.application — Microsoft Application Virtualization Package
Microsoft · 2007
A .application file is a manifest for streaming and virtually running applications using Microsoft's App-V technology, rather than a standalone executable.
Key Features
- Allows applications to be streamed and run virtually.
- Reduces traditional installation requirements.
- Simplifies software deployment and management.
- Provides application isolation to prevent conflicts.
Best For
- Streamed application delivery in managed corporate environments.
- Deploying and managing large suites of software.
- Ensuring application compatibility and reducing conflicts.
- Providing on-demand access to applications.
Less Ideal For
- Running individual, locally installed applications on a personal computer.
- Distributing software to general consumers directly.
- Applications that require deep integration with the operating system at a native level.
- Offline use of applications where network streaming is not feasible.
Common Use Cases
- Large enterprises deploying standardized software across many workstations.
- IT administrators managing software updates and rollbacks efficiently.
- Environments where applications need to be accessed on-demand without full installation.
- Reducing desktop configuration complexity and ensuring application compatibility.
How to Open It
- These files are typically opened automatically by the Microsoft Application Virtualization Client installed on a Windows computer.
- End-users usually click a link or shortcut provided by their IT department.
- Opening a .application file directly without the App-V client will result in an error or inability to launch.
- IT professionals would use tools like Microsoft Application Virtualization Sequencer to create and manage these packages.
What is a .application file?
A .application file is a manifest file used by Microsoft's Application Virtualization (App-V) technology. It doesn't contain the application's actual code or data, but rather instructions on how to stream and run it virtually. Think of it as a recipe that tells your computer how to assemble and launch an application without fully installing it in the traditional sense. This allows for easier deployment and management of software across networks. The actual application files are streamed from a server when needed.
Programs That Open .application Files
| Platform | Program | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows | Microsoft Application Virtualization Client | Paid | Official |
Common Problems with .application Files
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a manifest file that tells a virtualization client how to stream and run an application, rather than being the application itself.
You don't install software in the traditional sense; the .application file enables the Microsoft App-V client to stream and run the application virtually without a full local installation.
They are created and managed by IT administrators using Microsoft's Application Virtualization tools within an organization.
Technical Details
The .application file is an XML-based manifest that describes the application's package, including its name, version, and the location of the core application files (often packaged as .sft files). It's designed to work with the Microsoft Application Virtualization Client, which interprets the manifest and streams the necessary components to run the application in an isolated virtual environment.