I cannot open a XPI file. What should I do? Help!
Virtually anyone has encountered some problems with opening unknown files while working on a computer. It can be very frustrating. Yet such problems, not only with XPI files, can be addressed in a standard way. Follow the steps below and we can guarantee that your problem with opening XPI will be resolved!
XPI File Extension
- File type Mozilla Installer Package
- File developer Mozilla
- File category Plugin Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) XPI file?
Files with the XPI extension are installation files that let you attach various necessary plugins, extensions and themes to your browser. The XPI format was developed by Mozilla for the use of its applications: Firefox, Thunderbird and SeaMonkey.
How to open XPI file?
If given user account does not have necessary permissions to open files with XPI extension, it is highly probable that no program that supports given files is installed on the users’ system. Below is a list of actions user should pursue in order to resolve most common problems.
Step 1. Download and install application that supports XPI files
After the application has been installed, the system should automatically open XPI files with given application. Below is the list of relevant programs along with operating systems they are available for:
Programs that support XPI files
Step 2. Verify whether XPI files are associated with appropriate software
It is possible that an application that supports XPI files is not associated with such files. In such case, the program should by manually associated with XPI files (right-click on the file icon → Properties → General Tab → In submenu "Open with" and click on "Change" button. System will display a list of suggested programs that support XPI files. Choose the application by checking the box "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files". System will store this information in its registry and use it to open XPI files with the selected program.
Changing XPI file association in registry
File association for XPI files can be edited manually by editing appropriate entry in Windows System Registry. However, it is discouraged as it may introduce errors to registry if not done properly and may even damage the system.
Step 3. Check XPI file for other errors
- XPI file was not copied properly from storage medium.
- Antivirus application prevents opening XPI files. In that case it is recommended to exercise extreme caution and recover or delete infected XPI file. It is also advised to scan the entire system for malicious software and viruses with antivirus software.
- For XPI files downloaded from the internet it is advised to check if the file has been downloaded completely and is not corrupted. If not, the file should be re-downloaded.
