Integrations

How Do I Install Ashore’s Adobe Beta Plugin?

The purpose of this article is to explain how to install Ashore’s Adobe plugin before it hits the Adobe Exchange marketplace. If you’d like early access to the Adobe plugin, please reach out to us at support@ashoreapp.com.

What is a ZXP File?

A ZXP file is a packaged extension file used by various Adobe software applications to add additional functionality or features to the software. Think of it as a way to install plugins or extensions that enhance the capabilities of Adobe programs like Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, and more. ZXP files are essentially zip files that contain the code, resources, and a manifest file necessary for the Adobe application to recognize and integrate the extension.

Installing ZXP Files

To install a ZXP file, you typically need an extension installer since Adobe discontinued its Extension Manager. Tools like ZXPInstaller or the command-line utility ExManCmd provided by Adobe can be used to install these files into the appropriate Adobe application.

How to Install

To install a .zxp extension file for Adobe applications, you generally have two methods: using Adobe’s Extension Manager or using a third-party tool like ZXPInstaller. However, Adobe’s Extension Manager has been discontinued, and for newer versions of Adobe applications, you might need to rely on third-party tools or manual installation methods. Here’s how to proceed with each method:

Using Third-Party Tools (ZXPInstaller)

  1. Download ZXPInstaller: Go to ZXPInstaller and download the tool for your operating system.
  2. Run ZXPInstaller: Open the application after installing it.
  3. Install the Extension: Drag your .zxp file onto the ZXPInstaller window, or click to select the file through the dialogue. The installer will handle the rest.

Manual Installation (ExManCmd)

For a more manual approach, especially useful if you encounter issues with third-party installers, Adobe provides a command-line utility called ExManCmd.

  1. Download ExManCmd: Search for “Adobe ExManCmd” to find and download the latest version of the command-line utility from Adobe’s official website.
  2. Extract and Navigate: After downloading, extract the contents and open a terminal or command prompt window. Navigate to the directory where ExManCmd is located.
  3. Install the Extension: Use the command ExManCmd.exe /install path/to/your/extension.zxp on Windows or ./ExManCmd --install path/to/your/extension.zxp on macOS, replacing path/to/your/extension.zxp with the actual path to your .zxp file.

Troubleshooting

  • Permissions: Ensure you have adequate permissions to install extensions in your Adobe applications. Running ZXPInstaller or ExManCmd as an administrator (Windows) or using sudo (macOS) can sometimes help.
  • Compatibility: Check if your .zxp extension is compatible with the version of the Adobe application you’re using. Some older extensions might not work with newer versions of applications.
  • Creative Cloud: For newer Adobe applications managed through Creative Cloud, you might also look into the Creative Cloud Desktop app to manage and install extensions, though direct .zxp file installation support may vary.

Choose the method that best suits your setup and follow the steps for a smooth installation process. If you encounter any issues, checking the documentation for the specific tool or method you’re using can provide additional insights and troubleshooting steps.