How to Enable XPS Document Writer in Windows 11

The Microsoft XPS Document Writer is a built-in virtual printer in Windows that allows users to create and save .xps or .oxps files from any application capable of printing. While Windows 11 includes this functionality, the feature is often disabled by default or removed from the active printers list. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions to enable and install the Microsoft XPS Document Writer on Windows 11 using Windows Optional Features, the Settings app, and Windows PowerShell.

Method 1: Turn on the Feature via Windows Features

The quickest way to activate the XPS printing components is through the Windows Optional Features dialogue.

  1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialogue box.
  2. Type optionalfeatures and press Enter.
  3. In the Windows Features window, scroll down the list and locate Microsoft XPS Document Writer.
  4. Check the box next to Microsoft XPS Document Writer.
  5. (Optional) Check the box next to Microsoft XPS Viewer if you also need to open and view XPS files.
  6. Click OK. Windows will download and apply the necessary files.
  7. Click Close once the process is complete.

Method 2: Add the Printer Manually via Settings

If the feature is enabled but the printer does not appear in your print menu, you can add it manually using Windows Settings.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows Key + I.
  2. Navigate to Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
  3. Click the Add device button.
  4. Wait a few seconds until the option The printer that I want isn’t listed appears, then click Add manually.
  5. Select Add a local printer or network printer with manual settings and click Next.
  6. Select Use an existing port, choose PORTPROMPT: (Local Port) from the drop-down menu, and click Next.
  7. In the Manufacturer list on the left, select Microsoft.
  8. In the Printers list on the right, select Microsoft XPS Document Writer v4 (or standard version).
  9. Click Next, choose whether to keep the current driver or replace it, name the printer, and click Next to complete the installation.

Method 3: Enable Using Windows PowerShell

For advanced users or system administrators, the feature can be enabled instantly via an elevated command prompt or PowerShell.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Terminal (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Enter the following command and press Enter:
Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName "Printing-XPSServices-Features" -All
  1. If you also want to enable the XPS Viewer, run:
Add-WindowsCapability -Online -Name "XPS.Viewer~~~~0.0.1.0"
  1. Close the PowerShell window once the operation shows a successful status. The Microsoft XPS Document Writer will now be available in your printer list.