2 file extensions on one file

[wilster98]

Where I work, we have varying levels of computer skill. We create reports in Excel. Every once in a while, I'll find a file with 2 extensions (e,g MyFile.xlsx.xls). I'm thinking this could be a problem. Is there a potential problem with using 2 extensions?

TIA
Willy

 

[lrobbo314]

The current Excel file format follows the .xlsx format vs. the old .xls format. Having the .xls at the end means that when you open the file in Excel, if you have a current, or current as of Excel 2007, some features of the new file format will be lost.

To avoid this, you can just delete the .xls at the end of your file name, i.e., MyFile.xlsx.

 

[RoryA]

Simply deleting the .xls from the end will not change the file format and will actually cause an error message saying that the file format does not match the extension.

You actually can't have two extensions - anything prior to the last one is just part of the file name and has no particular meaning to Excel or Windows.

 

[lrobbo314]

Simply deleting the .xls from the end will not change the file format

Right you are, I had it in my head that they were trying to get rid of that message.