RELS File Extension

What is RELS file?

RELS files are associated with Open Office software developed by Microsoft. RELS files store information used when processing XML documents.

What are the contents of a RELS file?

RELS files store XML-formatted document data. RELS files are saved in _rels folder of associated XML document. RELS files can be edited with standard text editor.

Programs which support RELS file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with RELS files, divided into 2 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with RELS extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 07/24/2023

How to open file with RELS extension?

Being unable to open files with RELS extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with RELS extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with RELS files.

Step 1. Install Microsoft Word software

Problems with opening and working with RELS files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with RELS files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install Microsoft Word or one to the listed programs: Microsoft Office, Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. The safest method of downloading Microsoft Word installed is by going to developer’s website (Microsoft Corporation) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update Microsoft Word to the latest version

If the problems with opening RELS files still occur even after installing Microsoft Word, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft Word is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. If you have an older version of Microsoft Word installed, it may not support RELS format. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Microsoft Word.

Step 3. Assign Microsoft Word to RELS files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate RELS files with latest version of Microsoft Word you have installed on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Change the default application in Windows

• Clicking the RELS with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where Microsoft Word is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open RELS files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with RELS extension, select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select Microsoft Word and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with RELS extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the RELS for errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper RELS file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

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

If the RELS is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. 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 RELS file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

Did you receive the RELS file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with RELS 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.

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

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

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

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 Open Office XML Relationships Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with RELS files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

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