Microsoft Word Document - Legacy (.doc)
The DOC file extension, standing for "Microsoft Word Document", is a legacy format used by Microsoft Word. Introduced in the early 1980s with Microsoft Word for MS-DOS, it became the standard format for saving documents until the adoption of the DOCX format with Microsoft Word 2007. DOC files encapsulate text, formatting, images, and other document elements, and were pivotal in advancing word processing capabilities, offering extensive features for creating professional and complex documents in both personal and professional contexts. Despite the shift to DOCX, DOC files remain significant for their compatibility with older software versions and extensive archival of legacy documents.