π A .MANIFEST format schema is normally related to an .XML document that explicitly describes the package contents, or manifest, of a certain Windows suite or product. Essentially, the .MANIFEST specification is exploited by various Windows techniques for deploying and configuring software solutions or utilities, including the Common Language Runtime (CLR) and ClickOnce project. Quite frequently, the relevant data entries are accompanied by the compound, expanded β.EXE.MANIFESTβ tagged format marker. The aforementioned extension methodology is normally employed by software developers, unexceptionally. Nevertheless, end users may also tackle with the .MANIFEST label in temporary folders after attempting to open up ClickOnce packages from a respective link in an accessible web-browser. As the obligatory preconditions, the .MANIFEST should not be adjusted, altered, or modified in any way, as well as deleted, otherwise proper ClickOnce solution will cease running and operating successfully as it is supposed to. You can navigate to the Manifest File Schema web-page to review and discover the actual defined .XML-schema for .MANIFEST object entities. As the practice uncovers, the .MANIFEST elements are frequently compiled into .CDF-MS arrangement, which allow the related program distributives and bundles to obtain faster access to the app settings and options. Hereby, you may often see .CDF-MS data patterns in conjunction with respective associated .MANIFEST file categories.
π In other circumstances, the pinpoint instance constitution can be tightly focused on the file principle employed and opened by Valve Steam, a content delivery service especially handy for downloading various video games and entertainment products. Basically, the .MANIFEST-targeted logic is pretty close to .ACF layout and referenced in the process of updating, managing and downloading certain formerly purchased video-games from the genuine Steam online-store.
How to open an .MANIFEST file?
π In accordance with plain, transparent textual hierarchy of the typical .MANIFEST schema, the proper data elements can be retrieved, visualized, and opened by Microsoft Visual Studio, Microsoft Notepad, ClickOnce, or other contemporary text editor, available on the freeware or proprietary business model of distribution. As an optional tweak, it can be handy and eligible to make service of the Steam desktop client, crucial and irreplaceable for downloading and updating purchased video-games and titles.