XLAM File Extension

What is XLAM file?

XLAM files store add-ins for Microsoft Excel. XLAM files can be used to add new features or functionalities to Excel. XLAM format complies with the Open XML standard (XLSX and XLSM files also use this standard). XLAM support was added in Excel 2007 but older version also support it but require Open XML plugin to be installed.

Excel add-ins

Excel add-ins can be divided into groups based on their file format and what type of functionality they offer. XLAM add-ons require the target file to be saved as XLSM file (which supports macros). XLA has no such limitation.

Programs which support XLAM file extension

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

Updated: 06/15/2022

How to open file with XLAM extension?

Problems with accessing XLAM may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with XLAM files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with XLAM files.

Step 1. Download and install Microsoft Excel

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening XLAM files is that no program that can handle XLAM files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select Microsoft Excel or one of the recommended programs (for example, Microsoft Office) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support XLAM files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. 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. Update Microsoft Excel to the latest version

If the problems with opening XLAM files still occur even after installing Microsoft Excel, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft Excel is available. 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 Microsoft Excel installed, it may not support XLAM format. The most recent version of Microsoft Excel is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Excel Open XML Macro-Enabled Add-In files with Microsoft Excel

After installing Microsoft Excel (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open XLAM files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the XLAM with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• 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 XLAM files and clicking OK.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected XLAM file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• 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 XLAM extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the XLAM is not faulty

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

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

If the XLAM 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. XLAM file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

Did you receive the XLAM file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. If the XLAM file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

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 XLAM extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Excel Open XML Macro-Enabled Add-In files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle XLAM files.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the XLAM 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 XLAM file.