My Publisher file won't open

Since October 2026 this is very common. Here is why it happens and how to get the file back.

Most likely: Publisher was removed

Microsoft removed Publisher from Microsoft 365 on 1 October 2026. If Publisher came with your Microsoft 365 subscription, it is gone, and Windows no longer knows what to open .pub files with. The file itself is fine.

Fix: convert it

Upload the file on our home page. You get a PDF anyone can open, an editable version for Canva, PowerPoint or Google Slides, and a Word file. The preview is free, so you can check the file is all there before paying.

If it says the file is damaged

Files copied from old floppy disks, USB sticks or email attachments are sometimes cut short. Try to find another copy. If that one also fails, email help@openpublisherfiles.com and we will look at it for free.

Very old files

Files from Publisher 98 onwards can usually be converted. Files from Publisher 2.0 or 95 are rarer and may not open.