DOCX File

What are DOCX files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening a DOCX 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 a DOCX file?

A .DOCX file is a Microsoft Word Open XML Format document file.

.docx is the file extension for files created by Microsoft Word 2007 and later, as opposed to earlier versions that used the binary .doc file format. These files are based on the Office Open XML format and are used for storing documents that include text, formatting, images, and other content. They are typically used for creating and editing documents such as letters, reports, and resumes and are widely used in personal and professional settings.

One of the advantages of .docx files is that they can be opened and edited by various programs, including Microsoft Word, and several free and paid alternatives, such as Google Docs, LibreOffice, and OpenOffice. This makes them a convenient and widely compatible format for sharing and collaborating on documents.

In addition to basic text and formatting, .docx files support features such as tables, lists, hyperlinks, and embedded media. They can also be password-protected for added security.

What is the difference between .DOC and .DOCX files?

.DOC is the file extension for files created by Microsoft Word 97-2003, while .DOCX is the file extension for files created by Microsoft Word 2007 and later. The main difference between the two file types is how they are saved and encoded.

DOC files are saved in a proprietary binary format, meaning they can only be opened and edited using Microsoft Word or a program compatible with the .DOC format. On the other hand, DOCX files are saved in the Office Open XML format, an open standard that a wide range of software programs can read.

This makes .DOCX files more flexible and easier to share with others, as they can be opened and edited by various programs. Regarding the content of the documents, there is generally no significant difference between .DOC and .DOCX files.

Both file types can contain text, formatting, images, and other types of content. However, .DOCX files may support some additional features and formatting options unavailable in .DOC files.

How to open DOCX files

We have identified eight DOCX openers that are compatible with this specific type of DOCX file.

Programs that open Microsoft Word Open XML Format document files

Last updated: January 22, 2023

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