DOTX File Extension

What is DOTX file?

Files with DOTX extension are templates files created by Microsoft Word word processing software. DOTX file contain document settings and page layouts, including macros, styles, Autotext and toolbar settings.

DOTX file applications

DOTX template files are commonly used for creating multiple DOCX documents with the same formatting schema. Templates allow users to reuse previously created document formatting and layouts without the need of creating new ones for each document individually. DOTX files are very convenient tools for creating similar documents, such as newsletters, business plans, or resumes.

Similarities with DOCX file format

DOCX format is somewhat more recognizable than DOTX format, and both share many similarites, for example, they store many of the same type of data, such as styles, images, and text content. DOTX files offer option to password-protect the content, a useful feature that guarantees the file in question will not be modified by other users when more than one users are using the file.

Additional information

1. DOTX format combines XML structure and ZIP compression to reduce the size of file.
2. DOTX format replaces older DOT format as of the introduction of Microsoft Office 2007.
3. Default name of template file created with Word software is Normal.dotx.

Programs which support DOTX file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with DOTX files, divided into 4 categories based on operating system on which they are available. DOTX files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 01/12/2020

How to open file with DOTX extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening DOTX files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with DOTX files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install Microsoft Word software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening DOTX files is that no program that can handle DOTX files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Microsoft Word or different compatible program, such as Microsoft Office, Apache OpenOffice, LibreOffice. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support DOTX files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Microsoft Word website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of Microsoft Word and update if needed

If the problems with opening DOTX files still occur even after installing Microsoft Word, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft Word is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that Microsoft Word cannot handle files with DOTX may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of Microsoft Word is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open DOTX files to Microsoft Word

If you have the latest version of Microsoft Word installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage DOTX on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the DOTX file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Microsoft Word installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open DOTX files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the DOTX file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with DOTX extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the DOTX for errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the DOTX file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Verify that the DOTX in question is not infected with a computer virus

Should it happed that the DOTX is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the DOTX file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the DOTX file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Verify that the DOTX file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic DOTX file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. If the DOTX file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Microsoft Word

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support DOTX files. Close all running programs and try opening the DOTX file.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Word Open XML Document Template files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the DOTX files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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