.XLS File Type
File extension: XLS or .xls
Description: Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet
Author of the .xls file extension: Microsoft Corporation
Category: Spreadsheet file
Programs that use the .xls file type: Microsoft Excel
Explanation of .xls file extensions:
The .xls file extension is the extension used by Microsoft Excel worksheets. This extension can be opened with Excel, the Microsoft Excel Viewer, and OpenOffice.org Calc.
Typical problems associated with the .xls file extension:
One of the most common problems with .xls files is that they often arrive unexpectedly in e-mail boxes – infected with computer viruses or spyware. Another problem is that .xls files can become corrupt or having a missing file association.
Solutions/Recommendations:
In order to open an .xls file, you must have a program capable of opening it such as Microsoft Excel, Excel Viewer, or OpenOffice.org Calc. The Excel Viewer is a free download found on the Microsoft Office website. You can only view the .xls file when using this utility. If you want to be able to edit it, consider the free OpenOffice.org Calc.
If you are not expecting an .xls file and one arrives in your e-mail box, perform a scan using anti-virus and anti-spyware software before opening it.
If you have a copy of Excel, Excel Viewer, or Calc but still can’t open the .xls file, it’s possible that no file association is linked to the file and your operating system doesn’t know what program to use to open it. To set a file association manually, go into Windows Explorer and find the .xls file that you need. Right-click the file with your mouse and choose “Open with” in the menu that appears. Next, select Excel (or Excel Viewer or Calc) from the list. You may need to browse to find the appropriate program. Place a tick mark in the box below so that the desired program will always open .xls files.
Associated links:
Excel Viewer - http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=C8378BF4-996C-4569-B547-75EDBD03AAF0&displaylang=en
OpenOffice.org Calc - http://www.openoffice.org/product/calc.html
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