DOC file extension

The DOC file extension is most often associated with documents created in Microsoft Word, the famous software program for creating and processing text that comes with all Microsoft Office suite versions. This file format is the default for Microsoft Word 97-2003, whereas newer MS Word (2007+) versions prompt users to save docs in DOCX format.

What's inside a DOC file

The DOC file was first developed in WordPerfect, which was widely used in the 1980s, but the DOC extension has been on everyone's lips since Microsoft Word appeared in the 1990s. Today, it's the most common format for text documents.

Previously, DOC files contained formatted text only. Over time, it has become possible to add many embedded objects, such as tables and charts from other applications, sounds, videos, and images.

DOC conversion

To convert DOC to PDF, you can use any online DOC converter or program, such as Convertin.io. 

How to open a DOC file

DOC files can be opened with the latest versions of standard word processing applications such as Microsoft Word and LibreOffice Writer. You can also use Windows Wordpad to open DOC files, although formatting is extremely limited. Since Microsoft Office 2007, DOCX has been the default format, but it won't open in earlier versions of word processing programs without a compatibility package.

Microsoft Word (version 97 and higher) is the primary software program for opening DOC files. However, users have to pay for it (unless you use a free trial version of MS Office). Still, several free alternatives support DOC files, such as Kingsoft Writer, LibreOffice Writer. and OpenOffice Writer. You can use them to open, edit, and save DOC files while retaining the format. The two first word processors can also save DOC files in the new Microsoft DOCX format. A Microsoft Word file can also be opened online using Google Docs.