WPS File Extension

What is WPS file?

Files with the WPS extension are documents created with the Mircosoft Works software. They may contain elements such as formatted text, images, ClipArts and tables; therefore they are similar to documents in DOC format.

WPS and DOC documents

It is not surprising that WPS and DOC files share many similarities, because the WPS format was substituted in 2006 by his newer „brother” – DOC – which brought certain upgrades. WPS do not provide some of the more advanced formatting options and it does not contain macros. Therefore WPS files are sufficient only to support basic text documents, such as creating notes, spreadsheets – everything which does not require complicated formatting and effects.

Opening WPS files

Considering the above mentioned features, the WPS format was substituted by DOC because the latter turned out to be more universal and useful. However, despite the differences occurring between those formats, current Mircosoft Word and Microsoft Publisher programs are able to open WPS files. It is also possible to convert Works documents into the format currently used by MS Words with the Microsoft Works 6-9 Converter application.

Programs which support WPS file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with WPS files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. WPS files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 10/26/2021

How to open file with WPS extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening WPS files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Microsoft Works Word Processor 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 Microsoft Works

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening WPS files is that no program that can handle WPS files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select Microsoft Works or one of the recommended programs (for example, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Publisher) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support WPS files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading Microsoft Works installed is by going to developer’s website (Microsoft Corporation) and downloading the software using provided links.

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

You still cannot access WPS files although Microsoft Works is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. This can be one of the causes why WPS files are not compatible with Microsoft Works. The latest version of Microsoft Works should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open WPS files to Microsoft Works

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate WPS files with latest version of Microsoft Works you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Right-click the WPS file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Microsoft Works installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open WPS files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected WPS file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select Microsoft Works and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with WPS extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the WPS for errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the WPS file is valid. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the WPS file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the WPS is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. WPS file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

If you obtained the problematic WPS file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. If the WPS 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. Check whether your system can handle Microsoft Works

If the systems has insufficient resources to open WPS files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

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

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Microsoft Works Word Processor Document files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with WPS files affecting older versions of given software.

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