Convert MS Word .docx to .doc?

Everyone keeps recommending LibreOffice as if it is the only free version of Office. There are others such as FreeOffice. It is not as comprehensive as LibreOffice but does 99% of what most people need/want. FreeOffice consists of three programs TextMaker, PlanMaker & Presentations which are comparable to MS Office Word, Excel & PowerPoint. I have used many free office programs over the years and find I like FreeOffice better than LibreOffice. BTW, FreeOffice like LibreOffice can read/write MS Office 2007 and newer files.

Everyone keeps recommending LibreOffice as if it is the only free version of Office.

Probably because that is where the experience is with programs just like when I got my- first computer in '92 and WordPerfect was in the forefront of office-type products with the dealers in my area and course offered at the college. I still use WordPerfect, have used Lotus AmiPro, Lotus WordPro, Lotus Symphony and have Microsoft Office on a couple three machines [Version 2000, 2013 and Microsoft 365], also have some portable versions on a USB Thumb drive, LibreOffice Portable, Essential Office and Claris Works 5.

Thanks for all those replies, folks! It feels like Old Home Week here at TenForums. You've given me lots of useful ideas.

I should have added that the program suites I mentioned are all multi-apps, have word processor, spreadsheet and presentations, etc.

Try3 said:

And, for your Word 2003, there used to be an addon that let it read .docx files directly

Here is a download link [that I have just tested] - Microsoft Office Compatibility Pack for Word, Excel, and PowerPoint File Formats - CNET Download

Irrespective of versions, if you had made a system image before that HDD failed, you could simply have restored the image to your replacement SSD then carried on using everything you had had before.

All the best,
Denis

Hi Denis! I decided to go with that File Format Converter that you found for me and it seems to work just fine! Thanks a million!

As for my failure to keep a disk image; guilty as charged. A long while back I did make an attempt to use one of the disk backup utilites recommended by contributors here at TenForums, but I coudn't figure out the correct settings and ended up with a botched back-up. So it's high time I give it another try.

CluelessInSeatl said:

... it's high time I give it another try.

Will,

I've mentioned a few things about some common imaging utilities in
my ditty - File backup vs imaging, imaging utilities, backing up drivers [post #3] - TenForums

Aomei is often said by other members to be the easiest to get to grips with.
I use a free version of Acronis TI.
Many members swoon about Macrium reflect. Its free version can still be had -
MR download, tweak - #4 - ElevenForum
Tweak is not what it seems - Bree #30 - ElevenForum
I tested this download link a short time ago but cannot remember if I also did the tweak that's referred to.
Macrium free v8.0.7279 download
You'd need to ask the contributors to those two threads for further advice about Macrium. Other than what I put together in my ditty or the tutorials it links to, I know nothing about it. I've used it maybe half a dozen times for practice.
Oh - one thing. Its ability to create a dual boot menu so you can boot straight into Macrium reflect is handy. But you must still make its boot disk because you will need it if your OS disk fails.


If you do choose Macrium reflect and have problems despite the tutorials about it, you could create a thread to ask for help.
If you call it something like, Macrium reflect is the best thing ever. Macrium reflect ought to be awarded the Nobel peace prize or something. I am having trouble using it., then you will be inundated with offers of help.

@Wynona might also be able to help since she teaches these things. I think you will have to contact here through ElevenForum.

Wynona said:

... need my backup program. I've taught Macrium Free to my Windows 11 students, but since they're all seniors (me too), and Macrium no longer has a free version, we'll be learning Aomei Backupper free and Hasleo Backup Suite

See What's your favourite product - post #9 - ElevenForum



Best of luck,
And thanks for the rep,
Denis