on your computer. If you're still experiencing problems opening EXE files, there could be other computer problems. Additional factors include:

• EXE file references in the Windows Registry are broken
• Deletion of the EXE file description from the Registry by mistake
• 7-Zip or another EXE application experienced a flawed installation
• Something has caused file corruption of your EXE
• Your EXE has adversely impacted by malware
• Device drivers of the hardware associated with your EXE file are corrupt or out-of-date
• Windows cannot load your Windows Executable File file due to insufficient resources (eg. RAM)