XAR File Extension

Xara Xtreme Drawing
- File Type xar
- Developer MAGIX
- Popularity
- Application Microsoft Excel
- Category Backup Files, Data Files
- Format Binary
What is a XAR file?
Xara Xtreme Drawing works with the XAR file extension and is classified under Backup Files and Data Files, with a total of 6591 files.
With the creation of the Xara Xtreme Drawing (XAR), MAGIX introduced file format along with 16 programs built for their use.
XAR file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS and Linux. You can open a XAR file using one of 3 programs, for example Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office and Microsoft 365.
Programs that support XAR files
How to open a XAR file?
The most common reason why a XAR file cannot be opened is the absence of required software. To fix this, select a compatible program from the list. Then visit the official developer website via the provided link, download the program, and install it on your system.
When it comes to opening and working with XAR files, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office and Microsoft 365 are the top choices for users. To install the updated version of Microsoft Excel, simply go to the Microsoft site and download the installer compatible with all major platforms.
After installing, your OS should instantly open XAR files with Microsoft Excel.
Set Microsoft Excel to open XAR by default
Changing Default Programs in Windows
- Start by right-clicking on your XAR file and selecting the "Open With" option. From there, click "Choose another app" to continue;
- Find the Microsoft Excel application in the pop-up window and select it as your preferred program;
- Select the "Always use this application" check box and click "OK" to save your selection as the default application for opening XAR files.
Change default apps on Mac
- Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired XAR file to access the file’s context menu;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Look towards the bottom of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. "Recommended programs" will be the default selection;
- Choose "All Programs" in this menu and search for Microsoft Excel. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default option.
Convert to and from XAR
If obstacles arise while working with a XAR file, you may convert it to formats like ZIP, XLSX or other similar types for smoother handling.
Keep in mind that converting a XAR file may introduce some limitations, but the original format can often be restored.
Convert XAR to other file formats
Easy XAR Troubleshooting
Problematic XAR files can usually be resolved by making small changes in your software. See the tips below to help fix common issues.
Why does Microsoft Excel stop responding or crash intermittently?
Microsoft Excel crashes can be attributed to outdated software. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for Microsoft products.
Restarting your computer is often an effective solution to resolve various common problems. Therefore, it is recommended to do so before making any changes to the software configuration.
What are the best practices for repairing a XAR file that has gone bad?
Use Microsoft Excel or Microsoft Office to open the damaged XAR file and select the "Repair" function from the menu. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged backup files.
What are the signs that my XAR file is damaged?
Common indications of damaged XAR backup files are:
- Opening or processing the file in Microsoft Excel or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
- The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the XAR file;
- Working with the file triggers the display of error messages;






