FODT File Extension

FODT file icon

OpenDocument Flat XML Document

What is a FODT file?

The FODT file extension is linked to OpenDocument Flat XML Document and belongs to the Document Files category, which includes 969 files.

The OpenDocument Flat XML Document (FODT) was created by Oracle, a company that developed file format and produced 36 programs for their use.

FODT files are supported by Mac OS, Windows and Linux. If you need to open a FODT file, you can use one of 5 programs, such as OpenOffice Writer, LibreOffice Writer and NeoOffice.

How to open a FODT file?

If you’re having difficulty opening a FODT file, it is often due to not having the correct software. To solve the problem, choose a compatible program from the list. Then follow the link to the official developer site, download the software, and install it on your device.

The most popular programs for working with FODT files are OpenOffice Writer, LibreOffice Writer and NeoOffice. To get the latest version of NeoOffice, open the Planamesa website where a universal installer for all operating systems is available.

Once installed, NeoOffice will be set as the default program, and FODT files will open automatically.

Setting NeoOffice as default FODT viewer

Changing the default program in Windows

  1. Right-click your FODT file, then navigate to the "Open With" option and click "Choose Another Application" to continue;
  2. Choose NeoOffice from the available applications listed in the pop-up window to set it as the default application to open your FODT file;
  3. Be sure to check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to confirm your selection.

Change the default app for a file type in Mac

  1. Initiate a right click or use Control + left click on the desired FODT file to open a menu where you can select various actions;
  2. Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
  3. At the bottom of the window, find the "Enable" menu, where "Recommended Programs" is already selected by default;
  4. Within this menu, select "All Programs" and then locate NeoOffice. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default program.

Convert to and from FODT

If a FODT file is difficult to handle, you might try converting it to formats such as PDF, DOC or similar, which may be easier to work with.

Please note that after converting a FODT file, some functionality may differ from the original. However, in many cases, it can be converted back to its original format.

Offline software like OpenOffice Writer and LibreOffice Writer allows you to convert FODT files to other formats while maintaining quality.

Convert FODT to other file formats

Tips and tricks to solve problems with FODT files

Certain problems with FODT files can be conveniently fixed with small software tweaks. Here are some helpful tips to address them.

What are the telltale signs of a corrupt FODT file?

Corrupted FODT document files may have one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Unexplained increase in FODT file size;
  • File hangs or crashes in NeoOffice or other programs;
  • The file does not open or opens with errors;
  • While working with the file, error messages appear;
  • Poor performance when editing a file in OpenOffice Writer;

Why does NeoOffice quit or crash unexpectedly?

NeoOffice crashes can occur due to outdated software versions. To mitigate this, install the latest updates for Planamesa 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.

What methods can be used to repair a damaged FODT file?

Open the damaged FODT file with a recovery program, and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair process. Then wait for the recovery process to complete, which allows you to automatically repair corrupted document files.

How to edit a FODT file?

To edit FODT files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify document files. Online FODT editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for OpenDocument Flat XML Document.

Best FODT editors in 2026

Considering the mentioned criteria, we have compiled a list of FODT editors that may suit your needs.

FODT Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
OpenOffice WriterOpenOfficeWindows, Mac OS, Linux4.7 out of 5 (37 reviews)
LibreOffice WriterTDFWindows, Mac OS, Linux4.5 out of 5 (40 reviews)
NeoOfficePlanamesaMac OS4.2 out of 5 (40 reviews)