excel cannot open the file because the file format or file extension is not valid

[haarleen]

My excel file is giving an error message ""excel cannot open the file ...xlsx because the file format or file extension is not valid Verify that the file has not been corrupted"". Please help me how to resolve. I tried open and repair, changing the format, nothing is working. Kindly let me know how should I proceed.
Thanks.

[BlindAlley]

Have you tried using explorer to rename the file and then opening it?

[haarleen]

I used the explorer, renamed the file but it still gives the same error.

[haarleen]

Please find the error message attached.

[Chris5]

Hi haarleen,

This error occurs when you try to open a file created by another user or device. (Hence leading to a different version or file extensions)

I encountered this error; you can fix it by changing the file format. However, If this process does not work, you can also try to fix it by changing excel file permissions.

The objective is to provide you with all the permissions for the file. Follow the given steps:

1. Right-click on that excel file > properties
2. Go to the security tab and click on "edit"
3. In the permissions dialog box, click on "add"
4. Click on Advanced > Find Now
5. Under the search results, scroll down to "Everyone" and click on OK
You will see the "everyone" in the Textbox.
6. Click on OK (and you will return back to the permissions dialog box)
7. Under Group or User names, select "Everyone" and. check all the boxes under "Allow"
8. Click on Apply and then OK

Now try opening your excel file. I hope this will fix it.


Best Regards

[alansidman]

@Chris5
This thread is three years old It is highly unlikely the OP is still looking for a solution. Please address any help you wish to offer to current situations. I am closing this thread.