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Application packaging is performed in three stages during the development process: unencrypted packaging, test encryption packaging, and production encryption packaging. In addition, you can split a package into multiple subset packages, which can then be burned to multiple discs.
MSIXVC2 introduces a simplified development workflow for PC titles. By using makepkg upload /d <folder> /msixvc2 /pc, you can package and upload your build to Partner Center in a single command directly from loose files. For more information, see Getting started with MSIXVC2 for PC.
This article describes the following sections:

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Test encrypted packaging

By default, makepkg pack creates a package with test encryption. This encryption method allows testing for performance. We recommend that you deploy and test packaging by using test encryption. To create a package with test encryption, call makepkg pack as follows.

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Creating encrypted packaging for production

To create a package for your final submission, use the same packaging command as the one used to create a test package, but with the /l flag.
Tip: For XBOX console packages: Use makepkg /lk to test and submit the same package! See the encryption section for more information on the available package encryption methods offered by makepkg.

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Splitting a package

The splitpkg.exe tool allows you to split a package into one or more subset packages, according to a subset XML file. You can then burn these subset packages onto separate discs. This feature is especially useful if your game is very large and can’t fit onto a single disc.

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See also

White Paper: Title Packaging and Streaming Installation Testing (Developer Education Materials > All NDA Whitepapers)
Last modified on August 20, 2026

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