Convert Word 2007 Docx Documents to Doc Format

Every few years, Microsoft updates the file format used by Word, creating untold havoc in the process. So what happens if, say, a client sends you a Word 2007 file and you're still plugging along with Word 2003? You're stuck, that's what: Word 2007's Docx files aren't backwards-compatible with earlier versions of the program. Fortunately, there are ways to work around this annoying problem. One option is to install Microsoft's Office Compatibility Pack, which enables older versions of Word to open Docx files. (It also allows older versions of Excel and PowerPoint to open documents created by their Office 2007 counterparts.)

If you can't install the Compatibility Pack without IT approval or you just need a quicker solution, try Docx2doc.com. Just upload a Docx file to this free Web service and it'll convert it to the more universally compatible Doc format. Want to add a Docx converter to your Web site? Try the aptly named Docx Converter: Its free site widget (pictured) lets users drag and drop their Docx files for quick and easy conversion.