Can't download windows 7 xls file to windows XP

[blackbird3]

I have Windows XP and need to download an important xls. file someone sent me in windows 7 format. When I get to the file and hit download I get an error message and to dismiss. It doesn't give me the option to save the file. Please help....

 

[Layback Bear]

I do believe that xls files are Microsoft Excel files and you will need Excel or a 3rd party program that will open Excel files.

 

[UsernameIssues]

...an important xls. file someone sent me in windows 7 format.

There is not a Windows 7 format for an XLS file. You might be dealing with an XLSX file format... but the next part of your post makes it sound like you are getting an error before you ever get the file to your computer:

When I get to the file and hit download I get an error message and to dismiss. It doesn't give me the option to save the file. Please help....

Please post a screenshot of that error message using these steps:
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/9733-screenshots-files-upload-post-seven-forums.html


edit:
Keep this link handy in case you cannot open the XLS file once it is saved:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=10

 

[blackbird3]

Thanks for your time, I'll try your idea