Hello there! I would like to discuss a useful feature in Windows 10 – displaying file extensions. Although it may seem insignificant, being able to view file extensions can greatly benefit you, particularly when resolving issues or handling various file formats.
By default, Windows 10 hides file extensions for known file types. While this can make file names look cleaner and more user-friendly, it can also make it harder to identify the exact file type you are dealing with. Fortunately, changing this setting is a breeze.
Step 1: Open File Explorer Options
First, you’ll want to open the File Explorer Options. To do this, open any folder in Windows Explorer and click on the “View” tab at the top of the window. Once there, click on the “Options” button on the far right side of the ribbon.
Step 2: Navigate to the View Tab
In the “Folder Options” window that appears, you’ll see several tabs at the top. Click on the “View” tab to access the view settings for File Explorer.
Step 3: Uncheck “Hide extensions for known file types”
Now, look for the option that says “Hide extensions for known file types” in the list of advanced settings. By default, this option is checked. Simply uncheck the box next to it to show file extensions in Windows 10.
I personally find it helpful to have file extensions visible at all times. It helps me quickly identify file types and avoid any confusion. Plus, it’s a useful skill to have when troubleshooting or working with different file formats.
Once you’ve made this change, you’ll notice that file names in File Explorer now include the file extension at the end. This can be particularly useful when dealing with files that have the same or similar names but different extensions.
Keep in mind:
While showing file extensions can be handy, it’s important to be cautious when dealing with unknown files. File extensions can give you a clue about the file type, but they can also be misleading if a file has been maliciously named with a different extension. Always exercise caution when opening files from unfamiliar sources, even if the file extension seems innocuous.
In conclusion, the ability to show file extensions in Windows 10 is a simple yet valuable feature. It can help you quickly identify the file type and avoid any confusion. So go ahead and customize your File Explorer settings to show those extensions!