XLM File Extension
Excel Macro
- File Type xlm
- Developer Microsoft
- Popularity
- Application Microsoft Excel
- Category Developer Files, Data Files
- Format Binary
What is a XLM file?
The XLM file extension is linked to Excel Macro and belongs to the categories of Developer Files and Data Files, which include 7362 files.
The Excel Macro (XLM) was developed by Microsoft, which created file format and 242 programs to work with them.
XLM files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS and Linux. To open a XLM file, you can choose from 3 programs such as Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Visual Studio and Microsoft Office.
MIME types
- application/excel
- application/vnd.ms-excel
- application/x-excel
Programs that support XLM files
How to open a XLM file?
If you cannot open a XLM file, it is most often due to missing software. Select a program from the list according to your operating system. Then go to the official website of the program developer, download it, and install it on your device.
Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Visual Studio and Microsoft Office are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with XLM files. To set up the newest version of Microsoft Excel on your device, simply go to the official Microsoft website. There you can download the edition compatible with every operating system.
Once installed, Microsoft Excel will be set as the default program, and XLM files will open automatically.
Set Microsoft Excel to open XLM by default
Setting a default program by file type in Windows
- Right click on your XLM file, then select "Open with" and click "Choose another application";
- 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 XLM files.
Change default apps on Mac
- Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired XLM file to access the file’s context menu;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- At the bottom of the window, find the "Enable" menu, where "Recommended Programs" is already selected by default;
- Within this menu, select "All Programs" and then locate Microsoft Excel. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default program.
How to edit a XLM file?
Editing XLM files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit developer files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated Excel Macro programs.
Best XLM editors in 2026
Considering the mentioned criteria, we have compiled a list of XLM editors that may suit your needs.
| XLM Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Visual Studio | Microsoft | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.7 out of 5 (40 reviews) |
| Microsoft Excel | Microsoft | Windows, Mac OS, Apple iOS, Android | 4.4 out of 5 (41 review) |
Easy XLM Troubleshooting
Certain problems with XLM files can be conveniently fixed with small software tweaks. Here are some helpful tips to address them.
What are the steps to repair a damaged XLM file?
Open the corrupted XLM file in a recovery program and select the "Repair" menu item. Please be patient while the recovery process completes, which will automatically restore the damaged developer files.
How do I know if my XLM file is corrupted?
Corrupted XLM developer files may show the following signs:
- Attempts to open the file result in errors or failed results;
- Editing the archive in Microsoft Excel is accompanied by slow performance or delays;
- The file causes Microsoft Excel or other programs to hang or crash during operation;
- Unexplained increase in XLM file size;
- Error messages appear while working with the file;
What are the reasons behind Microsoft Excel crash?
The likely cause of Microsoft Excel crashing is lack of software updates. Install the latest updates available 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.