File extension .AZW
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
Amazon Kindle EBook Format | Amazon | eBook Files |
The AZW file extension is used by the Amazon Kindle ebook reader. It is a proprietary file format with a DRM layer, meaning it can only be read on Kindle devices or tablet and smartphone applications running the Kindle App. AZW files are based on the open-source Mobipocket format and can be created from almost any text document, making them versatile when it comes to other ebook types.
Key Features of AZW Format
From a technical perspective, AZW files are based on MobiPocket, and combined with a proprietary format created by Amazon. It consists of four header lines, encrypted sections, metadata such as author, description, publisher etc, and optionally an index of words in the book. AZW formats can store complex page layouts and formatting as well, offering support to HTML or CSS, SVG, GIF and JPEG images. The advantage of the AZW file format is its DRM layer. This ensures that the books you purchase from Amazon cannot be shared online without first applying for permission from the publisher or author.
Other Related File Extensions
Other file extensions related to AZW include .MOBI, .PRC, .KF8, .TPZ, AWZ, and .AZW1. None of these formats are interchangeable.
Programs for WINDOWS system
Programs for MAC system
Programs for LINUX system
Programs for Android system
Programs for IOS system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .AZW) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .AZW extension.
When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.
Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .AZW file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .AZW extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .AZW extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .AZW file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .AZW file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.
In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .AZW file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .AZW file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .AZW file has no errors
- or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly
Author’s guidelines

Mr B. Adam
Author of the guidelines / Founder of FileExtension.info
New technologies enthusiast, helping to solve problems with the files.
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