How to Convert Older Word and Excel Documents for Microsoft 365
Question details
The user needs to convert older Microsoft Word (.doc) and Excel (.xls) files into the modern file formats supported by Microsoft 365.
- Product
- Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Opening legacy documents in a modern Office application to utilize current features.
- Observed behavior
- The user wants to update the file format to modern standards like DOCX or XLSX without needing separate conversion software.
Ensure that you have Microsoft Word or Excel installed on your computer and locate the specific folder containing the legacy .doc or .xls files you wish to upgrade.
Convert Legacy Files Using the Built-in Info Menu
Use Microsoft 365's native conversion tool to upgrade older .doc or .xls files to modern formats directly within the application.
Microsoft 365 natively handles legacy formats by opening them in Compatibility Mode. Converting these files allows you to access newer features that are disabled when editing older formats.
Launch Microsoft Word or Excel, navigate to File > Open, and select your older .doc or .xls document.
Once the file is loaded, click on the File tab in the top-left corner of the window and select Info from the left-hand sidebar.
Locate the Compatibility Mode section and click the Convert button. This will initiate the upgrade process for the document.
Save the newly converted document by selecting File > Save As, ensuring the file extension is now set to DOCX or XLSX.
Convert and Edit Legacy Documents Seamlessly with WPS Office
WPS Office offers native compatibility with all Microsoft Office file formats, allowing you to easily open older .doc and .xls files and convert them to the latest .docx and .xlsx formats without any hassle.
- 1. Open the file in WPS Office: Launch WPS Office Writer or Spreadsheet, click on 'Open', and select your legacy .doc or .xls file.
- 2. Access the Save As menu: Click on 'Menu' in the top-left corner and select 'Save As' from the dropdown list.
- 3. Select the modern format: In the 'Save as type' drop-down menu, choose Microsoft Word Document (*.docx) or Microsoft Excel Workbook (*.xlsx).
- 4. Complete the conversion: Click 'Save' to successfully convert and store your document in the modern format.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't convert older documents in Microsoft 365?
If you do not convert the files, they will open in Compatibility Mode. You will be able to read and edit the document, but you won't have access to the newest design elements and features available in Microsoft 365.
Can I convert multiple Word or Excel files at once in Microsoft 365?
Microsoft 365 does not offer a native batch conversion tool in its graphical interface. You must open and convert each file individually using the File > Info > Convert method, or utilize a macro to process files in bulk.
Will converting my older document change its formatting?
In most cases, the text and general layout remain intact. However, because older formats handle certain layout elements differently, minor adjustments might be necessary after conversion to ensure complex tables or graphics align perfectly.
