WKU File Extension

WKU file icon

Lotus 1-2-3 Spreadsheet

What is a WKU file?

The WKU file extension is linked to Lotus 1-2-3 Spreadsheet and belongs to the Spreadsheet Files category, which includes 113 files.

IBM, the developer of the Lotus 1-2-3 Spreadsheet (WKU), has released file format and 70 programs designed to handle them.

WKU files are supported by Windows, Mac OS and Linux. There are 4 programs available to open a WKU file, including popular tools like Lotus 1-2-3, OpenOffice Calc and Corel Quattro Pro.

How to open a WKU file?

If you are having trouble opening a WKU file, it usually means the right software is not installed. Choose a program from the list that matches your operating system. Next, visit the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it on your device.

The most popular programs for working with WKU files are Lotus 1-2-3, OpenOffice Calc and Corel Quattro Pro. To install the current version of Lotus 1-2-3, go directly to the official IBM website. The universal package for all operating systems is available there.

After setup, the operating system should recognize WKU files and link them with Lotus 1-2-3.

Setting Lotus 1-2-3 as default WKU viewer

Changing the default program in Windows

  1. Right-click on your WKU file and choose the "Open With" option. Then click "Choose another app" to continue the process;
  2. Choose Lotus 1-2-3 from the available applications listed in the pop-up window to set it as the default application to open your WKU file;
  3. Be sure to check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to confirm your selection.

Change the default app for a file type in Mac

  1. Initiate a right click or use Control + left click on the desired WKU file to open a menu where you can select various actions;
  2. Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
  3. Scroll down to the bottom of the window, and there you will find the "Enable" menu. The default selection is "Recommended Programs";
  4. Choose "All Programs" within this menu and locate Lotus 1-2-3. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default program.

How to edit a WKU file?

To edit WKU files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify spreadsheet files. Online WKU editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for Lotus 1-2-3 Spreadsheet.

Best WKU editors in 2026

Based on your described criteria, here is a list of available WKU editors.

WKU Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
Lotus 1-2-3IBMWindows4.4 out of 5 (41 review)

Tips and tricks to solve problems with WKU files

WKU files can sometimes be tricky, but minor software adjustments usually resolve the issues. Refer to the tips below for guidance.

Are there any symptoms that my WKU file is damaged?

Corrupted WKU spreadsheet files may have one or more of the following symptoms:

  • File hangs or crashes in Lotus 1-2-3 or other programs;
  • Error dialogs are displayed when interacting with the file;
  • The file does not open or opens with errors;
  • Unexplained increase in WKU file size;
  • Poor performance when editing a file in Lotus 1-2-3;

Why does Lotus 1-2-3 crash or shut down frequently?

The absence of software updates can cause Lotus 1-2-3 to crash. It is recommended to install the latest available updates for IBM products.

Restarting your computer is an essential troubleshooting step that can resolve many common problems. It is recommended to restart your computer before making any changes to the software settings.

Is there any specific software or utility that can help repair a damaged WKU file?

Start a data recovery program and open the damaged WKU file. Go to the menu and select the "Repair" option to repair the file. Then wait for the recovery process to complete, which allows you to automatically repair corrupted spreadsheet files.