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Excel Error Extension Not Valid: 5 Ways to Fix it
Switch to another file format and open the Excel file
4 min. read
Published onOctober 2, 2024
published onOctober 2, 2024
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If you’ve tried to open an Excel file and been met with the dreadedextension not validerror, you probably have a corrupt workbook in your hands.
It is common to get the common Excelxls and xlsx formatswhere the latter is supported on most OSes and devices. In such cases there’s amismatch in file formatswhich causes the file not to open.
It is also possible that the file extension is not valid because it is not compatible with your version of Excel or OS.
How do I solve Excel file extension is not valid?
1. Change the extension format
If changing to the XLSX format doesn’t open the file, you can also play around withother supported Excel file formatsand see whether this gets rid of the file extension is not valid error.
2. Open with Notepad
Opening the file in another program can help you isolate the issue whether it is a file error or problem with the Excel program. And since Notepad may not display the contents of the Excel file as it should, you can tryalternative spreadsheet softwarethat support a wide range of formats.
3. Repair the workbook
This built-in repair method is designed to identify basic issues with your workbook so if it doesn’t resolve the error, trysome Excel repair toolswith advanced options and see if this works out.
4. Start Excel in Safe Mode
Starting Excel without the add-ins or any customizations can help pin-point the issue of why the file extension is not valid error occurs. If the file launches, you’ll have to disable add-ins one by one orrestore Excel to default settings.
5. Repair the Excel app
Finally, to prevent a repeat of such issues, ensure your Excel app is always up-to-date andcreate a back up of your files. Also, ensure whenever you’re saving your files, they’re in the supported formats preferably with wide compatibility.
That’s a wrap from us but do let us know if you’ve encountered this error before, what solutions did you use? Is there any other we’ve not mentioned that you think could be of help to other users? Drop us a line below.
More about the topics:Excel,Microsoft Excel
Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
Claire has a knack for solving problems and improving the quality of life for those around her. She’s driven by rationality, curiosity, and simplicity, and always eager to learn more about Microsoft’s products. With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11, errors, and software.
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Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11 errors.
