Troubleshoot QEF Files
Issues Opening QEF Files
Microsoft Excel Removed
You attempt to load your QEF file and get an error such as "%%os%% Can't Open The QEF File Extension". Generally, this is experienced in %%os%% because Microsoft Excel isn't installed on your PC. The OS won't know what to do with your QEF file, so double-clicking to load the file doesn't work.
Tip: If you know of another program that can open your QEF file, you can try opening it by selecting the application from the programs listed.
Obsolete Version of Microsoft Excel
Occasionally, you might have an outdated version of Microsoft Excel installed that's incompatible with your Microsoft Excel Query File type. Installing the latest version of Microsoft Excel from Microsoft Corporation is recommended. This issue mainly occurs when your Microsoft Excel Query File file was created by a newer version of Microsoft Excel than you have on your PC.
Tip: Right-clicking on your QEF, then clicking "Properties" (Windows) or "Get Info" (Mac), can provide clues about your file version.
Summary: Not having the right Microsoft Excel version on your computer can cause problems opening QEF files.
Other QEF File Opening Causes
Assuming you have the right Microsoft Excel version installed, other problems can prevent you from opening QEF files. If you are continuing to have errors with loading QEF files, other external issues might be to blame. Additional factors include:
- Corrupt Windows Registry file path references for QEF
- Unintentional removal of the description of the QEF file inside the Windows Registry
- Defective install of a QEF program, such as Microsoft Excel
- Your QEF can't be loaded properly (file corruption)
- The QEF is infected with a virus
- Device drivers of the hardware associated with your QEF file are corrupt or out-of-date
- Your PC doesn’t have enough available resources to open the Microsoft Excel Query File file
Quiz: Which file extension is not a type of spreadsheet?
That's Correct!
An XES file is a type of Settings File, used to store program configuration details. Although it has "X" in the name, it is not a spreadsheet file.
Close, but not quite...
An XES file is a type of Settings File, used to store program configuration details. Although it has "X" in the name, it is not a spreadsheet file.