Windows 10 has been around for a few years now, but some people are only upgrading to it now. That’s because Microsoft only ended support for Windows 7 in early 2020, which encouraged many people to stick with an operating system they knew.
If you’ve recently made the switch to Windows 10, you’ve probably noticed many changes. You might have some questions about how you can make the system more to your liking.
One thing you might be wondering is how to show file extensions. Windows 10 hides them by default, which isn’t always helpful.
The good news is there are quite a few ways to get Windows 10 to show file extensions. This guide will walk you through them.
How to Show File Extensions with File Explorer
The easiest way to show file extensions in Windows 10 is to use the File Explorer. With this method, you’ll navigate to File Explorer by clicking on the icon on the Task Bar. Double-clicking any folder will also take you there.
Once you’ve launched File Explorer, you’ll want to switch to the “View” tab. There should be a checkbox that says “File name extensions.” Check the box.
Once you’ve done this, file extensions should display for all your files.
If you’re used to Windows Vista or Windows 7, you might be familiar with a slightly different process. To see file extensions, you needed to alter the File Explorer options.
This method still works in Windows 10. Open the File Explorer Options control panel. Then select the “View” tab.
You’ll be given a fairly extensive checklist of options under the advance settings. One of these is “hide extensions for known file types.”
If this box is checked, file extensions won’t display. If you want them to display, simply uncheck this box. Windows should now display file extensions.
Showing File Extensions with the Registry Editor
This is a slightly different method that’s best for more advanced users. When done correctly, it will also result in file extensions displaying in Windows 10.
First, you’ll need to open the Registry Editor. To do this, hit the WINKEY + R button combination. This will launch the Run utility.
Once you’ve opened the Run utility, type in “regedit” and press Enter. This will open the Registry Editor so you can make changes.
You’ll need to navigate to the following key:
- Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
Once you’re there, look up the DWORD entry labeled “HideFileExt.”
Double-click the DWORD entry and set its value to 0. This will display the file extensions. If you set the value to 1, it will hide the extensions.
When you’ve reset the value, you can exit the Registry Editor. Note that you’ll need to reboot the computer to see the changes.
Showing File Extensions with Windows Command Prompt
You can also use Command Prompt to get Windows 10 to display file extensions.
Start by using a bootable drive of Windows 10 installer. Next, hit WINKEY + X . You’ll then launch Command Prompt (Admin).
This launches Command Prompt with administrator privileges. You need those privileges for this method of showing file extensions to work.
Once you’re in the command line, navigate to the root location of the bootable device. Next, you’ll need to enter the following command:
- reg add HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced /v HideFileExt /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f
Once you’ve done that, hit Enter.
Why Use Registry Editor or Command Prompt?
Windows 10 includes a fairly easy way of showing file extensions. Using File Explorer, you just need to click a couple of buttons. So, why bother using the Registry Editor or Command Prompt methods described here?
There are a couple of advantages to using the Registry Editor or Command Prompt methods. The biggest one is that it’s a little more difficult to reset the setting from here.
You may also want to try them out if you’re learning how to use Command Prompt or the Registry Editor.
Any of these methods will allow you to see the file extensions in Windows 10, though.
Why Show File Extensions Anyway?
You might wonder why anyone needs to know how to view file extensions anyway. It can be important for a few different reasons.
One common reason is that you may have a file that you’re not able to open. Being able to see the file extension helps you identify what file type it is. From there, you may be able to find out what program you need to open it.
Another issue users sometimes run into is files that have the same name, but different formats. For example, you might have a Word document that’s saved in both the DOC and DOCX formats. If you can’t see the extension, you may not be able to tell which version is which.
That can be important when you want to open the file in another program or send it to a friend or coworker.
You’ll also need to know what type of file you’re dealing with if you want to convert it to another file type. You may also want to reset the default program that opens a file, but you’ll need to make sure the program you want to use handles the file type.
Knowing the file type can also help you identify files that could pose a threat to your system as well. It can even help you identify files that are crucial to keeping your computer running smoothly.
Knowledge is Power for File Management
Once you know how to show file extensions in Windows 10, you’ll be able to improve the way you manage your files.
Looking for more great advice on handling files, including conversion and other tips? We have a library of helpful guides designed just for you. With the right advice, you’ll be a master at managing your files in no time.