What Is an XML File?

An XML file is an Extensible Markup Language file.

AnRSS feedis one common example of an XML-based file.

xml listing

Some XML files are instead Cinelerra Video Project files used with the Cinelerra video editing program.

Several popular programs edit XML files as well.

Some notable free XML editors include Notepad++ and XML Notepad 2007.

Microsoft’s popularVisual Studio Codeeditor handles XML files like a champ.

Just because an XML file can easily be opened and viewed doesn’t mean that it’lldoanything.

For example, the XML format is used forMusicXMLfiles, an XML-based sheet music format.

The dedicated XML editors mentioned above are better for editing XML files because they understand the file’s structure.

A standard text editor isn’t quite as easy to use for editing XML files.

Cinelerra Video Project files that use the XML file extension can be opened with theCinelerrasoftware forLinux.

However, you gain nothing from this switch other than just changing the file extension.

Of course, an XML-to-JSON converter is only helpful if that’s what you’re after.

An actual file format conversion using one of the methods described above must take place in most cases.

However, since XML is text-based, renaming the extension might be helpful in some situations.

you’re able to see an XML sample file on Microsoft’s website.

Microsoft offers a detailed explanation of the benefits of using these XML-based file types.

Some other XML-based file types includeEDS, XSPF,FDX, SEARCH-MS,CMBL, utility, andDAEfiles.

W3Schoolshaslotsof information on XML files if you’re looking for a detailed look at how to work with them.

FAQ

From within Excel, selectFile > Open, and choose your XML file.

In the following pop-up, selectAs an XML table.

This will display your XML file as a table within Excel.

Though, not every XML file will work well being displayed as a table.

Within Word, selectFile > Open, and choose your XML file.

This will kick off the file in Word.