Windows
Compatible applications
Quick Facts
Basic information about this file format
Extension
.DOCX
File Type
Microsoft Word Open XML Document
Category
Document
Best first step
Use compatible software
Quick Summary
A practical overview of the .docx file format
The DOCX file extension represents a Microsoft Word Open XML Document. Introduced with Microsoft Office 2007, it's the default file format for saving documents created in Microsoft Word. DOCX files store formatted text, images, tables, charts, and other document elements. The format is based on XML…
File extension
.DOCX
File type
Microsoft Word Open XML Document
Category
Document
Recommended action
Open with a trusted compatible app
How to open a .docx file
Start with a trusted app that supports this format
- Check the file extension carefully and confirm that the file name really ends with .docx.
- 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- Update the application if the file was created by a newer version of the software.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 .docx file?
File extension details and usage information
The DOCX file extension represents a Microsoft Word Open XML Document. Introduced with Microsoft Office 2007, it's the default file format for saving documents created in Microsoft Word. DOCX files store formatted text, images, tables, charts, and other document elements. The format is based on XML and ZIP compression, making it more compact and less prone to corruption compared to older DOC formats. This open standard allows for better interoperability with other applications and operating systems. DOCX files support a wide range of features, including advanced formatting options, macros (though these can pose security risks if not handled carefully), and collaboration tools like track changes and comments. The format's structure allows for easier recovery of data in case of file corruption, as the document is essentially a collection of XML files within a compressed archive. The use of XML also makes it easier for developers to programmatically manipulate DOCX files. It is widely used for creating and sharing documents across various platforms and devices.
Software Compatibility
Programs that may open or work with .docx files
macOS
Compatible applications
Linux
Compatible applications
Mobile
Mobile applications
Can .docx files be converted?
Options for saving or exporting this file to another format
In many cases, a .docx 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 .docx file.
Why can't I open a .docx file?
Common reasons this file type may not open correctly
Wrong software
The file may require a specific program that supports the .docx 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 .docx files
To open a .docx file, use software that supports this file format.
- Microsoft Word
- LibreOffice Writer
- OpenOffice Writer
- WPS Office Writer
- Google Docs (via web browser)
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 .docx 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.