What is a DOCX file? [+ How to Open and Use]

What is a DOCX file?

A DOCX file is a Microsoft Word document which is based on the Open XML format. This type of file is integral for creating, editing, and sharing documents containing text, images, charts, or even complex formatting options. The functionality of DOCX is essential for businesses needing to create professional documents such as reports, proposals, and contracts.

Open XML format has revolutionized the working of Microsoft Word by adding new features and capabilities. It not only improved the efficiency of the product but also enhanced file security. For instance, Open XML files are less prone to corruption and easier to recover, which can save your business a lot of time and effort.

What are DOCX files for?

DOCX files serve an array of functional needs for businesses. From creating proposals to drafting meeting minutes, a DOCX file can be used for a variety of tasks. The introduction of cloud-based platforms like Office365 allows for creating DOCX files online in a collaborative environment with many people at once (similar to Google Docs).

The format's adaptability and compatibility make it a universally accepted standard for documents. Whether it is contracts, agreements, or even simple letters, the DOCX file format is a standard choice.

How to Open DOCX files?

Various programs can open DOCX files. Microsoft Word is the primary application designed to open and modify these files. But if, Word isn't available, other alternatives will work just fine.

Google Docs is a popular choice for opening DOCX files due to its free and accessible nature. Similarly, the LibreOffice Writer and Apache's OpenOffice Writer are both free software that can handle this file format.

Apple Pages, a free and standard application pre-installed on Mac, also supports DOCX files.

Finally, if you need quick access without software, online conversion tools like File Viewer Plus allow you to view and manage DOCX files in your web browser.

What other file types are related to DOCX files?

• DOC files - Microsoft Word Document (Legacy)
• RTF files - Known as Rich Text Format, used by Word and others
• TXT files - Standard text files, readable by nearly every text editing program

How to Open a DOCX File on Mac

If you're using a Mac, you can use Pages to open DOCX files. This application comes installed on all new Macs. It means you can double-click on the DOCX file, and it should open in Pages. This provides you a simple and quick method to access these files on your Mac.

Otherwise, you can always use an online solution like Google Docs to open DOCX files.

How to Print a DOCX File

After opening the document in an application, such as Microsoft Word or Pages (on macOS), head towards the "File" option on the taskbar.

Within the "File" dropdown, you'll see an option for "Print". Selecting this option should display a dialogue box where you can fine-tune your printing settings. After finalizing your settings, proceed with clicking on "Print". That's it! Your DOCX file should begin printing right away.

Opening a DOCX File in a Linux Terminal

To open a DOCX file in a Linux terminal, you'll need tools such as Catdoc or LibreOffice, which are capable of opening these proprietary files.

For example, to use Catdoc, you first need to install it. This can be done (on Ubuntu) by entering sudo apt-get install catdoc into the terminal. Once installed, you can then use the command catdoc filename.docx to view the content of the DOCX file in the terminal.

DOC vs DOCX: What is the Difference?

The DOC and DOCX formats might appear similar to the casual observer. However, they are distinct in several ways.

DOC files were the default document format used in Microsoft Word before the 2007 version. They use binary file format. This format is less compatible with other software but maintains excellent backward compatibility with previous versions of Microsoft Word.

DOCX files are the standard format for document files starting from Microsoft Word 2007. Noteworthy is its usage of Office Open XML, a file format based on XML. This format is more efficient and shows significant improvements in data management and file size. It also provides better interoperability between different office suite software. However, DOCX files are not compatible with older versions of Microsoft Word.

Both formats have their strengths, reflecting the needs and technology available at their inception. Understand what these formats offer is crucial in determining the most suitable one for your business operations.