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I cannot open a XLS file. What should I do? Help!

Virtually anyone has encountered some problems with opening unknown files while working on a computer. It can be very frustrating. Yet such problems, not only with XLS files, can be addressed in a standard way. Follow the steps below and we can guarantee that your problem with opening XLS will be resolved!

  1. 1. XLS File Extension
  2. 2. What is a(n) XLS file?
  3. 3. How to open XLS file?
    1. 3.1 Download and install application that supports XLS files
      1. 3.1.1 Programs that support XLS files
    2. 3.2 Verify whether XLS files are associated with appropriate software
    3. 3.3 Check XLS file for other errors
  4. 4. Similar file extensions

XLS File Extension

File
  • File type Excel Spreadsheet
  • File developer Microsoft
  • File category Spreadsheet Files
  • File popularity rating
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What is a(n) XLS file?

The .XLS spreadsheet file is usually generated using Microsoft Excel as part of the Office suite. The file stores data saved in binary format of one or several sheets, taking into account not only data saved in the form of a table but also styles, macros, functions, formatting and charts. Nowadays, the .XLSX format is more popular.

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How to open XLS file?

If given user account does not have necessary permissions to open files with XLS extension, it is highly probable that no program that supports given files is installed on the users’ system. Below is a list of actions user should pursue in order to resolve most common problems.

Step 1. Download and install application that supports XLS files

After the application has been installed, the system should automatically open XLS files with given application. Below is the list of relevant programs along with operating systems they are available for:

Programs that support XLS files

Windows programs
Windows
MAC OS programs
MAC OS
Linux programs
Linux
Android programs
Android

Step 2. Verify whether XLS files are associated with appropriate software

It is possible that an application that supports XLS files is not associated with such files. In such case, the program should by manually associated with XLS files (right-click on the file icon → Properties → General Tab → In submenu "Open with" and click on "Change" button. System will display a list of suggested programs that support XLS files. Choose the application by checking the box "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files". System will store this information in its registry and use it to open XLS files with the selected program.

Changing XLS file association in registry

File association for XLS files can be edited manually by editing appropriate entry in Windows System Registry. However, it is discouraged as it may introduce errors to registry if not done properly and may even damage the system.

Step 3. Check XLS file for other errors

  • XLS file was not copied properly from storage medium.
  • Antivirus application prevents opening XLS files. In that case it is recommended to exercise extreme caution and recover or delete infected XLS file. It is also advised to scan the entire system for malicious software and viruses with antivirus software.
  • For XLS files downloaded from the internet it is advised to check if the file has been downloaded completely and is not corrupted. If not, the file should be re-downloaded.

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