Here’s a comprehensive guide to CAB files on Windows, encompassing their utilization.
Numerous methods exist for obtaining driver and Windows updates, and one of these methods involves accessing the Microsoft Update Catalog. The files sourced from the Microsoft Update Catalog typically come with a .CAB file extension. Microsoft opts for these files because they employ lossless compression, ensuring that the original files remain unaltered during compression.
However, you might be wondering about the specifics of a Windows CAB file and the steps to install it on your computer. This article provides you with all the essential information you need.
What Constitutes a Windows CAB File?
A CAB file, also known as a Cabinet file, is a prevalent archive file format primarily employed by Microsoft. It serves as a container for the compressed versions of various files, folders, and even other cabinet files. Microsoft utilizes these files for disseminating Windows operating systems, drivers, and updates for Universal Windows Platform (UWP) applications. Nevertheless, CAB files are versatile and can be used for storing various types of data, including images, videos, and documents.
CAB files are compressed using the Microsoft Cabinets Compression Format (MCF), ensuring that they can be decompressed without data loss. Additionally, they can be signed with digital certificates, maintaining the file’s authenticity and integrity.
Identifiable by the first four bytes composed of the ASCII characters “MSCF,” CAB files can accommodate up to 65,535 folders, with each folder capable of holding a maximum of 65,535 files.
Now that you have a concise understanding of CAB files, let’s delve into the process of installing them on Windows 11.
Installing a CAB File on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide
You can effortlessly install a CAB file on Windows 11 using either the Command Prompt or Windows PowerShell. The Command Prompt method involves utilizing the DISM command, while the PowerShell method employs the Add-WindowsPackage command.
Here’s the procedure for installing a CAB file via Command Prompt:
1. Locate the CAB file on your computer.
2. Right-click the CAB file and select “Copy as path.”
3. Press the Windows key to open the Start Menu, then type “Command Prompt” in the search bar. Choose “Run as administrator” from the right pane.
4. In the elevated Command Prompt window, input the following command and press Enter. Ensure to replace “CAB location” with the path you copied:
Once the installation finishes, restart your computer to apply the changes.
If you prefer to install a CAB file using Windows PowerShell, adhere to these steps:
1. Open the Start Menu, type “Windows PowerShell,” and select “Run as administrator” from the right pane.
2. Input the following command and press Enter. Be sure to replace “CAB location” with the copied path.
That concludes the process. PowerShell will proceed to install the contents of the CAB file onto your computer.
How to Install Driver Updates Using a CAB File
If you’ve acquired a driver update in the form of a CAB file, you can install it by following these steps:
1. Double-click the CAB file to access its contents.
2. Press Ctrl + A to select all the files, right-click, and select “Extract.”
3. Select the destination where you wish to extract the CAB file contents, then click on “Extract.”
4. Utilize the Win + X keyboard shortcut to open the Power User menu, and from there, select “Device Manager.”
5. Right-click on the specific device for which you’ve obtained the driver update and opt for “Update driver.”
6. Choose “Browse my computer for drivers.”
7. Click “Browse” and navigate to the directory where you’ve unzipped the CAB file.
8. Choose the folder that holds the extracted files and click “OK.”
9. Click “Next.”
The Device Manager will proceed to install the driver update on your computer.
CAB Files: A Comprehensive Guide
Encountering a CAB file may leave you curious about its purpose and installation process. After going through the explanation above, it is expected that you have gained a fundamental grasp of CAB files. Furthermore, you are now acquainted with the procedure for installing driver updates packaged as CAB files.