How to Install CAB Files in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide
CAB files on Windows 11 typically contain system updates or hardware drivers. The installation process takes a few moments using built-in command-line tools.
You install CAB files in Windows 11 using Command Prompt or PowerShell with administrator privileges. Open your chosen tool, then type `dism /Online /Add-Package /PackagePath:”FULL_PATH_TO_CAB_FILE”` for Command Prompt, or `Add-WindowsPackage -Online -PackagePath “FULL_PATH_TO_CAB_FILE”` for PowerShell.
What Is a CAB File?
A CAB (cabinet) file functions essentially as a compressed archive holding one or more system files. Windows and device manufacturers package system updates and drivers this way to reduce file sizes.
This compression saves storage space by bundling multiple files together.
How to Install a CAB File in 🪟 Windows 11
Several methods exist for installing these packages.
1Using Command Prompt
You can install CAB files Windows 11 using Command Prompt by running a built-in deployment tool with administrator rights. This method is the fastest way to apply system updates and patches directly through a text command without needing any extra software.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator (this means running it with special permissions).
- Type the command below, but replace
FULL_PATH_TO_CAB_FILEwith the full location of your CAB file. For example, if your CAB file is in Downloads, it might look like this:C:UsersYourNameDownloadsfile.cab.
dism /Online /Add-Package /PackagePath:"FULL_PATH_TO_CAB_FILE"
Example:
dism /Online /Add-Package /PackagePath:"C:UsersRichardDownloadsWindows10.0-KB5018851-x64.cab"
Execution completion triggers a confirmation message in the console window.
2Using Windows PowerShell
Windows PowerShell lets you install CAB files Windows 11 by executing a specific package management command with administrative privileges. This method works well for system administrators who prefer using modern scripting tools to apply updates and drivers.
- Type this command, again replacing
FULL_PATH_TO_CAB_FILEwith your file’s path:
Add-WindowsPackage -Online -PackagePath "FULL_PATH_TO_CAB_FILE"
Example:
Add-WindowsPackage -Online -PackagePath "C:UsersRichardDownloadsWindows10.0-KB5018851-x64.cab"
The console displays a success notification upon completion.
3Extract and Install CAB Files Using File Explorer
File Explorer allows you to manually extract the contents of CAB files Windows 11 so you can install individual hardware drivers without running full system update commands. This approach helps when you only need a specific driver rather than the entire update package.
- Open File Explorer (the folder icon on your taskbar).
- Find your CAB file and double-click it to open.
- Select all the files inside, right-click, and choose Extract All.
- Pick a folder where you want to save the extracted files, then click Extract.
Extracted files install through Device Manager. Review the guide on How to install device drivers in Windows 11 for detailed instructions.
Summary
Installing CAB files Windows 11 is possible using either Command Prompt, PowerShell, or by extracting the contents directly through File Explorer depending on whether you are applying a system update or just installing a specific hardware driver.- CAB files are compressed packages with updates or drivers for Windows.
- You can install them using Command Prompt or PowerShell, by typing simple commands.
- If you only want certain drivers, you can extract CAB files using File Explorer and install just what you need.
- Helpful links and pictures make the process easier to follow.
Helpful Links & Resources
- Microsoft official info about CAB files
- How to open apps as administrator in Windows 11
- How to open Command Prompt in Windows 11
- How to open PowerShell in Windows 11
Questions or feedback belong in the comment section below.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard is a writer at Geek Rewind who turns complex IT tasks into clear, step-by-step guides. He draws on years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, focusing on Windows, Linux and WordPress: the problems people actually run into, and the fixes that work. His server and WordPress guides come from systems he runs himself. Richard builds and maintains the platform behind Geek Rewind, from its Ubuntu servers and Nginx configuration to its custom WordPress plugins. Many new tutorials start with readers' questions, and he's always glad to answer them in the comments.
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