XL File Extension

What is XL file?

XL is a file extension commonly associated with Excel Spreadsheet files. Microsoft defined the Excel Spreadsheet format standard. XL file format is compatible with software that can be installed on Mac OS, Windows system platform. Files with XL extension are categorized as Spreadsheet Files files. The Spreadsheet Files subset comprises 100 various file formats. Users are advised to use Microsoft Excel software for managing XL files, although 2 other programs can also handle this type of file. Microsoft Excel software was developed by Microsoft Corporation, and on its official website you may find more information about XL files or the Microsoft Excel software program.

Programs which support XL file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with XL files, divided into 2 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with XL 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.

How to open file with XL extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening XL files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Excel Spreadsheet files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with XL files.

Step 1. Install Microsoft Excel software

Problems with opening and working with XL files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with XL files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install Microsoft Excel or one to the listed programs: Microsoft Office. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support XL files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading Microsoft Excel installed is by going to developer’s website (Microsoft Corporation) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Microsoft Excel

You still cannot access XL files although Microsoft Excel is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that Microsoft Excel cannot handle files with XL 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 XL files

If you have the latest version of Microsoft Excel installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage XL on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the XL 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 Microsoft Excel is installed, check the Always use this app to open XL files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Change the default application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected XL file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select Microsoft Excel and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with XL extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Ensure that the XL 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 XL file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

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

Should it happed that the XL is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the XL file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the XL file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If the XL file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. 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 XL 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 Excel Spreadsheet file again.

4. Check whether your system can handle Microsoft Excel

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

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Excel Spreadsheet files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with XL files affecting older versions of given software.

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