Why can't I open Excel spreadsheets that were saved in vista on my XP computer even after updates?

Question

I downloaded the compatabililty update on Microsofts site and it still doesn't work. I have no problem opening it on the other computer. The error message says that it's not a compatible format. Any Ideas?

Answer 1

Software is usually downward mobile, not upward. Example, Office 2003 can open Office 97, but Office 97 cannot open Office 2003.

When I open an earlier version and try to save, I receive a warning that unless I save in an earlier version, some formatting will be lost and asks if I want to proceed ...

Open a Word document and check Tools, Options to see if there is an option someplace to save files in an earlier version - or - when you File, Save As, click the down-arrow next to filetype and see if you can save to an earlier version.