Changing an Excel file extension from .xls to .xlsx

Hi Guys,

I have just installed Excel 2010 on a new machine and some of my Excel files created on Excel 2003 will not open. I have read elsewhere that this problem "may" be solved if I change the ending of the files from .xls to one that is more readily recognised by Excel 2010 - I am told .xlsx

In my directories I only see the file name and not the extension. How do I go about being able to see the extension in the directory and then changing it to the desired new one?

If you can help I'd be VERY grateful,

John

If it does work then you're best off using a DOS shell to do the renaming.

In your C:\Windows\System32 directory there should be a program called Cmd.Exe If you run that it will open a mainly black window with some white text on.

You can use the CD command to get to the directory with your files in, eg.

Please Login or Register  to view this content.

You can also change drive by typing in the drive letter followed by a colon...

Please Login or Register  to view this content.

When you get to the directory with your *.xls files in you can use the command

Please Login or Register  to view this content.

To rename all of the files in one hit. I recommend making a backup copy of your files before you do this

When you're finished with the DOS Shell you can return to Windows with:

Please Login or Register  to view this content.

Thanks so much both of you. I'll do what you say and report back.

Really appreciate your replies,

John