How to Decode or Install EXE Files Using a Mac

Open EXE files on your Mac using Boot Camp

Nearly all of the ways to decode or install an EXE file using a Mac involve creating a Windows environment either within or beside the OS X environment, and then opening the EXE file using Windows. EXE files are not coded to run natively on OS X. If you attempt to open an EXE file on a Mac running OS X, the file will not run because the operating system does not understand it. One reliable option for decoding or installing EXE files on a Mac is Boot Camp, an Apple utility that allows users to install Windows on a Mac computer.

Things You'll Need

• An Intel-based Mac with a built-in or USB keyboard and a built-in trackpad or USB mouse.
• Mac OS X v10.5 or later.
• At least 10 GB of free space on your startup disk (single partition).
• A full, single-disc version of Windows 7 (Mac OS X v10.6 or later only), Windows Vista, Windows XP Home Edition or Professional with Service Pack 2 or later

Instructions

1. Back up your important data before using Boot Camp.

2. Update OS X to the latest version and install the latest firmware and software patches.

3. Open Boot Camp Assistant (located in /Applications/Utilities/) and follow the on-screen instructions to create a partition for Windows.

4. Install Windows by selecting “Start the Windows installer” in Boot Camp Assistant.

5. Boot to Windows and install the Boot Camp Drivers for Windows by inserting your Mac OS X disc and following the on-screen instructions.

6. Start using Windows. You are now able to run EXE files using your Mac.

References

• Echo One: Seven Ways to Open EXE Files in Mac OS X
• NewsFlap: How To Open A .exe File On Mac OS X
• Apple: Mac 101: Using Windows on your Mac via Boot Camp
• Apple: Boot Camp Installation & Setup Guide (PDF)