The PPT file extension normally represents a Microsoft PowerPoint presentation, or slide show. PPT files are most often created with Microsoft's PowerPoint software, though some other software, such as StarOffice, can also read and modify PPT files.

If you just need to view PowerPoint presentations, Microsoft has created freeware PPT file viewers available for download. Note these links on Microsoft's website were current as of 7/20/05 and subject to change:

* For Windows: PowerPoint Viewer 2003 - this should read PowerPoint files created by Microsoft PowerPoint 97 and later.

* For Macintosh: PowerPoint 98 Viewer.

A word of warning. PowerPoint presentations can include embedded macros. These normally add legitimate functionality to a PowerPoint presentation. However, they sometimes can be malicious. Make sure you only open PPT files from trusted sources. If you open/edit presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint, there is a way to adjust macro security settings.

Windows users: NOTE that unless you have configured your computer with the file extension viewing tweak, it is possible that a filename that looks like it ends with ".ppt", especially one attached to an e-mail message, actually has a hidden OTHER extension, meaning that if you double-click the file, it may actually run a computer virus!

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