Windows
Compatible applications
Quick Facts
Basic information about this file format
Extension
.CSV
File Type
Comma Separated Values
Category
Data
Best first step
Use compatible software
Quick Summary
A practical overview of the .csv file format
A CSV (Comma Separated Values) file is a plain text file that stores tabular data (numbers and text) in a simple, structured format. Each line of the file represents a row in the table, and the values within each row are separated by commas. While the name suggests commas are the only delimiter, ot…
File extension
.CSV
File type
Comma Separated Values
Category
Data
Recommended action
Open with a trusted compatible app
How to open a .csv file
Start with a trusted app that supports this format
- Check the file extension carefully and confirm that the file name really ends with .csv.
- Use software that supports this file type. If one app does not work, try another compatible program for the same platform.
- Update the application if the file was created by a newer version of the software.
- Scan files from unknown sources before opening them, especially documents, archives, scripts, installers, and executable files.
What is a .csv file?
File extension details and usage information
A CSV (Comma Separated Values) file is a plain text file that stores tabular data (numbers and text) in a simple, structured format. Each line of the file represents a row in the table, and the values within each row are separated by commas. While the name suggests commas are the only delimiter, other delimiters like semicolons, tabs, or spaces are also commonly used, especially in regions where commas are used as decimal separators. CSV files are widely used for data exchange between different applications and systems because of their simplicity and platform independence. They are easily created and read by spreadsheet programs, database applications, and programming languages. The lack of formatting and complex data structures makes them efficient for storing and transferring large datasets. However, this simplicity also means that CSV files do not support features like multiple worksheets, formulas, or formatting, which are available in more complex spreadsheet formats. The first row often contains column headers, providing a description of the data in each column, but this is not a strict requirement. CSV files are a fundamental tool for data management and analysis.
Software Compatibility
Programs that may open or work with .csv files
macOS
Compatible applications
Linux
Compatible applications
Mobile
Mobile applications
Can .csv files be converted?
Options for saving or exporting this file to another format
In many cases, a .csv file can be converted by opening it in compatible software and using an option such as Save As, Export, or Convert. The available output formats depend on the file type and the application used.
- Use the original software that created the file when possible.
- Check whether the application supports exporting to common formats.
- Be careful with online converters when working with private, business, or sensitive files.
- If conversion fails, the file may be corrupted, incomplete, encrypted, or not actually a .csv file.
Why can't I open a .csv file?
Common reasons this file type may not open correctly
Wrong software
The file may require a specific program that supports the .csv format.
Incorrect extension
The file extension may have been renamed manually, even though the actual file format is different.
Corrupted file
The file may be incomplete, damaged during download, or transferred incorrectly.
Outdated app
Your software may need to be updated before it can open newer versions of this file format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about .csv files
To open a .csv file, use software that supports this file format.
- Microsoft Excel
- LibreOffice Calc
- OpenOffice Calc
- Google Sheets (via web browser)
- Notepad
Open the file in compatible software and look for options such as Save As, Export, or Convert. If no export option is available, the file may require a specialized converter or the original application that created it.
- Verify that the file extension is correct.
- Install or update compatible software.
- Try another application that supports this format.
- Check whether the file is corrupted, incomplete, or encrypted.
A file extension alone does not guarantee whether a file is safe or unsafe. Only open files from trusted sources, scan unknown files before opening them, and be especially careful with executable, script, archive, and document files.
File safety tips
Use caution with unknown files
Only open files from trusted sources. Before opening a .csv file, scan it with antivirus software, verify that the file extension is expected, and avoid running unknown executable, installer, macro-enabled document, or script files.