FODS File Extension

What is FODS file?

FODS is a file extension commonly associated with OpenDocument Flat XML Spreadsheet files. OpenDocument Flat XML Spreadsheet specification was created by Oracle. Files with FODS extension may be used by programs distributed for Linux, Mac OS, Windows platform. FODS file format, along with 100 other file formats, belongs to the Spreadsheet Files category. Users are advised to use Apache OpenOffice software for managing FODS files, although 8 other programs can also handle this type of file. Software named Apache OpenOffice was created by Apache Software Foundation. In order to find more detailed information on the software and FODS files, check the developer’s official website.

Programs which support FODS file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with FODS files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with FODS suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

How to open file with FODS extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening FODS files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with FODS files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install Apache OpenOffice software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening FODS files is that no program that can handle FODS files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Apache OpenOffice or different compatible program, such as LibreOffice, Windows Notepad, NotePad++ text editor. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download Apache OpenOffice installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Apache Software Foundation website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update Apache OpenOffice to the latest version

If you already have Apache OpenOffice installed on your systems and FODS files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why FODS files are not compatible with Apache OpenOffice. The latest version of Apache OpenOffice should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Apache OpenOffice to FODS files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate FODS files with latest version of Apache OpenOffice you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Right-click the FODS file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Apache OpenOffice is installed, check the Always use this app to open FODS files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the FODS file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select Apache OpenOffice and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with FODS extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the FODS is not faulty

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the FODS file is valid. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Verify that the FODS in question is not infected with a computer virus

Should it happed that the FODS is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the FODS file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic FODS file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. It could happen the the download process of file with FODS extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the OpenDocument Flat XML Spreadsheet file again.

4. Check whether your system can handle Apache OpenOffice

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support FODS files. Close all running programs and try opening the FODS file.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with OpenDocument Flat XML Spreadsheet files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the FODS files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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