DOC File Extension
Microsoft Word Document
- File Type doc
- Developer Microsoft
- Popularity
- Application Microsoft Word
- Category Data Files, Document Files
- Format Binary
What is a DOC file?
The DOC extension is used by Microsoft Word Document and falls under the categories of Data Files and Document Files, covering 7165 files.
Microsoft, the developer of the Microsoft Word Document (DOC), has released file format and 242 programs designed to handle them.
DOC files are compatible with various operating systems, including Mac OS, Windows and Linux as well as mobile platforms such as Android, Windows Phone and Apple iOS. There are 21 programs available to open a DOC file, including popular tools like Microsoft Word, AbiWord and OpenOffice Writer.
MIME types
- application/x-msword
- application/winword
- application/doc
- application/msword
- application/x-msw6
- appl/text
- application/word
- application/vnd.msword
- application/vnd.ms-word
Programs that support DOC files
Windows
Apple iOS
Windows Phone
How to open a DOC file?
If you are having trouble opening a DOC file, it usually means the right software is not installed. Choose a program from the list that matches your operating system. Next, visit the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it on your device.
Microsoft Word, AbiWord and OpenOffice Writer are among the most widely used programs for handling DOC files. To set up the newest version of Microsoft Word on your device, simply go to the official Microsoft website. There you can download the edition compatible with every operating system.
After setup, the operating system should recognize DOC files and link them with Microsoft Word.
Setting Microsoft Word as default DOC viewer
Change the default app for a file type in Mac
- Initiate a right click or use Control + left click on the desired DOC file to open a menu where you can select various actions;
- Choose "Open in Application" and click "Other";
- Scroll down to the bottom of the window, and there you will find the "Enable" menu. The default selection is "Recommended Programs";
- Choose "All Programs" within this menu and locate Microsoft Word. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default program.
Change default programs in Windows
- To get started, right-click your DOC file, then choose "Open With" and select "Choose Another Application" from the context menu;
- Choose Microsoft Word from the available applications listed in the pop-up window to set it as the default application to open your DOC file;
- Be sure to check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to confirm your selection.
How to edit a DOC file?
To modify DOC files, it is necessary to install dedicated software that lets you open and edit data files. Online DOC editors generally offer fewer tools compared to programs designed for Microsoft Word Document.
Best DOC editors 2026
Based on your described criteria, here is a list of available DOC editors.
| DOC Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| WordPerfect | Corel | Windows | 4.9 out of 5 (36 reviews) |
| Ability Write | Ability Plus | Windows | 4.8 out of 5 (35 reviews) |
| Kingsoft Office | Kingsoft Research | Windows | 4.8 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
| OpenOffice Writer | OpenOffice | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.7 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
| AbiWord | AbiSource | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.6 out of 5 (43 reviews) |
| KWord | KOffice | Linux | 4.5 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
| Microsoft Word | Microsoft | Windows, Mac OS, Apple iOS, Android | 4.4 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
| Pages | Apple | Mac OS, Apple iOS | 4.4 out of 5 (40 reviews) |
| NeoOffice | Planamesa | Mac OS | 4.2 out of 5 (40 reviews) |
Convert files to and from DOC
If you struggle with a DOC file, consider converting it to alternative formats such as JPG, JPEG, PNG, MP3, PDF or other similar file types.
It is important to understand that converting a DOC file might limit certain functions, but this conversion is usually reversible.
Offline conversion tools, like Microsoft Word, WordPerfect and Pages, provide reliable and high-quality conversion of DOC files.
Convert DOC to other file formats
Converting Files to DOC Format
Tips and tricks to solve problems with DOC files
DOC files can sometimes be tricky, but minor software adjustments usually resolve the issues. Refer to the tips below for guidance.
What are the steps to repair a damaged DOC file?
Launch Word Regenerator, Advanced Word Repair or Office Regenerator and open the damaged DOC file. Then, choose the "Repair" option from the menu. Wait for the recovery process to finish as it will automatically restore the damaged data files.
How can I determine if my DOC file is damaged?
The signs of corrupted DOC data files can manifest as:
- The file causes Microsoft Word or other software to hang or crash during various operations;
- Error notifications appear during file manipulation;
- The file encounters problems during the opening process or shows error indications;
- An unexplained increase in the size of the DOC file;
- The file shows slow performance when edited in Microsoft Word;
What are the reasons behind Microsoft Word crash?
Insufficient software updates are a likely cause of Microsoft Word crashes. Be sure to install the latest updates for Microsoft products.
Restarting your computer is an essential troubleshooting step that can resolve many common problems. It is recommended to restart your computer before making any changes to the software settings.