Quick Tip: How To View File Extensions in Windows 10

Windows hides file extensions by default, but turning them on can save a lot of confusion. Here's how to quickly enable them so you can always see exactly what type of file you're dealing with.

By default, out of the box, Windows 10 does not show file type extensions, presumably because most average users don’t care about file extensions. Still, in my experience with on-site and remote work, I have done, inevitably, most people end up wanting to know the file extension of a file that they are dealing with.

To view the file extensions of a files across Windows, in Windows 10, single left-click on the “View” tab, and click the checkbox next to show “File Extensions”. That’s it. You’re done.

Here is an example of what you will see with File Extensions enabled. You’ll notice “.exe” or “.jpg”, or others at the end of each file name. Keep in mind Windows already knows what type of file it is. Seeing File Extensions are solely for your benefit.

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