How to Open WPS Files in Open Office

The free OpenOffice software suite includes a word processor, a spreadsheet editor, a database program and a presentation editor, making it a cost-effective choice for small businesses with a budget that doesn't allow for the more commonly used Microsoft Office. Although OpenOffice supports many of the same file formats, it lacks compatibility for certain less-used formats, such as the WPS file format that is native to the now discontinued Microsoft Works software suite. To open one of these files, you will need to convert it to a different format.

Using LibreOffice

1. Navigate to the LibreOffice website (see Resources) and download the installation file for the program. LibreOffice is a word processing program that supports opening WPS files; it can be installed alongside and coexist with OpenOffice.
2. Install and launch LibreOffice.
3. Click "File, select "Open," navigate to the location of the file you wish to convert, select it and click "Open" to load the file in LibreOffice.
4. Click "File," select "Save As" and navigate to the location where you wish to save the converted file.
5. Click the "File Type" drop-down menu and select a file format that is compatible with OpenOffice, such as RTF, DOC or ODT.
6. Click "Save" to convert the file.
7. Launch OpenOffice and open the converted file as normal.

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