XAP File Documentation

Overview

Feature Value
Extension .xap
Full Name Silverlight Application Package
MIME Type application/x-silverlight-app
Developed by Microsoft
Format Type Package
Container for Silverlight applications
Primary Association Web, Silverlight
File Structure ZIP archive format
Main Use Storing and deploying Silverlight applications
Content Type Executable code, resources for Silverlight apps
Compression Yes, ZIP compression
Encryption Possible within the package
Manifest File AppManifest.xaml
Entry Point Defined in manifest (AppManifest.xaml)
Supported Silverlight Version All versions till Silverlight 5
Deployment Web server, Windows Phone Marketplace
Platform Compatibility Windows, macOS (with appropriate Silverlight version installed)
Security Features Sandboxing, Code signing
DRM Support Yes, PlayReady DRM for protecting content
Accessibility Support for UI Automation to aid accessibility
Deployment Method Direct download, Streaming
Update Mechanism Manual update through replacement or incremental updates