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Basic information about XLNK file

When there is a problem with opening files with the file extension XLNK（*.XLNK or *.xlnk）, you do not need a computer expert. In most cases, using the helpful suggestions of experts contained in our website as well as appropriate programs, you can solve the problem with the XLNK file yourself.

There are 1 file types using the XLNK file extension in our database. In the further part of this page, you will find detail information about all the XLNK file with their brief description and a list of programs that support XLNK file sorted by operating systems. The table below provides useful information about the XLNK file extension. It answers questions such as:
  • What is the XLNK file?
  • How to open a XLNK file?
  • What programs do I need to open a XLNK file?
  • What programs help to create and edit a XLNK file?
  • How to convert XLNK files to another file format?
  • How to convert another files to XLNK file format?


1.Detail information about XLNK file extension: XML Shortcut File

File type XML Shortcut File Category Misc Files
Developer N/A File format XML
Description XLNK file is a XML Shortcut File. Shortcut or "link" to another file that uses XML formatting; similar to a .LNK file, but can used on multiple platforms due to its XML-based structure; contains the path to the target file within the "TargetFile" tag in the XML.
Software programs that will open, edit or convert XLNK files

Windows		 XLNK_launcher
Microsoft Office

Linux		 XLNK_launcher



Can't open a XLNK file?

When you click a file to open it, operating system examines the filename extension. If operating system recognizes the filename extension, it opens the file in the program that is associated with that filename extension. When operating system does not recognize a filename extension, you receive the following message:

”Can't open this file: example.XLNK”。

To open this file, you install one of the applications from the list of software programs that you found here, you should be able to open, edit or convert the file with the XLNK extension without any issue.


Where I can download the application that support XLNK file?

If you do not know where you can download the application from our list, click on the link (which is the name of the program), you will find more information there on the location where to download the required application. Most often they are the websites of software manufacturers.


How to change file associations?

  • Right-click a file with the extension whose association you want to change, and then click "Open With".
  • In the "Open With" dialog box, click the program whith which you want the file to open, or click "Browse" to locate the program that you want.
  • Select the ”Always use the selected program to open this kind of file” check box.


Can I change the extension of XLNK files?

Changing the filename extension of a file is not a good idea. When you change a file's extension, you change the way programs on your computer read/open the file. The problem is, changing the file extension does not change the file format. Select a software program from our list and install it on your computer. If the file has not opened correctly, you have to look for a different software program from our list. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.


What else may cause problems width open a XLNK file?

The reasons for the lack of the ability to open a XLNK file on your computer may be at least several. The easiest thing is to find a suitable application installed on your computer, which will open a XLNK file. If there is still something wrong, you might want to check:

  • Whether the XLNK file is damaged.
  • Whether the XLNK file is incorrectly linked in the registry entries.
  • Whether the XLNK file extension has been accidentally removed from the Windows registry.
  • Whether the installation of an application that supports the XLNK file format is incompletely.
  • Whether the XLNK file is infected.
  • Whether the drivers of the equipment used for opening a XLNK file are up to date.
  • Whether your computer has enough hardware resources to open a XLNK file.

If the XLNK file still not working with your software after eliminating the above shortcomings? That means that the problem is more complex and requires the help of a specialist.