Do you often encounter issues with corrupted files on your Windows computer? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many computer users face this problem, especially when it comes to Microsoft Excel files. Thankfully, there are ways to fix the issue of corrupted files, and we have rounded up some of the best methods for you. Read below to find out how to fix corrupted files and recover your precious data.
Method 1: Use the Open and Repair Feature in Microsoft Excel
If you are having trouble opening an Excel file and you suspect that the file is corrupted, try using the built-in ‘Open and Repair’ feature in Excel. This feature can help fix issues with corrupted files that prevent them from opening properly.
- First, open Microsoft Excel.
- Click on ‘File’ and then select ‘Open’.
- Find the corrupted Excel file and select it.
- Click on the drop-down box next to the ‘Open’ button and select ‘Open and Repair’.
- Excel will try to repair the file and open it once the repair process is complete.
Method 2: Use a Third-Party Excel Repair Tool
If the built-in ‘Open and Repair’ feature in Excel does not work, you may need to use a third-party Excel repair tool. There are many tools available online, but it’s important to choose a reliable one. Here are some of the top Excel repair tools:
Stellar File Repair Toolkit
This is a comprehensive tool that can repair a wide range of files, including Excel spreadsheets. It has a user-friendly interface and can repair files quickly and efficiently. It supports all versions of Excel.
Image source: https://www.stellarinfo.com/repair-excel-file.php
DataNumen Excel Repair
This tool is designed specifically for repairing Excel files and can recover a high percentage of data. It supports all versions of Excel.
Image source: https://www.datanumen.com/excel-repair/
FAQs
1. What causes Excel files to become corrupted?
Excel files can become corrupted due to a variety of reasons, including:
- Hardware failures such as power outages, bad sectors on hard drives, and failed RAM modules
- Software issues such as viruses and malware
- The file was not saved properly
- The file was attached to an email and became corrupted during transmission
- The Excel file was edited by multiple people simultaneously
2. Can I prevent Excel files from becoming corrupted?
While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of corruption, there are some steps you can take to minimize the risk:
- Save your Excel files frequently
- Use a UPS (uninterruptable power supply) to prevent sudden power outages
- Keep your anti-virus software up-to-date
- Always properly exit Excel and ensure that all files are closed before shutting down your computer
Video Tutorial: How to Recover Corrupt Excel Files
For those who prefer visual instruction, here is a helpful video on how to recover corrupt Excel files:
We hope this article has been helpful in teaching you how to fix corrupted Excel files. Remember to save your files frequently and take preventive measures to avoid file corruption.
