143 votes
MANIFEST File - What is a .manifest file and how do I open it?
Learn about .MANIFEST files and view a list of programs that open them.
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Overview
What is a MANIFEST file? A MANIFEST file is an XML document that describes the manifest, or package contents, of a Windows software application. It is used by various Windows technologies for configuring and deploying software, including ClickOnce and the Common Language Runtime (CLR). MANIFEST files are often seen with the compound ".exe.manifest" file extension.
More Information MANIFEST files are typically only used by software developers. However, end users may also see MANIFEST files in temporary directories after opening ClickOnce applications from a link in a Web browser. You generally should not manually edit or delete these files, or the ClickOnce application may stop working. You can visit the Manifest File Schema page to view the XML schema for MANIFEST files. NOTE: MANIFEST files are often compiled into .CDF-MS files, which allow the underlying software to have faster access to the application parameters. Therefore, you may see CDF-MS files alongside your MANIFEST files.
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DeveloperValve
Popularity3.5 | 28 Votes
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.MANIFEST File Extension
2 file types use the .manifest file extension.
Windows Application Manifest File
| Developer | Microsoft |
| Popularity |
4.1 | 143 Votes |
What is a MANIFEST file?
A MANIFEST file is an XML document that describes the manifest, or package contents, of a Windows software application. It is used by various Windows technologies for configuring and deploying software, including ClickOnce and the Common Language Runtime (CLR). MANIFEST files are often seen with the compound ".exe.manifest" file extension.
More Information
MANIFEST files are typically only used by software developers. However, end users may also see MANIFEST files in temporary directories after opening ClickOnce applications from a link in a Web browser. You generally should not manually edit or delete these files, or the ClickOnce application may stop working.
You can visit the Manifest File Schema page to view the XML schema for MANIFEST files.
NOTE: MANIFEST files are often compiled into .CDF-MS files, which allow the underlying software to have faster access to the application parameters. Therefore, you may see CDF-MS files alongside your MANIFEST files.
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Programs that open MANIFEST files
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Program Name
Platform
Reset
X
Windows
Microsoft Visual Studio 2022
Free +
Microsoft ClickOnce
Free
Microsoft Notepad
Included with OS
Other text editor
Category: System Files
Updated: October 3, 2017
Steam Manifest File
| Developer | Valve |
| Popularity |
3.5 | 28 Votes |
File used by Valve Steam, a content delivery application used for downloading video games; related to .ACF files and used in the process of downloading and updating purchased games from the Steam online store.
Programs that open or reference MANIFEST files
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Program Name
Platform
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Windows
Valve Steam
Free +
Mac
Valve Steam
Free +
Category: Misc Files
Updated: October 3, 2011