| File Type 1 |
Windows Executable File (Most common) |
| File Format |
File |
| Common? |
No |
| File Description |
DOS or Windows executable program or self-extracting archive; runs when opened; any Windows file that ends in ".exe" should run when double-clicked; "SETUP.EXE" and "INSTALL.EXE" are common installer files included with Windows software; double-clicking them should begin the installation process.
EXE files will not run in Mac OS X, but can be run using emulation software, such as Parallels Desktop for Intel-based Macs; Darwine may also open some Windows programs. |
| Program(s) that open exe files |
Mac: Parallels Desktop with Windows installed; Darwine
Windows: Runs itself
Unix: Wine; Cedega |
| File Type 2 |
PortableApps.com Application |
| File Format |
Proprietary File |
| Common? |
No |
| File Description |
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. |
| Program(s) that open exe files |
Windows: Rare Ideas PortableApps.com software |
|
