One of the oldest independent UK software developers, Xara has been developing software since 1981.

From Wordwise, one of the earliest microcomputer word processors, to Xara Xtreme, the world's fastest, and many believe the world's best drawing and illustration software, Xara has developed a wide range of products covering the whole realm of publishing software. Xara has pioneered many technologies taken for granted nowadays. From developing the world's first check-as-you-type spell checker, to award winning desk-top-publishing software, to the first drawing software to provide real-time anti-aliasing and transparency control, Xara continues to innovate and develop leading edge technical solutions.

Xara has been involved in the Internet from the very beginning. Xara Networks, a subsidiary of the Xara Group, was a pioneer Internet provider in the mid 1990s (and today is GX Networks, no longer part of the Xara group). Xara does most of its business via the Internet and has millions of online customers, worldwide. Xara Online provides leading edge online Web Service based solutions. Xara Online's connectable data Modules remain the quickest way to create online, interactive, database solutions.

Xara's first Windows illustration software, Xara Studio, was licensed to Corel and distributed for many years as CorelXARA. Now back under Xara control this product has been enhanced and relaunched as Xara Xtreme.

Xara is a private company headquartered in the historic house, Gaddesden Place, in the UK, north of London.