FWP File Extension

FWP file icon

Microsoft Expression Web Package

What is a FWP file?

Files with the FWP extension are associated with Microsoft Expression Web Package and are categorized as Compressed Files and Web Files, making up 1103 files.

The Microsoft Expression Web Package (FWP), created by Microsoft, is one of file format they developed, and they also built 242 programs to support them.

FWP file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows. When working with FWP files, you can rely on 3 programs, including Microsoft FrontPage, SharePoint Designer and ZipZag.

Programs that support FWP files

How to open a FWP file?

If you can’t open a FWP file, it is usually because the necessary software is missing. To resolve the issue, select the right program from the list for your operating system. Then go to the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it.

When it comes to opening and working with FWP files, Microsoft FrontPage, SharePoint Designer and ZipZag are the top choices for users. To install the updated version of Microsoft FrontPage, simply go to the Microsoft site and download the installer compatible with all major platforms.

Once the process is complete, Microsoft FrontPage should take over as the default application for FWP files.

Set Microsoft FrontPage as the default FWP program

Changing Default Programs in Windows

  1. Right-click on your FWP file, then choose the "Open with" option and select "Choose another application" from the available options;
  2. In the pop-up window, select the Microsoft FrontPage application;
  3. Check the "Always use this application" checkbox, and then click "OK" to apply the selected application as the default for opening FWP files.

Change Default Program on Mac

  1. Right click or Control + left click on the desired FWP file;
  2. Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
  3. At the bottom of the window, you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, will be set to "Recommended Programs";
  4. Choose "All Programs" in this menu and search for Microsoft FrontPage. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.

Solve problems with FWP files

Rest assured, any issues with FWP files can typically be addressed with simple software adjustments. See the tips below for help.

Why does Microsoft FrontPage stop responding or crash intermittently?

Microsoft FrontPage crashes can be caused by outdated software. Keep your Microsoft products up to date by installing the latest updates.

Restarting your computer will solve many common problems, which is why it’s the first thing you should do before changing any settings related to the software.

What are the best practices for repairing a FWP file that has gone bad?

Use a data recovery program to open the damaged FWP file and from the menu choose "Repair" function to start the repair process. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged compressed files.

What are the warning signs that my FWP file may be corrupted?

Common indications of damaged FWP compressed files are:

  • Error messages appear during the course of working with the file;
  • Editing the archive in Microsoft FrontPage results in slow or unresponsive behavior;
  • Opening the file results in an error or a failed attempt;
  • Unexpected expansion of the total size of the FWP file;
  • Opening the file in Microsoft FrontPage or other programs causes them to hang or crash;

How to edit a FWP file?

To edit FWP files, it is essential to install software that supports not only viewing but also editing the compressed files. Online FWP editors provide limited functionality compared to full-featured software for Microsoft Expression Web Package.

List of Top FWP editors 2026

Based on the criteria above, here is a selection of FWP editors you can use.

FWP Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
Microsoft FrontPageMicrosoftWindows4.5 out of 5 (40 reviews)
SharePoint DesignerMicrosoftWindows4.2 out of 5 (37 reviews)

Convert to and from FWP

If obstacles arise while working with a FWP file, you may convert it to formats like DBF or other similar types for smoother handling.

Keep in mind that converting a FWP file may introduce some limitations, but the original format can often be restored.

Convert FWP to other file formats