XLNK file icon

XLNK File Extension

XML Shortcut Format

What is XLNK file?

Full format name of files that use XLNK extension is XML Shortcut Format. XLNK files are supported by software applications available for devices running Linux, Windows. XLNK file format, along with 6033 other file formats, belongs to the Misc Files category. The most popular program for handling XLNK files is XLNK_launcher, but users can choose among 2 different programs that support this file format.

Programs which support XLNK file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open XLNK files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. Files with XLNK 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.

Programs that support XLNK file

How to open file with XLNK extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening XLNK files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with XLNK 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. Get the XLNK_launcher

Install software to open XLNK file The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports XLNK files installed on the system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing XLNK_launcher or different compatible program, such as Microsoft Office. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit XLNK_launcher website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of XLNK_launcher

Update software that support file extension XLNKIf you already have XLNK_launcher installed on your systems and XLNK 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. If you have an older version of XLNK_launcher installed, it may not support XLNK 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 XLNK_launcher.

Step 3. Associate XML Shortcut Format files with XLNK_launcher

If you have the latest version of XLNK_launcher installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage XLNK on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Associate software with XLNK file on Windows

Change the default application in Windows

  • Clicking the XLNK with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
  • Select Choose another app → More apps
  • The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where XLNK_launcher is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open XLNK files and clicking OK.
Associate software with XLNK file on Mac

Change the default application in Mac OS

  • By clicking right mouse button on the selected XLNK file open the file menu and choose Information
  • Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
  • Select XLNK_launcher and click Change for all...
  • Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with XLNK extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the XLNK for errors

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

Check XLNK file for viruses
1. Verify that the XLNK in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the XLNK file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. XLNK file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic XLNK file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with XLNK extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

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. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the XML Shortcut Format file.

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

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

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

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with XML Shortcut Format file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle XLNK files.

Do you want to help?

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