Home  /  File formats  /  docx

DOCX file format

Extension.docx
Categorydocuments
Programs
Microsoft Office
LibreOffice
Kingsoft Office
Google Docs
Main programMicrosoft Office
Description.docx The .docx format is the default file format for documents created in Microsoft Word starting with Word 007 and later versions. It's part of the Office Open XML specification and uses XML and ZIP compression for smaller file sizesThe .docx format supports text, images, styling, and complex document formatting. Being more modern and open compared to the older .doc format, it has become the standard for word processing documents in many environments.
Technical detailsThe `.docx` format, launched with Microsoft Office 2007, replaces the older `.doc` format in Microsoft Word. It's based on the Office Open XML standard, using XML to detail document structure and content, making it more transparent and easier to process. `.docx` files are zip archives containing XML files and resources, with folders like 'word', 'docProps', and 'rels' for text, properties, and relationships. Main text is in `document.xml`, with separate files like `styles.xml` for styling and directories for embedded media. This format enhances interoperability, reduces file sizes, and improves corruption recovery. It's supported by most modern word processors, with Microsoft offering compatibility packs for older Word versions. For security, macros are in a separate `.docm` file. `.docx` is a step forward in document format technology, emphasizing openness, interoperability, and efficient data management.
MIME type
application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document