.WXS File Extension

What is a .WXS file?

A .WXS file is a type of document used by people who create installation programs for Windows computers. It is made with a tool called the Windows Installer XML (WiX) toolset. Think of it as a recipe that tells the computer how to install a program. This file is written in a special computer language called XML, which is used to organize and store information in a way that both computers and humans can understand.

The .WXS file has a main part called the element. You can think of it as the cover of a book that holds everything together. Inside this "book," there are different sections for different tasks, like creating updates for the software (PatchCreation), putting together a bundle of software (Bundle), making modules (.MSM files), patches (.MSP files), or the main product itself (.MSI files). There's also a part called Fragment, which helps organize the information needed to install the software.

However, there are some rules. You can only have one of each section for PatchCreation, Product, Module, or Patch in each .WXS file. If you try to add more, it's like trying to put too many keys into one lock – it won't work. But you can have as many Fragments as you like, kind of like adding as many chapters as you want to your book.

To make a .WXS file work, it needs to be written in the correct WiX language, or it won't turn into a working installer. After writing your .WXS file, you use a tool from the WiX Toolset called Candle to turn it into a .WIXOBJ file. This is a step toward making the final installer that people use to install the software on their Windows computer.

If you want to open and work with a .WXS file, you need to use the WiX Toolset. This is a special program for people who are making installers for Windows software. It's like having a specific kind of pen to write on a certain type of paper – you need the right tool for the job.

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 .WXS file formats, example files, or programs that are compatible. Please contact us.

More extensions