ABW File Type

- The quick facts

What are ABW files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening an ABW file or just wondering what they contain? We explain what these files are used for and show you software that we know can open or otherwise handle your files.

What is an ABW file?

An .ABW file is an AbiWord Document file.

Files that contain the .abw file extension are most commonly associated with the AbiWord word processing software application. AbiWord is a free word processing software that has been created by the AbiSource software community.

The ABW file format is the default document format for the AbiWord word processing software, and the format is based on XML. The ABW file format allows for advanced document layouts, rich text formatting, lists, tables, images, and footnotes. ABW files are similar in nature to Microsoft Word DOC files; however, unlike Microsoft Word files, the AbiWord program can run on almost any computer operating system. AbiWord has the option to save documents in compressed form, too, in which case they use file extension ZABW.

How to open ABW files

We have identified one ABW opener that is compatible with this specific type of ABW file.

Programs that open AbiWord Document files

Last updated: December 15, 2021

Suggest another file format using extension ABW

While we know of one file format using the .ABW file extension, there may be more. It is widespread that different programs use files with the same file extension for very different types of data. Please let us know if you are aware of a different kind of .ABW file.

Various apps that use files with this extension

These apps are known to open certain types of ABW files. Remember, different programs may use ABW files for different purposes, so you may need to try out a few of them to be able to open your specific file.