Reference number: CH000573

How to view a computer file extension.

Question:

How to view a computers file extension.

Additional information:

Users more familiar with computer files and file extensions may wish to view all computer file extensions to help with locating and browsing files.

• A listing of computer file extensions can also be found on our file information page.
• Information about changing a file extension can be found on document CH000428.

Answer:

Windows 2000 and Windows XP users

1. In Windows 2000 or Windows XP open My Computer
2. Click Tools
3. Click Folder Options
4. Click View tab
5. Uncheck the box that says Hide file extensions for known file types.

OR:

1. In Windows XP click on Start
2. Click Control Panel
3. Click Folder Options
4. Click View
5. Uncheck Hide extensions for known file type.

MS-DOS users

In MS-DOS when typing dir to list all files will also list any files with extensions.

Windows 98 and ME users

1. In Windows 98 or Windows ME open My Computer
2. Click View
3. Click Folder Options
4. Uncheck the box that says Hide file extensions for known file types.

Windows 95 users

1. In Windows 95 open My Computer
2. Click View
3. Click Options
4. Uncheck the box that says "Hide MS-DOS file extensions for files that are registered" and then click on apply and ok.