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Install an Extension

Extensions come as .zxp files and run inside After Effects as dockable panels. They require a third-party installer — After Effects cannot install them directly.

Option 1: ZXP Installer (recommended)

ZXP Installer by aescripts + aeplugins is a free tool that makes installing extensions simple.

1. Download and install ZXP Installer from aescripts.com .
2. Download your .zxp file — you'll receive a download link via email after purchase.
3. Open ZXP Installer, then drag your .zxp file onto the ZXP Installer window.
4. Restart After Effects once the installation completes.
5. Open your extension via Window → Extensions → [Extension Name].

Option 2: Manual installation

If you prefer to install manually, rename your .zxp file to .zip and extract it, then copy the extracted folder to:

• macOS: ~/Library/Application Support/Adobe/CEP/extensions/
• Windows: C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Adobe\CEP\extensions\

Restart After Effects after copying the folder.

Extension doesn't appear in the Window menu?

Make sure you have the correct version of After Effects. Check the product page for supported version requirements. If the extension still doesn't appear, visit the troubleshooting guide or contact us.