ODC File Extension

What is ODC file?

ODC is a text file format associated with Microsoft Excel application included with the Office package. ODC files are used for accessing data form external resources, such as spreadsheets, databases, or other text files. ODC files store information formatted using HTML and XML markups, and can be opened in a web browser or a text editor. Each ODC files store information about the data source, including its location, type, authentication information, or data queries.

ODC usage

ODC files are typically used for accessing data from withing documents. ODC support was introduced in Office 2007, which also allows ODC data source management directly. ODC files can be generated using Excel.

Programs which support ODC file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with ODC files, divided into 2 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with ODC suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 10/05/2022

How to open file with ODC extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening ODC files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with ODC extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the Microsoft Excel

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports ODC files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install Microsoft Excel or one to the listed programs: Safari, StarOffice, Microsoft Internet Explorer. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download Microsoft Excel installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Microsoft Corporation website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update Microsoft Excel to the latest version

If you already have Microsoft Excel installed on your systems and ODC files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that Microsoft Excel cannot handle files with ODC may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of Microsoft Excel is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Microsoft Excel to ODC files

After installing Microsoft Excel (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open ODC files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Change the default application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the ODC file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Microsoft Excel installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open ODC files box and clicking OK button.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the ODC file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with ODC extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Ensure that the ODC file is complete and free of errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the ODC file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the ODC file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the ODC file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the ODC file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the ODC file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Verify that the ODC file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic ODC file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. If the ODC file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Office Data Connection Format file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Microsoft Excel

If the systems has insufficient resources to open ODC files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Office Data Connection Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the ODC files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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