The reliable approach is to use a matching Windows Features-on-Demand (FOD) image that includes the XPS Viewer payload and install it offline with DISM. Where to get the correct ISO / package
- Microsoft provides “Features on Demand” packages (optional feature payloads) as separate FOD ISOs or CAB packages rather than in every generic Windows install ISO; the XPS Viewer payload is delivered as an FOD component.
- In managed environments the FOD ISOs are normally obtained from Microsoft Volume Licensing (VLSC) or Visual Studio Subscriptions, or by downloading the specific FOD package that matches your Windows 11 build from Microsoft channels used by enterprise admins.
- Community threads and Microsoft Q&A confirm that the XPS components are distributed as optional features and must match the installed Windows build to install successfully
To verify exact Windows build, run this on the affected PC (elevated command prompt or PowerShell):
winver
or: systeminfo | findstr /B /C:"OS Name" /C:"OS Version"
You must use a FOD ISO or package that exactly matches that build (major version + build number + update revision).
Please try it and tell me the result. Happy to help :)
Vivian