Since Windows Vista, Microsoft has been hiding file extensions. It isn’t delightful, especially if you’re looking for a specific type of file, like a JPEG in a folder of RAW files. It can also be harmful, as it can allow you to unconsciously click on an EXE file, assuming it is something else; for example, a virus called notdangerous.jpg.EXE will appear in File Explorer as notdangerous.jpg. And since a JPEG file is not inherently dangerous, a distracted user can easily open that file by accident. As detailed by https://net2.com/how-to-see-file-extensions-in-windows-7-8-or-10/, this article will share some notions about file extensions.
Why You Should Show File Extensions
Each record has a file extension that tells Windows what type of document it is. File extensions are usually four or four digits long, but they can also be longer. If you have a document called Example.docx, Windows knows that it is a Word document and opens it with Microsoft Word. The Windows setting to show file extensions is excellent for security reasons. If you cannot see the exact attachment of a registry, it is difficult to tell at a glance whether it is a particular program or a media registry.
If the file extensions are hidden, there is no quick way to figure out if it is a legitimate PDF document or a genuinely malicious application with the PDF reader icon as a disguise. If you had configured Windows to display file extensions, you might judge whether it is a secure registry called document.pdf or a dangerous file with a name like “document.exe.” You can look at the file properties window for more information, but it is unnecessary if the file extensions are enabled.
How to Show File Name Extensions in Windows Explorer
There are instances that you cannot see the file name extensions when you scroll at your files in Windows Explorer. You have to understand that different file types have other extensions. For example, a Lighthouse Studio survey is accompanied by a growth of .ssi. File extensions help the operating system to identify the correct program to run for that particular file. If you can monitor such attachments, you can manage the files by following these steps:
For Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008
- Start Windows Explorer, you can do this by opening up any folder.
- Click Organize.
- Click Folder and search options.
- Click the View tab.
- Scroll down until you notice Hide extensions for known file types; un-check this line by clicking the check box. To hide file name extensions, check this line.
- Click OK
For Windows 8-10
- Start Windows Explorer, you can do this by opening up any folder.
- Click the View menu.
- Check the box next to “File name Extensions.”