Word Documents problem

[Clan Chief]

Today I noticed that all my word documents have changed for some reason to DOCX files and DOC files. when I click on them to open I get a Microsoft box on screen saying the programme to open these documents isn't installed on my computer and asks me to purchase Microsoft office or try office for free.
Very strange as I created a document yesterday and this morning using Microsoft word starter 2010.
I can open Microsoft starter and open the file in there but cant open the files in the normal way I used to.   

Anyone help?

[bushy palmer]

Sounds like your computer is set to open these documents with another programme.

Try right clicking and select "open with"

[Clan Chief]

when I do this I'm getting the option of word pad, Microsoft word [which opens the box I mentioned on my opening thread and Microsoft client virtualisation handler   

[Clan Chief]

I think i've managed to sort it now. will wait and see if it stays stable

[bushy palmer]

Here's hoping .

I no longer use word because it's so unstable. I much prefer Open Office.

http://www.openoffice.org/

[Clan Chief]

Thanks Brian I might look into that

[Wildfisher]

Here's hoping .

I no longer use word because it's so unstable. I much prefer Open Office.

http://www.openoffice.org/

Me too. No way I use MS Office now - Open Office is better and trouble free

[scotgillespie]

Yip Word is one of those things I have to use from time to time - and I truly loath it.

Open Office or Libra Office (http://www.libreoffice.org/) are both off the same Star Office root, and I have used both at home for years - presently I lean towards Libra.

Unconnected to this this morning the room was full of developers, testers, translators and authors - we were all talking about our mistrust and hatred of the omni present Word.