XLK file icon

XLK File Extension

Excel Backup Format
  • Developer
    Microsoft
  • Category
  • Popularity
    3.5 (2 votes)

What is XLK file?

Full format name of files that use XLK extension is Excel Backup Format. Excel Backup Format format was developed by Microsoft. XLK files are supported by software applications available for devices running Mac OS, Windows. Files with XLK extension are categorized as Backup Files files. The Backup Files subset comprises 243 various file formats. Users are advised to use Microsoft Excel software for managing XLK files, although 2 other programs can also handle this type of file. Microsoft Excel software was developed by Microsoft Corporation, and on its official website you may find more information about XLK files or the Microsoft Excel software program.

Programs which support XLK file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with XLK files, divided into 2 categories based on operating system on which they are available. XLK files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Programs that support XLK file

How to open file with XLK extension?

Being unable to open files with XLK extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with XLK files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install Microsoft Excel

Install software to open XLK file Problems with opening and working with XLK files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with XLK files being present on your machine. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Microsoft Excel or different compatible program, such as Microsoft Office. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Microsoft Excel website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of Microsoft Excel and update if needed

Update software that support file extension XLKIf you already have Microsoft Excel installed on your systems and XLK files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. If you have an older version of Microsoft Excel installed, it may not support XLK format. The latest version of Microsoft Excel should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Excel Backup Format files with Microsoft Excel

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate XLK files with latest version of Microsoft Excel you have installed on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Associate software with XLK file on Windows

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

  • Right-click the XLK file and choose 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 Microsoft Excel is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open XLK files and clicking OK.
Associate software with XLK file on Mac

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

  • Right-click the XLK file and select Information
  • Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
  • Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
  • If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with XLK extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Ensure that the XLK file is complete and free of errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the XLK file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

Check XLK file for viruses
1. Check the XLK file for viruses or malware

If the XLK is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. XLK file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Ensure the file with XLK extension is complete and error-free

If you obtained the problematic XLK file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. It could happen the the download process of file with XLK 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 Excel Backup Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Microsoft Excel

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

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

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Excel Backup Format files. It may be the case that the XLK files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Conversion of a XLK file

File Conversions from XLK extension to a different format
File conversions from other format to XLK file
Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the XLK file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on XLK file.

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