WPS file format
| Extension | .wps |
| Category | documents |
| Programs | Microsoft Word NeoOffice OxygenOffice Works Converter |
| Main program | Microsoft Works Word Processor |
| Description | The .wps file format, a component of the now-defunct Microsoft Works suite, was primarily used for word processing. The "Works Word Processor" created .wps files that mirrored the basic formatting capabilities of early Microsoft Word versions, minus the advanced features. Initially, only Microsoft Works could handle .wps files. Now, certain versions of Microsoft Word can open them, but with limited formatting options, following the discontinuation of Works. |
| Technical details | With the decline in the use of Microsoft Works, .wps files have become less common, frequently requiring conversion to more universally accepted formats like .doc or .docx. The .wps file format varied across different versions of Microsoft Works, affecting file compatibility. Although not as popular as formats like .doc, .wps files supported basic graphics and tables, had smaller file sizes, and are now considered a legacy format that requires specialized conversion tools. The end of Microsoft Works has resulted in fewer .wps files being used, shifting the focus to standard document formats. However, understanding the .wps format remains vital for accessing or converting older documents. |
| MIME type | application/vnd.ms-works application/kswps |