XLA File Extension

What is XLA file?

XLA is an add-on file associated with Microsoft Excel. XLA is a binary file and as such cannot be opened using a text editor. XLA add-on can be an official Excel extension created by Microsoft or a custom, user-created file. XLA are typically created for specific Excel version.

Rationale for XLA format and security concerns

Users who frequently work in Excel quickly arrive at the conclusion that additional features that make the work easier and more streamlined would be more than welcome. This is regarding both available commands and formatting options. A good examples are additional time and date options or a spreadsheet format converter tool. XLA files are more secure than infamous macro scripts, yet they still carry some risks. Unverified XLA files should not be opened. Some XLA add-ons have limitations regarding number of activations or require additional software to work properly.

Programs which support XLA file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with XLA files, divided into 2 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with XLA 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: 07/03/2022

How to open file with XLA extension?

Problems with accessing XLA may be due to various reasons. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Excel Add-In Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install Microsoft Excel software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening XLA files is that no program that can handle XLA files is installed on user’s system. The most obvious solution is to download and install Microsoft Excel or one to the listed programs: Microsoft Office, Microsoft Visual Studio. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. 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. Check the version of Microsoft Excel and update if needed

You still cannot access XLA files although Microsoft Excel is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. 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 Excel installed, it may not support XLA format. The latest version of Microsoft Excel should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Microsoft Excel to XLA 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 XLA on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the XLA 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 XLA files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Change the default application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with XLA extension, select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select Microsoft Excel and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with XLA extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Verify that the XLA is not faulty

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 XLA file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

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

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the XLA file hinders attempts to open it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the XLA file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

Did you receive the XLA file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. When downloading the file with XLA extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

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 Excel

If the systems has insufficient resources to open XLA 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 Excel Add-In Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the XLA files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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