The difference between xls and xlsx

The difference between xls and xlsx: 1. File structure, XLS files are stored in binary format, while XLSX files are based on the XML file format of the open document standard, and the data is stored in a hierarchical structure; 2. File Size, since XLS files are stored in binary format, the file size is relatively large, while XLSX files use a more efficient compression algorithm, and the file size is usually much smaller than the XLS format; 3. Compatibility and interoperability; 4. Function and compatibility.

#Introduction: When we use computers to process documents in daily office work, we often encounter two common file formats, namely XLS and XLSX. This article will explore the differences between the two formats and analyze the impact of their evolution on file storage and usage.

1. Definition of file format

XLS and XLSX are both file formats in the Microsoft Excel spreadsheet application. XLS is the file format used by earlier versions of Excel, while XLSX is the new file format mainly used in Excel 2007 and later versions. There are some important differences in storage and data management between the two file formats.

2. The difference between file formats

1. File structure

XLS files are stored in binary format, which means that all data It is stored in the form of binary code and is not easily recognized and processed by other programs. The XLSX file is an XML file format based on the Open Document Standard (Open XML). The data is stored in a hierarchical structure and can be interpreted and edited by other software.

2. File size

Since XLS files are stored in binary format, the file size is relatively large. XLSX files use a more efficient compression algorithm, and with the same amount of data, the file size is usually much smaller than the XLS format.

3. Compatibility and Interoperability

XLS format files are less interoperable between different spreadsheet applications because the format is proprietary and due to its Binary structure, other software may not be able to read the data correctly. The XLSX format is relatively easier to share and transfer between different software because it is based on open document standards.

4. Function and compatibility

The XLSX format provides more functions and scalability. Compared with the XLS file format, XLSX supports a larger number of rows and columns and can store more data in a worksheet. In addition, XLSX also supports more data types, chart types and external links, providing richer data processing and display functions.

3. The impact of file format evolution

1. Storage efficiency improvement

The use of XLSX file format makes Excel become less efficient when storing large amounts of data. More efficient. By using compression algorithms and hierarchical XML structures, XLSX files can reduce storage space while maintaining data integrity.

2. Increased convenience of data sharing and communication

Since XLSX is a format based on open document standards, more software and applications can read and edit files in this format. This makes it easier to share and communicate data between different platforms and software.

3. Data security improvement

XLSX format files have higher data security. Through a layered structure, data and style information are stored separately, reducing the risk of malware attacks. In addition, XLSX also supports a password protection mechanism to further protect data security.

4. Software compatibility challenges

Although the widespread adoption of the XLSX format has improved the convenience of data sharing and communication, users of older versions of Excel may need to make some adjustments. New format efforts. Older versions of Excel may not be able to open and edit XLSX files directly, and you need to upgrade to the latest version of Excel or use other compatibility tools.

Conclusion:

XLS and XLSX are spreadsheet file formats used by different versions of Excel. Although the XLS format was widely used in the past, the emergence of XLSX provides higher storage efficiency, better data sharing and communication convenience, and better data security. Although users of older versions of Excel may need to adapt to the new format, the popularity of XLSX has brought more convenience and benefits to the use of spreadsheet applications.

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