SDW File Extension

What is SDW file?

SDW is a text document file format associated with StarOffice software package. The last version of StarOffice was released back in 2008. StarOffice was marketed as a more affordable alternative to Microsoft Office, but only managed to capture 3% of the market. It was for some time distributed as a paid license, but since 2000 is available as open source software. SDW files are supported by Open Office.

StarOffice files.

Besides SDW files, StarOffice also supported the SXW format (format similar to DOCX from Microsoft Word). Some other file formats supported by StarOffice are:

• SDC and SXC spreadsheet documents
• SDD and SXO multimedia presentation formats
• SDA and SXD draw templates
• SDB database document
• SMF and SXM formula templates

Programs which support SDW file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open SDW files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with SDW extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 01/13/2023

How to open file with SDW extension?

Problems with accessing SDW may be due to various reasons. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to StarOffice Writer Text Document files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Get the Apache OpenOffice

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening SDW files is that no program that can handle SDW files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Apache OpenOffice or different compatible program, such as LibreOffice, NeoOffice, StarOffice. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support SDW files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. If you want to download Apache OpenOffice installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Apache Software Foundation website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Check the version of Apache OpenOffice and update if needed

You still cannot access SDW files although Apache OpenOffice is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. This can be one of the causes why SDW files are not compatible with Apache OpenOffice. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Apache OpenOffice.

Step 3. Associate StarOffice Writer Text Document files with Apache OpenOffice

After installing Apache OpenOffice (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open SDW files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

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 SDW file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Apache OpenOffice installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open SDW files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the SDW file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with SDW extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the SDW is not faulty

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper SDW file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

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

If the SDW is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the SDW file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

If you obtained the problematic SDW file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. If the SDW file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

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 Apache OpenOffice

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with SDW extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with StarOffice Writer Text Document file. It may be the case that the SDW files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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