XLSB File – What is .xlsb file and how to open it?
XLSB File Extension
Microsoft Excel Binary Spreadsheet – file format by Microsoft
XLSB is a file format used by Microsoft Excel to store binary spreadsheets. It is a compact and efficient format that can reduce file size by up to 75% compared to the traditional XLSX format. XLSB files are not compatible with older versions of Excel, but can be opened and edited in Excel 2007 and later.
Definition and Characteristics
XLSB is a Microsoft Office file format for Excel binary spreadsheets. Unlike the traditional XLSX format, which uses a complex XML structure, XLSB employs a more compact binary format. This binary structure allows XLSB files to be significantly smaller while maintaining compatibility with older versions of Excel. XLSB files are specifically designed to optimize performance and reduce file size, making them well-suited for large datasets or spreadsheets containing complex calculations.
Benefits and Drawbacks
One of the primary advantages of XLSB is its reduced file size compared to XLSX. This can be particularly beneficial when working with extensive data or when transferring files over networks or email. Additionally, XLSB files offer faster loading times and improved performance, especially when opening or editing large spreadsheets. However, XLSB files may not be fully supported by third-party applications or older versions of Excel. Additionally, file recovery options may be limited compared to XLSX files.
Opening XLSB Files Using Microsoft Excel
XLSB files are proprietary file formats created by Microsoft for its Excel spreadsheet software. To open an XLSB file, you will need Microsoft Excel installed on your system. Once Excel is installed, you can follow these steps to open the file:
- Launch Microsoft Excel.
- Click on the “File” menu.
- Select “Open”.
- In the “File Open” dialog box, navigate to the location of the XLSB file.
- Select the file and click “Open”.
The XLSB file will now be opened in Excel. You can view and edit the contents of the file like any other Excel workbook.
Opening XLSB Files Using Alternative Software
If you do not have Microsoft Excel installed, there are several alternative software programs that can open XLSB files. These programs include:
- OpenOffice Calc: OpenOffice Calc is a free and open-source office suite that can open and edit XLSB files.
- LibreOffice Calc: LibreOffice Calc is another free and open-source office suite that can open and edit XLSB files.
- Gnumeric: Gnumeric is a free and open-source spreadsheet program that can open and edit XLSB files.
To open an XLSB file using one of these programs, simply launch the program and open the file like you would any other spreadsheet file.
XLSB File Format: A Compact and Efficient Alternative
The XLSB file format (Microsoft Excel Binary Spreadsheet) emerged as an efficient alternative to the traditional XLSX format, which utilizes the complex XML-based Open Office XML specification. Unlike XLSX, XLSB employs a binary file structure, offering significant advantages in terms of file size and performance. By reducing the file size compared to XLSX, XLSB facilitates faster loading and processing, particularly for spreadsheets containing large volumes of data. This streamlined format is ideal for users who prioritize speed and efficiency.
XLSB’s Robust Features and Compatibility
Despite its compact nature, the XLSB format does not compromise on functionality. It supports a comprehensive range of features found in XLSX, including charts, formulas, formatting, and conditional formatting. Moreover, XLSB files are backward-compatible with older versions of Microsoft Excel, allowing for seamless collaboration and data exchange between users. The format’s compatibility extends to other spreadsheet applications, ensuring that XLSB files can be accessed and edited by a wide range of software. This versatility makes XLSB a practical choice for users who require flexibility and compatibility across different platforms.