What is an XLA file?
A file with .xla extension is a Microsoft Excel Add-Ins file format that adds modules, extra functions, and other tools to Microsoft Excel. The Ad-Ins provide additional functionality to Excel spreadsheets and are supported in version 2007 or later. XLA files have mime media type application/vnd.ms-excel. These can be opened using Microsoft Excel that is available for Windows as well as MacOS.
Why XLA Add-In is used?
An XLA file is quite useful when you want Excel to do more than just basic math and charts. It works like a plugin that gives Excel extra powers such as custom formulas, automation tools, or even buttons that perform tasks with one click. For example, if you do the same steps every day in Excel, an XLA add-in can help you automate them to save time. Many businesses and advanced users rely on XLA files to improve their workflow and make Excel smarter without needing to write new code from scratch.
XLA File Format
XLA files are based on binary data format. However, further information about its file format specifications are not available. General assumption is that XLA follow the [MS-XLS] - Excel Binary File Format Structure.
