What is .docx?
.docx is the default file format for Microsoft Word documents created in Word 2007 and later. It uses Open XML formatting to store text, images, objects, and styles in a compressed ZIP-based container, making files smaller and more robust than the older .doc format.
This quick guide explains when to use .docx files, how to open them on any device, and how to share them instantly with FileXhost.
When to use .docx files
- You are writing reports, essays, resumes, or letters.
- You need to collaborate on documents with features like track changes and comments.
- You want a file format that is editable and compatible with most modern word processors.
How to open .docx files
DOCX files open natively in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Apple Pages, and LibreOffice. You can also upload .docx files to FileXhost to view them directly in the browser without needing any software installed.
Algorithm details
The .docx format is based on the Office Open XML standard (OOXML). Unlike the binary .doc format, a .docx file is actually a compressed ZIP archive containing multiple XML files (document.xml, styles.xml, etc.) and media resources. This XML structure makes the files smaller, safer (no macros by default), and easier for other applications to read.
Browser & platform support
- Desktop: Not natively supported by browsers for direct rendering without plugins, but viewable via online viewers (Google Drive, Office Online, FileXhost).
- Mobile: Supported via apps like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or built-in system viewers on iOS/Android.
- OS: Native support via WordPad (Windows 7+), TextEdit (macOS), and dedicated office suites.
Format comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| File Size | Smaller than older .doc files due to XML compression (ZIP). |
| Compatibility | Supported by almost all word processors (Word, Google Docs, LibreOffice, Pages). |
| Editability | Designed for editing and formatting, unlike PDF. |
| Security | Safer than .doc because it cannot contain VBA macros (macros require .docm). |
How to create docx files
- Word Processors: Microsoft Word, Google Docs (Download as .docx), LibreOffice Writer.
- Mobile Apps: Word for iOS/Android, Pages.
- Online Converters: Convert PDF or other text formats to DOCX.
How to convert docx files
- FileXhost: Upload to view online or share.
- Microsoft Word: Save as PDF, HTML, or RTF.
- Google Docs: Upload and edit, then download as PDF or EPUB.
- CLI: Pandoc (powerful document converter).
Advantages & disadvantages
Advantages
- Industry standard for editable documents
- Compact file size compared to legacy .doc
- Rich formatting capabilities (tables, images, charts)
- Wide compatibility across platforms and apps
- Repairable structure (XML-based)
Disadvantages
- Layout can shift slightly between different software versions
- Requires specific software to edit (unlike plain text)
- Not ideal for final publishing if layout must be pixel-perfect (use PDF)
Tools & software
Viewers
Microsoft Word Viewer, Google Docs, FileXhost, LibreOffice
Editors
Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Apple Pages, WPS Office
Converters
CloudConvert, Zamzar, Smallpdf, Pandoc
Libraries
python-docx, Mammoth.js, Apache POI (Java)
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between .doc and .docx?
.doc is the older binary format used by Word 97-2003. .docx is the newer XML-based format used by Word 2007 and later. .docx is smaller, safer, and more compatible with other apps.
How do I open a DOCX file without Word?
You can use free alternatives like Google Docs (upload the file), LibreOffice, or Apple Pages. You can also use FileXhost to view the document online without installing anything.
Can I convert DOCX to PDF?
Yes, almost all word processors allow you to 'Save As' or 'Export' to PDF. This is recommended for sending final versions of documents to ensure the layout doesn't change.
Are DOCX files safe?
Generally, yes. Unlike .doc files, standard .docx files cannot contain macro viruses. Macros must be saved in a separate .docm format.
Technical specs
- File type
- Document
- Extension
- .docx
- MIME type
- application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document
- Compression
- Lossless
- Max file size on FileXhost
- Up to 25 MB per file on the free plan and up to 1 GB on Pro FileXhost accounts.
Share .docx files instantly
Upload your .docx file to FileXhost to get a clean, shareable URL in seconds. View the file in a modern browser, protect access with optional settings, and let others download it without any confusing ads or cluttered file pages.
Upload .docx file