What does .exe mean?

Any computer user is well aware of the term “Exe” files. By the abbreviation Exe, we mean execution or executable files. Just like Doc, PDF—exe is also a file extension code. But it is extremely important to understand its full meaning and purpose. 

While downloading .exe files, you must have noticed the warning sign asking you to confirm the action. Why? Because once the .exe file is installed and downloaded to your PC, this action can’t be reversed. Even if you uninstall that file from the Control Panel, that .exe file may have still caused unprecedented damage to your device and files. 

Files like install.exe or setup.exe or certain software.exe. are application files and you must take adequate precaution while opening such files. 

Risks and Dangers of opening .Exe files

Just by downloading and installing .exe files from an unreliable source can directly harm your PC. Even if an EXE file appears to be safe, they might run some harmful program in the background. Around 95% cases of virus and malware are infected into PCs using .exe files. 

The Best option is to simply avoid downloading any .exe files to your system at all. And if you ever need to download an executable file, make sure you download the same from the official website of OEM with HTTPS encryption on the URL bar. 

Opening EXE files on Windows—The Actual Process

All executable files can be automatically opened with a double click on the same. If an executable file comes inside a Zip folder, you have to unzip it first, extracting all key files into your desired location of the PC. 

Opening EXE files on Mac OS—The Actual Process

If an exe file is not opening on your MAC device, get an emulator for help. Emulator helps in opening and installing all kinds of Windows-compatible files on MAC devices. You can use Parallels Desktop, Apple Boot Camp, VMware Fusion and others are some of the popular Mac to Windows emulators available online. 

Conclusion:

If you have good proficiency in handling PC command prompt, you can easily download and install an executable file. Just go to Command Prompt and run it as an admin. Now, type cd path_name. Soon, you will reach the correct directory. Just type the file name.exe to execute the same pressing enter key.