No longer able to read or open older Word (.doc) documents using Word 2010.

I suspect the problem started after installing Windows updates. 

Word 2010 continues to work normally when using .docx files.  The problem is only with the older, .doc files.  When I try to open older files I am prompted to select the encoding that makes your document readable.  Nothing works.


Answer
Answer

Is the problem with double-clicking the icons for *.doc files? In other words, can you open the files if you start Word first? In that case, it's a file association issue, which can be resolved as follows: Exit Word if it is running. Hold the Windows logo key as you press R; in the Run dialog box, type winword /r and press Enter (note the space before the slash). Wait for the configuration to complete, and then try double-clicking *.doc files again. If it still doesn't work, take a look at http://www.gmayor.com/document_not_found.htm.

Stefan Blom
MS 365 Word MVP since 2005
Volunteer Moderator
MS 365, Win 11 Pro
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Note that I do not work for Microsoft
https://mvp.microsoft.com/
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Please specify Word version & OS in your question

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Question Info


Last updated July 29, 2024 Views 1,241 Applies to: