How to Show File Extensions in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Key Notes

  • File extensions provide crucial information about file types.
  • Multiple methods exist to show file extensions, including File Explorer and Settings.
  • Using Command Prompt or PowerShell can activate file extensions directly.

Unlocking the Power of File Extensions in Windows 11

Understanding and displaying file extensions in Windows 11 enhances user experience and file management.

Displaying File Extensions Using File Explorer

Follow these steps to reveal file extensions in Windows 11:

  1. Open File Explorer by pressing Windows + E.

  2. Click the View button located in the command bar.

  3. Select the Show submenu and click on “File name extensions.”

Step 4: Enable Extensions via Folder Options

You can also enable file extensions through the Folder Options by following these steps:

  1. Open File Explorer.

  2. Click the See more button, then select Options.

  3. Select the View tab.

  4. Uncheck the “Hide extensions for known file types” option.

  5. Click Apply to save your changes.

  6. Click OK to exit the window.

Once these steps are completed, file extensions like .txt, .exe, and .docx will be visible in your File Explorer.

Enabling File Extensions Visibility via Settings

To enable file extensions using the Settings app, follow these instructions:

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Click on System.

  3. Select the For developers option.

  4. Locate the File Explorer section.

  5. Toggle the “Show file extensions” option to on.

After completing these steps, file extensions will become visible in your File Explorer.

Activating Extensions Using Command Prompt

Alternatively, you can use Command Prompt or PowerShell to activate file extensions by modifying the Registry directly. This method can also be included in a batch script if desired.

To enable file extensions via Command Prompt, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Start menu.

  2. Search for Command Prompt or PowerShell, right-click the option, and select Run as administrator.

  3. Type the following command and press Enter : reg add HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced /v HideFileExt /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f

After executing this command, file extensions will be visible in Windows 11’s File Explorer.

If you wish to revert this change, use the same steps but replace the command in step 3 with: reg add HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced /v HideFileExt /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f

Update October 30, 2024: This guide has been revised to ensure accuracy and to reflect any updates to the procedure.

Additional Tips

  • Regularly check if your extensions display correctly to avoid issues with file types.
  • If unsure about file types, consulting the file extension can prevent accidental usage of incorrect programs.
  • You can also enable or disable the setting for files of specific types based on your preferences.

Summary

Revealing file extensions in Windows 11 enhances file identification and management. This guide demonstrated methods using File Explorer, the Settings app, and Command Prompt for seamless viewing of file types.

Conclusion

Understanding file extensions is vital for efficient file management. By following these simple steps, you can effortlessly configure Windows 11 to show file extensions, ensuring you always know exactly what file type you’re working with.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Why should I enable file extensions in Windows 11?

Displaying file extensions helps you quickly understand what type of file you’re dealing with, allowing you to open it with the correct application.

Can I revert back once I show file extensions?

Yes, you can easily revert the change by following the same steps and selecting the option to hide file extensions instead.