XML File Extension

What is XML file?

XML file extension is related to data saved in Extensible Markup Language format. XML files can represent any data structure in plain text format. XML are only used to store data.

XML format details

XML format uses markup structures that define the rules which encoding process must follow in order to create documents both machine-readable and human-readable. XML format is now considered standard format for storing, sharing and transporting data between various applications on the internet. XML standard as a more user-friendly implementation of SGML (Standard Generalized Markup Language).

Data storage and reading

XML files use ASCII encoding, and therefore can be viewed and edited with standard text editors. The information they store, however, can only be processed using dedicated software.

Similarities and differences between XML and HTML

XML is in many ways similar to HTML as both formats utilize markup language to store data. HTML stores WWW content limited only to web page presentation and interaction. XML, however, describes content in relation to the stored data. XML and HTML are used together as a part of many web applications.

Programs which support XML file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open XML files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. XML files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 01/19/2020

How to open file with XML extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening XML files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to XML Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install XMLSpy software

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

Step 2. Update XMLSpy to the latest version

If you already have XMLSpy installed on your systems and XML files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. If you have an older version of XMLSpy installed, it may not support XML format. The most recent version of XMLSpy is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign XMLSpy to XML files

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

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Right-click the XML file and choose Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where XMLSpy is installed, check the Always use this app to open XML files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with XML extension, 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 XML extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the XML for errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the XML file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. The XML may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the XML file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the XML file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. XML 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 XML 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. It could happen the the download process of file with XML extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

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 Format file.

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

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with XML extension. In this case close the other applications.

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 Format file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle XML files.

Do you want to help?

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