How to Recover .XLSX Files Lost During Disk Failures

Have files been deleted due to a user’s error or software error? Have you formatted a disk by accident and need to know how to recover the files? Read our .XLSX file recovery guide for Windows, MacOS, Android and IOS in 2024.

How to Recover .XLSX Files Lost During Disk Failures
Data Recovery Tool

What is a .XLSX file?

An XLSX file is an Excel spreadsheet created by Microsoft Excel or another spreadsheet program, such as OpenOffice Calc or Apple Numbers. It stores data in worksheets, which contain cells arranged in a grid of rows and columns, and may also contain charts, mathematical functions, styles, and formatting. XLSX files are commonly used to store financial data and to create simple or complex mathematical models.

What Are Common Causes of ".XLSX" Files Lost or Failure?

There are several common causes of ".XLSX" files lost or failure:

  1. Accidental deletion: Users may accidentally delete ".XLSX" files while organizing or cleaning up their computer or storage devices.
  2. File corruption: ".XLSX" files can become corrupted due to various reasons such as sudden power outages, hardware failures, software conflicts, or improper shutdowns.
  3. Virus or malware attacks: Malicious software can infect ".XLSX" files and cause them to become inaccessible or completely lost.
  4. Software or application errors: Errors in the software or application used to create or open ".XLSX" files can lead to file loss or failure.
  5. Operating system issues: Problems with the operating system, such as crashes or file system errors, can result in ".XLSX" file loss or corruption.
  6. Storage media failure: If the storage device where the ".XLSX" files are stored (such as a hard drive or USB flash drive) fails or becomes damaged, the files may be lost or become unreadable.
  7. Human error: Accidental overwriting, formatting, or saving changes to the wrong file can also cause ".XLSX" file loss or failure.
  8. Network issues: If ".XLSX" files are stored on a network drive or shared folder, network connectivity issues or server problems can lead to file loss or corruption.

It is important to regularly backup ".XLSX" files to prevent permanent loss and to use reliable data recovery tools or services in case of accidental file deletion or corruption.

How to recover lost ".XLSX" files?

Sometimes while working with a computer, laptop or other stationary or mobile devices, you may encounter various bugs, freezes, hardware or software failures, even in spite of regular updates and junk cleaning. As a result, an important ".XLSX" file may be deleted.

Go to view
🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

By no means should you think that the only way to recover a ".XLSX" file is always to create it once more.

Use programs for recovering ".XLSX" files if a file was lost after accidental or deliberate deleting, formatting the memory card or the internal storage, cleaning the storage device, after a virus attack or a system failure.

Programs to recover ".XLSX" files

Looking for a way to get files back? In cases when files were deleted and they cannot be restored by using standard operating system tools, use Hetman Partition Recovery.

Partition Recovery™ 4.9
The tool recovers data from any devices, regardless of the cause of data loss.
Download

Follow the directions below:

  1. Download Hetman Partition Recovery, install and start the program.

  2. The program will automatically scan the computer and display all hard disks and removable drives connected to it, as well as physical and local disks.

    File Recovery Software

  3. Double-click on the disk from which you need to recover ".XLSX" files, and select analysis type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Analysis Type

  4. When the scanning is over, you will be shown the files for recovery.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Files that Can be Restored

  5. To find a file you need, use the program’s interface to open the folder it was deleted from, or go to the folder "Content-Aware Analysis" and select the required file type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Deep Scan

  6. Select the files you have been looking for and click "Recovery".

    File Recovery Software - Files List for Recovery

  7. Choose one of the methods for saving the files and recover them.

    Saving recovered files in Hetman Partition Recovery

How to open file with ".XLSX" extension?

Looking for how to open a stereo microsoft Excel Open XML Spreadsheet image file file?

Programs that open ".XLSX" files

Windows
File Viewer Plus File Viewer Plus
Microsoft Excel 2019 Microsoft Excel 2019
OxygenOffice Professional OxygenOffice Professional
Corel WordPerfect X9 Corel WordPerfect X9
Apache OpenOffice Apache OpenOffice
SoftMaker Office SoftMaker Office
Gnumeric Gnumeric
LibreOffice LibreOffice
Mac
Microsoft Excel 2019 Microsoft Excel 2019
Apple Numbers Apple Numbers
Apache OpenOffice Apache OpenOffice
Planamesa NeoOffice Planamesa NeoOffice
LibreOffice LibreOffice
Linux
OxygenOffice Professional OxygenOffice Professional
Apache OpenOffice Apache OpenOffice
Gnumeric Gnumeric
LibreOffice LibreOffice
Web
Google Drive Google Drive
Intuit QuickBooks Canada Intuit QuickBooks Canada
iOS
Microsoft Excel Microsoft Excel
Apple Numbers Apple Numbers
MobiSystems OfficeSuite Pro MobiSystems OfficeSuite Pro
Infraware Polaris Office Infraware Polaris Office
Google Drive Google Drive
Android
File Viewer for Android File Viewer for Android
Microsoft Excel Microsoft Excel
Kingsoft WPS Office for Android Kingsoft WPS Office for Android
MobiSystems OfficeSuite Pro MobiSystems OfficeSuite Pro
Google Drive Google Drive
SoftMaker Office: PlanMaker Mobile SoftMaker Office: PlanMaker Mobile

Additional Information

  • File type: Microsoft Excel Open XML Spreadsheet

  • File extension: .XLSX

  • Developer: Microsoft

  • Category: Spreadsheet Files

  • Format: Zip

  • Mime-type: application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedoc

  • HEX: 50 4B 03 04

  • ASCII: PK

Feedback

We will be happy to answer your questions!

Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 14:31 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .XLSX files after deleting, cleaning or formatting!
    Reply
Post comment
User
Leave a reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • Updated:
  • Evaluations:
  • 2
  • /
  • :
Vladimir Artiukh

Author: Vladimir Artiukh, Technical Writer

Vladimir Artiukh is a technical writer for Hetman Software, as well as the voice and face of their English-speaking YouTube channel, Hetman Software: Data Recovery for Windows. He handles tutorials, how-tos, and detailed reviews on how the company’s tools work with all kinds of data storage devices.

Oleg Afonin

Editor: Oleg Afonin, Technical Writer

Oleg Afonin is an expert in mobile forensics, data recovery and computer systems. He often attends large data security conferences, and writes several blogs for such resources as xaker.ru, Elcomsoft and Habr. In addition to his online activities, Oleg’s articles are also published in professional magazines. Also, Oleg Afonin is the co-author of a well-known book, Mobile Forensics - Advanced Investigative Strategies.

Share

Questions and answers

  • What are the common causes of .XLSX file corruption and the need for repair?

    There are several common causes of .XLSX file corruption, leading to the need for repair:

    1. Software or system crashes: Sudden power outages, software conflicts, or system crashes while working on an .XLSX file can result in corruption.
    2. Virus or malware infections: Malicious software can infect .XLSX files, leading to corruption or loss of data.
    3. File transfer errors: If there are interruptions or errors during the transfer of .XLSX files, it can lead to corruption.
    4. Storage media issues: Problems with the storage device where the .XLSX file is stored, such as bad sectors or physical damage, can corrupt the file.
    5. Unsupported software versions: Opening or modifying .XLSX files in incompatible or outdated software versions can cause corruption.
    6. Large file sizes: Large .XLSX files are more prone to corruption, especially if the software or system does not handle them properly.
    7. Improper shutdowns: Closing the application or system abruptly without saving or closing .XLSX files properly can result in corruption.
    8. Human errors: Accidental deletion, incorrect formatting, or other mistakes while working with .XLSX files can lead to corruption.

    When an .XLSX file gets corrupted, it may become inaccessible, display error messages, or show incorrect or missing data. In such cases, repairing the file becomes necessary to recover the data and restore its functionality.

  • What are the available methods or tools to repair a corrupted .XLSX file?

    There are several methods and tools available to repair a corrupted .XLSX file:

    1. Open and Repair: Microsoft Excel has a built-in "Open and Repair" feature that can help repair corrupted .XLSX files. To use this feature, open Excel, click on "File" > "Open" and select the corrupted file. Then, click on the arrow next to the "Open" button and choose "Open and Repair."
    2. Save as Different Format: Try saving the corrupted .XLSX file as a different format such as .CSV (Comma Separated Values) or .XLS (Excel 97-2003 Workbook). After saving, try opening the file in Excel again and see if it opens without any issues. You can then save it back as a .XLSX file.
    3. Third-Party File Repair Tools: There are various third-party tools available that specialize in repairing corrupted Excel files. Some popular tools include Stellar Repair for Excel, Kernel for Excel Repair, and Recovery Toolbox for Excel. These tools often have advanced algorithms to recover data from severely corrupted .XLSX files.
    4. Online File Repair Services: There are online services that allow you to upload your corrupted .XLSX file, and they will attempt to repair it for you. Examples include Online File Repair, File Repair Online, and RepairMyExcel.

    Note: It is recommended to create a backup of your corrupted .XLSX file before attempting any repair methods, as there is a chance that the repair process may cause further data loss or corruption.

  • Are there any precautions or best practices to follow when attempting to repair a .XLSX file to avoid further data loss or damage?

    Yes, there are several precautions and best practices to follow when attempting to repair a .XLSX file to minimize the risk of further data loss or damage. Here are some recommendations:

    1. Create a backup: Before attempting any repair, make a copy of the original .XLSX file and work on the duplicate. This ensures that you have a backup in case the repair process goes wrong.
    2. Use reliable software: Choose a reputable and reliable file repair software that specifically supports .XLSX files. Research and read reviews to ensure the software is trustworthy and has a good track record.
    3. Scan for malware: Before repairing the .XLSX file, scan your computer for malware or viruses. Malware can further damage or corrupt files, so it's important to ensure your system is clean.
    4. Check for compatibility: Ensure that the file repair software you choose is compatible with the version of Microsoft Excel or the spreadsheet program you are using. Using incompatible software may cause more issues or result in further corruption.
    5. Follow instructions: Carefully follow the instructions provided by the file repair software. Pay attention to any warnings or prompts during the repair process.
    6. Keep a record: Take note of any error messages or issues encountered during the repair process. This information can be helpful if you need to seek further assistance or try alternative methods.
    7. Test the repaired file: After the repair process is complete, open and test the repaired .XLSX file to ensure that it is functioning properly. Verify that all the data is intact and that there are no formatting or calculation errors.
    8. Save the repaired file under a new name: To avoid overwriting the original file, save the repaired .XLSX file with a new name. This ensures that you still have the original file as a backup and can refer to it if needed.

    Remember, it's always a good practice to regularly back up your important files to avoid any significant data loss in case of corruption or damage.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Description
Hello! This is AI-based Hetman Software virtual assistant, and it will answer any of your questions right away.
Start Chat