XLR File Extension

What is XLR file?

XLR is a spreadsheet document associated with Microsoft Works. XLR format uses the standard spreadsheet data layout but is somewhat limited regarding to he amount of data a single file can accommodate and process. XLR documents support such features as formula creator, charting tools, or image processing. Microsoft Works is a more limited version of the popular Microsoft Office Excel application. Microsoft Excel supports reading data from XLR files, but not editing or saving output to this format.

Microsoft Works

Works office suite is a lightweight alternative to Office package. In 2010, Microsoft discontinued Works and replaced it with Office 2010 Starter Edition package. The final version of Works is available for free (with ads).

Programs which support XLR file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with XLR files, divided into 2 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with XLR suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 10/14/2022

How to open file with XLR extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening XLR files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Works Spreadsheet 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 Microsoft Works software

Problems with opening and working with XLR files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with XLR files being present on your machine. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Microsoft Works or different compatible program, such as Microsoft Excel. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download Microsoft Works installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Microsoft Corporation website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Microsoft Works

If the problems with opening XLR files still occur even after installing Microsoft Works, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft Works 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 Works installed, it may not support XLR format. The latest version of Microsoft Works should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Works Spreadsheet files with Microsoft Works

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate XLR files with latest version of Microsoft Works 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.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the XLR with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Microsoft Works installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open XLR files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the XLR file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select Microsoft Works and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with XLR extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the XLR for errors

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

1. Check the XLR file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the XLR is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the scanner detected that the XLR file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

If the XLR file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. 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. If the XLR 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.

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

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

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support XLR files. Close all running programs and try opening the XLR file.

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

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Works Spreadsheet file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle XLR files.

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