Convert SXW to BAK~

Understanding SXW and BAK~ file formats

SXW is a file extension used by OpenOffice.org Writer for its word processing documents. It is based on the OpenDocument XML format and was commonly used before the adoption of the ODT format. SXW files can contain formatted text, images, tables, and other document elements.

BAK~ is not a standard file format but rather a convention for backup files. The ~ (tilde) at the end of the extension typically indicates a temporary or backup copy of a file, often created automatically by software to prevent data loss. The content of a BAK~ file depends on the original file it backs up.

How to convert SXW to BAK~

Since BAK~ is simply a backup copy, converting an SXW file to BAK~ involves renaming the file or creating a duplicate with the .bak~ extension. There is no change in the file's internal format; it remains an SXW document, just with a different extension to indicate its backup status.

Step-by-step conversion process

1. Locate your .sxw file on your computer.
2. Right-click the file and select Copy to create a duplicate.
3. Rename the copied file, changing the extension from .sxw to .bak~ (e.g., document.sxw → document.bak~).
4. Confirm the change if prompted by your operating system.

This process creates a backup copy of your SXW file with the .bak~ extension.

Recommended software for managing SXW and BAK~ files

• LibreOffice Writer or Apache OpenOffice Writer: Open, edit, and save SXW files. These programs may also create backup files automatically.
• File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (macOS): Use to duplicate and rename files for manual backup.

There is no need for a dedicated file converter for this process, as it is a matter of file duplication and renaming.

Summary

Converting an SXW file to a BAK~ file is simply a way to create a backup copy by renaming the file extension. The file content remains unchanged, and you can always revert the extension to .sxw to open it in compatible word processors.