MPX File Extension

MPX file icon

Microsoft Project Exchange Format

What is a MPX file?

Microsoft Project Exchange Format, identified by the MPX extension, is a Document Files type and includes 969 files.

The Microsoft Project Exchange Format (MPX) was created by Microsoft, a company that developed file format and produced 242 programs for their use.

MPX files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Linux and Mac OS. If you need to open a MPX file, you can use one of 8 programs, such as Microsoft Project, MOOS Project Viewer and Project Viewer.

MIME types

  • application/x-project

How to open a MPX file?

If you’re having difficulty opening a MPX file, it is often due to not having the correct software. To solve the problem, choose a compatible program from the list. Then follow the link to the official developer site, download the software, and install it on your device.

Microsoft Project, MOOS Project Viewer and Project Viewer are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with MPX files. To install the most up-to-date edition of Microsoft Project, visit the official Microsoft website. You can download the build that works across all operating systems.

After successful installation, your operating system should seamlessly handle MPX files via Microsoft Project.

Set Microsoft Project as your default MPX viewer

Setting a default program by file type in Windows

  1. Right-click your MPX file, then navigate to the "Open With" option and click "Choose Another Application" to continue;
  2. From the list of applications in the pop-up window, find and select Microsoft Project as your desired application;
  3. Check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to set your chosen app as the default for opening MPX files.

Set default app to open files on Mac

  1. Right-click or Control + left-click on the desired MPX file to open a menu of available actions;
  2. Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
  3. Go to the lower section of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. By default, it is set to "Recommended Programs";
  4. Select "All Programs" from this menu and proceed to search for Microsoft Project. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default option.

How to edit a MPX file?

Editing MPX files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit document files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated Microsoft Project Exchange Format programs.

List of Top MPX editors 2026

With the mentioned criteria in mind, we have assembled a selection of MPX editors.

MPX Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
Microsoft ProjectMicrosoftWindows4.8 out of 5 (38 reviews)

Convert to and from MPX

When a MPX file is not easy to work with, converting it to formats like MPP or other comparable types may help.

Converting a MPX file may not fully retain all functionality, but it is generally possible to return it to the original format.

Convert MPX to other file formats

Converting Files to MPX Format

Solving Common MPX File Challenges

MPX files may present some challenges, but most can be easily addressed with minor software tweaks. See the troubleshooting tips below for guidance.

Are there any techniques or tools available to repair a damaged MPX file?

Open the damaged MPX file with a recovery program, and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair process. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged document files.

What are the telltale signs of a corrupt MPX file?

Corrupted MPX document files may show the following signs:

  • Unexpected expansion of the total size of the MPX file;
  • Opening or processing the file in Microsoft Project or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
  • The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
  • While working with the file, error messages appear;
  • Editing the archive in Microsoft Project is accompanied by slow performance or delays;

What factors contribute to Microsoft Project crash?

Microsoft Project crashes can occur due to outdated software versions. To mitigate this, install the latest updates for Microsoft products.

A simple restart of your computer can often fix many common problems, which is why it is the recommended first step before making any adjustments to your software settings.