An EXE file basically consists of an executable file that contains a coded sequence of instructions that the operating system can execute directly, from the moment the user opens it. Although it is true that the most common executable files usually have an EXE extension, the reality is that there are hundreds of executable file formats, such as BAT, CMD, INF, PIF, RUN, WSH or COM.
They are recognized by Windows users, basically because it is characterized as one of the most popular operating systems that uses and executes this type of file. But they are also executable files that are used in other OS, such as ReactSO, OpenVMS or MS-DOS itself.
As we can see, macOS (the operating system developed by Apple for its laptops and desktops) is not among them. Which can make us ask ourselves a question, especially if at one point we were used to working with the Windows environment, and now we have switched to using macOS: in what way could we open an EXE file on a Mac?
Before trying to open an EXE file on Mac
Since files with an EXE extension have not been specifically developed for use in macOS, it is normal that whenever we try to open and run one, the operating system is simply not able to recognize it.
In this sense, when we want to use a program on Mac that is only available as an EXE program or installer, the best we can do is check if there is a specific version developed for installation on macOS . This is what happens, for example, with many popular programs that have different versions for different operating systems, so that we will always find a version developed for Windows and another for macOS.
Opening an EXE file on macOS (Mac)
If we cannot find a version of this program developed for Mac, another popular option is to run Windows from macOS , using an individual partition of the hard drive where to install this Microsoft operating system. Or, use what is known as an emulator or virtual machine , which consists of a type of program that emulates a Windows PC and allows EXE programs based on this operating system to be installed, but without the need for a specific partition on the hard drive.
As we have already mentioned at different times, Parallels Desktop has become one of the most popular emulators in recent years, although it is characterized by being a paid option.
There are also other useful and free options, as with WineBottler , although this time you don’t need emulators or virtual machines.
