XLK Types

Chief XLK Description

.XLK

File Name:	.xlk
Category:	Excel Backup File

The XLK file is a backup file created by Microsoft Excel.The XLK file contains a backup copy of a .XLS file.The XLK file is used to recover spreadsheet data in the event that a spreadsheet file is lost or corrupted.

Organization:	Microsoft Corporation
File Category:	Backup Files
Location:	HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.xlk

Software Programs That Open The Excel Backup File:

Microsoft Excel by Microsoft Corporation

Windows

	Mac
	iOS

Android

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XLK File Complications

Troubles Opening XLK Files

Microsoft Excel Isn't There

When trying to open your XLK file, you get the error "Can't Open XLK File Type". Usually, this is because you do not have Microsoft Excel for %%os%% installed. Your operating system cannot associate your XLK with Microsoft Excel, so double-clicking the file won't work.

Tip: When you have another program installed that you know will open your XLK, you can select it from the other programs listed (see "Show Apps").

Incorrect Microsoft Excel Version

It is possible that your version of Microsoft Excel isn't able to open your Excel Backup File file due to incompatibility. Installing the latest version of Microsoft Excel from Microsoft Corporation is recommended. The primary cause of this problem is that your Excel Backup File file was created by a different (newer) version of Microsoft Excel than what's installed.

Tip: If you right-click on your XLK file, then select "Properties" (Windows) or "Get Info" (Mac), you can obtain hints about what version you need.

Ultimately, most of the difficulties opening XLK files are due to having the wrong version of Microsoft Excel installed.

More Causes of Problems Opening XLKs

Errors opening Excel Backup File files can still occur even with the latest Microsoft Excel software installed on your computer. If you are continuing to have errors with loading XLK files, other external issues might be to blame. These other problems include (listed in order from most to least common):

• XLK file references in the Windows Registry are broken
• Deletion of the XLK file description from the Registry by mistake
• Partial installation of Microsoft Excel that did not fully complete
• XLK file corruption
• Past or present virus infection has affected your XLK
• XLK-related hardware has device drivers that obsolete
• Too many applications are open on your PC to load your Excel Backup File file successfully