How do you get your computer to open excel when you do not have excel?

[#1]

I have been sent some information on a excel spreadsheet - .xls.  I do not have excel but have Ability Office Suite.  Have tried to input the folder type into Folder Options but does not seem to want to know!  Have no problems with "word" as Ability changes it without asking!
Any useful polite suggestions welcome!
Thank you.

[#2]

The free open office will open .XLS files, I think that Microsoft also do a file viewer, but you cant edit it
Just google excel viewer, for which one you want - all genuine M$

[#3]

Excel viewer, free from Microsoft.
Also available - Word viewer etc. etc.
Just make sure when you Google that you use the real Microsoft download site.

[#4]

Thank you for the suggestions - have found the view on the MS site and have downloaded it!  and it works!
Glad I posted the question!  Should have thought about that though as I did go to MS to get a Powerpoint viewer!

[#5]

Powerpoint viewer is not quite the same concept if you think about it...

[#6]

Grrr Powerpoint!
Actually, nothing against Powerpoint, more against the users - so many seem unable to save finished presentations as .pps files rather than the works-in-progress .ppt type.
Just another insight into the angry world of an IT Manager - thats all folks...

[#7]

Quote from: James_H

Actually, nothing against Powerpoint

Why not? What's wrong with you? 
It's a pathetic alternative to proper effective communication. Almost anything else is better.

[#8]

Quote from: HPsauce

It's a pathetic alternative to proper effective communication. Almost anything else is better.

Only because poor communicators use it as a replacement for proper preparation, and communication.  If used as a tool it's perfectly acceptable.
John

[#9]

Indeed, part of the problem is that it's the only tool that exists for many people and in many (most?) cases there are others much more appropriate.

[#10]

Quote from: James_H

so many seem unable to save finished presentations as .pps files rather than the works-in-progress .ppt type.

Just right click and "Show"