.DOCM File Extension

Microsoft Word Macro-enabled Document

Developer Microsoft
Popularity
3.6  |  64 Votes
 

What is a DOCM file?

A DOCM file is a document created by Microsoft Word, a popular word processor included with Microsoft 365. It contains embedded macros that can be executed within the document. DOCM files are used to automate repetitive or complex Word doc (.DOCX) tasks using macro functionality.

More Information

Screenshot of a .docm file in Microsoft Word 365
DOCM file open in Microsoft Word 365

Macros are a series of inputs and commands a user has grouped together so they can easily execute a repetitive or complex task, such as formatting a document, entering data, or performing calculations. In Microsoft Word, users can record a macro by selecting View → Macros → Record Macro. After assigning the macro to a Quick Access button or keyboard shortcut, users can click the button or press the shortcut keys to execute that macro.

If a user who has utilized macros to create a Word document wants to retain those macros when they re-open or share the document, they must save the document as a DOCM file. DOCM files are saved using the same Open XML-based format used by DOCX files, but DOCM files can store macros used to create a document, while DOCX files cannot. When you open an unfamiliar DOCM file in Microsoft Word, the program will typically ask whether you want to enable macros.

How to open a DOCM file

You can open a DOCM file in Microsoft Word 2007 or later versions (Windows, Mac) as well as OpenOffice Writer (cross-platform). When you do, the programs may ask you to enable macros. As explained below, you should enable macros only if you can verify your DOCM file's legitimacy and source.

Warning

While DOCM files are typically legitimate Microsoft Word documents, they may also be used to distribute and execute malware attacks on victims' computers. To protect against malicious DOCM attacks, never open or enable macros within a DOCM file unless you can verify its legitimacy and source.

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Programs that open DOCM files

Verified by FileInfo.com

The FileInfo.com team has independently researched the Microsoft Word Macro-enabled Document file format and Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS apps listed on this page. Our goal is 100% accuracy and we only publish information about file types that we have verified.

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