File Extension Database

Open XL File

In the world of digital files, extensions play a crucial role in informing users of the type and format of the file they're using. One such extension is the XL file extension. In this article, we'll look into various formats, ways to open, and uses for files with the XL file extension. We'll also explore multiple uses for the extension with dedicated chapters for each use.

Possible File Formats for XL Files

XL file extension has multiple file format associations. They are:

Microsoft Excel Worksheet (*.xl) - As an abbreviation of "Excel" (e.g., "sample.xl"), this file format is an older format of Microsoft Excel spreadsheets, used before .xls and .xlsx formats became widely adopted.
Printer Driver Files (*.xl) - Some printer driver files, specifically for Brother P-Touch Label Printers, use the XL file extension.
Extended Layer description files (*.xl) - A less-common file association that are used to store extra information about a data layer in GIS (Geographic Information System) applications called XLayer.

Opening and Using Microsoft Excel XL Files

If you have a file with the .xl extension, it may be an old Microsoft Excel worksheet. Although Excel no longer uses this file format, you can still attempt to open these files.

To access an .xl file in Microsoft Excel, use the "Open" dialogue and select "All Files" to ensure you can see the .xl file in question. Note that later versions of Excel can experience compatibility issues.

Opening and Using Printer Driver Files

Some printer driver files, like the ones used by the Brother P-Touch Label Printers, use the .xl extension. To view and access these files, you need to:

Download and install Brother P-Touch Label Printer's software on your computer.
Open the program and navigate to the location of the .xl file.
Open the file and make adjustments as necessary using the provided software options.

Opening and Using Extended Layer Description Files

For Extended Layer description files (.xl) used in GIS applications:

Choose the GIS software that suits your needs best, such as QGIS or ArcGIS.
Consult the software's documentation to determine the best practice for importing and using extended layer description files.

XL File Important Information

In summary, while the XL file extension is not commonly used today, it is essential to be aware of the possibilities it brings to the table when dealing with older or specialized files. By understanding the various file formats, how to open and use them, you can access the information contained within XL files and make effective use of it in your work.

How Can I Open XL File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open XL file is to find a XL file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a XL file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open XL file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as XL file opener then try to search online for "XL viewer", "application to open XL file" or "open XL file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open XL file

How Can I Open XL File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a XL file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a XL file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with XL file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as XL file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open XL file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open XL file then try to search for "XL viewer", "application to open XL file" or "read XL file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read XL file

How Can I Open XL File on Android

If you downloaded a XL file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded XL file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "XL".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "XL viewer", "XL file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open XL File on iPhone or iPad

To open XL File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the XL file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "XL". This way you can find apps which can open XL files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "XL viewer" or "XL file" online in your favorite search engine.

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