If you’ve ever needed to see the actual file extensions in Windows 10—like telling a.docx from a.txt or spotting fake disguised files—you’re probably frustrated that Windows likes to hide them by default. It’s kind of weird, but those extensions can be super helpful if you want to avoid opening the wrong file or accidentally sending something that isn’t what it seems. Thankfully, it’s a straightforward fix, and once you set it up, the extensions will stay visible until you decide to hide them again.
How to Show File Extensions in Windows 10
Go through the settings in File Explorer
Basically, you just need to tweak one setting in File Explorer—no need to dig deep into system settings. The idea is to check that tiny box for “File name extensions, ” and voilà—your files will display their extensions every time you open a folder. Just a heads-up, though: sometimes Windows acts a bit flaky and might not save this setting right away or after a reboot. On some setups, enabling it in one folder works, but in another, you’ll still see the hidden extensions. Weird, but that’s Windows for you.
Open File Explorer
- Click the folder icon in the taskbar or press Windows + E. That opens the Explorer window.
Navigate to the View Tab
- Once in File Explorer, click on the View tab at the top. That’s where all the customization options live.
Enable File name extensions
- Find the checkbox labeled File name extensions within this tab. It’s usually near the right side under the “Show/hide” group.
- Click on it to check the box. This instantly makes the extensions visible in all folders opened after.
Not sure why it’s hidden by default, but probably to keep things tidy for casual users. Anyway, this small toggle makes a big difference.
Check your files
- Go back to any folder with files—say your Downloads or Documents—and see those extensions appear next to filenames. This way, no more guessing if it’s a.png or a.jpg image or a suspicious-looking.exe file here and there.
Close File Explorer
- Once you’ve confirmed it works, just close the window. The setting sticks around—Windows likes to keep it that way unless you manually toggle it off later.
It’s kind of funny how Windows makes you manually turn on something that should, logically, be a default for security and clarity. But hey, that’s tech life—sometimes you gotta turn on extensions yourself.
Tips for Showing File Extensions in Windows 10
- It’s a good idea to keep extensions visible, especially if you mess around with different kinds of files often or want to avoid accidentally opening something malicious.
- Be cautious if you ever change file extensions—altering a.txt to.exe can turn your harmless file into a security risk or cause it to stop working.
- If you share your computer with others, mention that extensions are now visible so they don’t get confused or accidentally do the wrong thing.
- Use the visibility of extensions to quickly differentiate similar files—like telling apart a.png from a.bmp or a.jpeg, or spotting fake email attachments.
- Remember, seeing all extensions can help you spot potential scam files that are trying to look normal but are actually dangerous.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I see file extensions on my files?
Windows 10 hides them by default to keep things simple. You just need to switch that setting on as described above.
Can showing file extensions hurt my system’s performance?
Nah. It’s just a visual tweak. Your computer doesn’t care whether those extensions are visible or hidden.
What’s the point of a file extension?
It tells Windows and your programs what kind of file it is—like.mp3 for music or.pdf for documents—so the right app opens it.
Can I hide them again if I change my mind?
Sure thing. Just uncheck the File name extensions box in the View tab, and they’ll disappear again.
Are file extensions important for security?
Absolutely. They help spot potentially harmful files disguised as harmless ones. So, seeing extensions adds an extra layer of safety.
Summary
- Open File Explorer
- Go to the View tab
- Check the box for File name extensions
- Look at your files to confirm they show properly
- Close File Explorer
Wrap-up
Getting used to showing file extensions in Windows 10 can really make life easier—whether you’re avoiding mishaps or just trying to stay more in control of your file management. Not sure why Microsoft kept this hidden so long, but at least now it’s an easy toggle. Better safe than sorry, right? Hopefully, this shaves off a few hours for someone trying to sift through dozens of similar-looking files. Just remember, sometimes the little tweaks make a big difference.