File Extension Library


.EXE File Extension

  • Developer by: Microsoft
  • Category: Executable Files
  • Format: Binary

What are .EXE files and how to open them?

Can't open .EXE file? Are you wondering what it contains? On our site we will explain to you what this file is, what it is used for and what software opens the .EXE file.

What is a .EXE file extension?

.EXE file extension is created by Microsoft. .EXE has been classified as Executable Files. The format of .EXE file is Binary.

.EXE is Windows Executable File

An EXE file contains an executable program for Windows. EXE is short for "executable," and it is the standard file extension used by Windows programs. For many Windows users, EXE files are synonymous with Windows programs, making ".exe" one of the most recognizable file extensions.

EXE files contain binary machine code that has been compiled from source code. The machine code is saved in such a way that it can be executed directly by the computer's CPU, thereby "running" the program. EXE files may also contain resources, such as graphics assets for the GUI, the program's icon, and other resources needed by the program.

On non-Windows platforms, such as macOS and Linux, EXE files are not used for executables. macOS, for example, uses .APP files to run apps. However, if you would like to run an EXE file on a non-Windows platform, you can use a virtual machine, such as Parallels Desktop or VM VirtualBox, which allows Windows to be run within a non-Windows environment.

Common EXE Filenames

Setup.exe - A very common name for software program installers. When opened, it starts the installation process.

Install.exe - Another popular name for software installers.

cmd.exe - The shell program used by Windows 2000 and later, replacing the COMMAND.COM shell.

List of all softwares that can open the Windows Executable File
Windows
Microsoft Windows
7-Zip
WinRAR 5
Mac
Parallels Desktop for Mac with Microsoft Windows installed
VMware Fusion with Microsoft Windows installed
Oracle VM VirtualBox with Microsoft Windows installed
CodeWeavers CrossOver
Kronenberg WineBottler
Xamarin Mono
Linux
CodeWeavers CrossOver
Oracle VM VirtualBox with Microsoft Windows installed
Wine
Xamarin Mono
File Type 2 PortableApps.com Application
Developer by: Rare Ideas Category: Executable Files Format: Binary

Computer program that can run from a portable device such as a USB flash drive, iPod, or portable hard drive; contains user settings on the portable device, allowing the program to run the same on multiple computers.

Portable apps use the compound file extension .PAF.EXE.

List of all softwares that can open the PortableApps.com Application
Windows
Rare Ideas PortableApps.com Platform

How to fix problems with .EXE files

  1. You need to update the application that you normally use to open .EXE files. Only the latest version of the software supports the current .EXE file format
  2. You need to check the .EXE file for viruses. To do this, you need to scan it with a popular antivirus (Norton, Nod32, Kaspersky, Dr.Web, etc.)