How to view file extensions in Windows 10/8/7



Updated December 2024: Stop getting error messages and slow down your system with our optimization tool. Get it now at this link
  1. Download and install the repair tool here.
  2. Let it scan your computer.
  3. The tool will then repair your computer.

The file extension is the one that identifies the file type. If you are a normal Windows user, there is no problem identifying the file type. It is very important to see the file extension to identify the type of file you are trying to open from a security point of view. So, in this post, we will see how to hide or show file extensions and why show them.

Since file names allow the use of multiple elements, the real name of a malware file could be .docx.exe, which would help you recognize that it is in fact an executable file and most likely a malware file.

What are file extensions and why are they useful?

December 2024 Update:

You can now prevent PC problems by using this tool, such as protecting you against file loss and malware. Additionally, it is a great way to optimize your computer for maximum performance. The program fixes common errors that might occur on Windows systems with ease - no need for hours of troubleshooting when you have the perfect solution at your fingertips:

  • Step 1 : Download PC Repair & Optimizer Tool (Windows 10, 8, 7, XP, Vista – Microsoft Gold Certified).
  • Step 2 : Click “Start Scan” to find Windows registry issues that could be causing PC problems.
  • Step 3 : Click “Repair All” to fix all issues.

Download Now

Different file types have different extensions. Audio files have.mp3,.wav,.wav,.wma and more based on the program that opened this file. File extensions also help the operating system to identify the appropriate program for opening the respective file. So you should be able to see file extensions to be more secure, and we will let you know how to enable options to see file extensions in Windows.

As already mentioned, Windows does not display default file extensions and they are hidden. But you can change the option to see it.

Show file extensions

There are two ways to access this setting. On the one hand via the Control Panel and on the other hand via Windows Explorer itself. In both cases, you will switch from the option to display file extensions.

From Control Panel

Open Control Panel > Appearance and Customization. Now click Folder Options or Option in the File Explorer, as shown now > View tab. In this tab, you see the option Hide extensions for known file types under Advanced settings. Deselect this option and click Apply and OK.

You can now see the extensions of all files on your Windows system.

These are very simple steps and you do not need third party software to view file extensions. Windows offers us everything that is easy to achieve and it is a matter of knowing them and implementing them. This is the first way to see file extensions under Windows 7.

Via Windows File Explorer

In Windows Explorer 8.1, you can access it via View > Options > Edit Folder and Search Options. In Windows 7, open the Explorer and press Alt on your keyboard to display the Classic Bar. Then click Tools > Folder Options. Now follow the steps above.

How to configure your Windows to display file extensions under Windows 8. If you would like to add anything, please let us know with your comments.

Besides, you can also use a Microsoft Fix it 50533. Simply run Fix It and follow the on-screen instructions.



Expert Tip: This repair tool scans the repositories and replaces corrupt or missing files if none of these methods have worked. It works well in most cases where the problem is due to system corruption. This tool will also optimize your system to maximize performance. It can be downloaded by Clicking Here

Related Video

Scroll to Top