How to Show File Extensions in Windows 10/11

File extensions in Windows help identify the type of file you’re dealing with (like .txt for text files, .jpg for images, or .exe for applications). By default, Windows 10 and 11 hide these extensions, which can make it hard to know exactly what kind of file you’re opening. This guide shows you step-by-step how to display file extensions using multiple methods.

Why Show File Extensions?

• Security: Prevent opening potentially harmful files disguised as safe types (e.g., “file.pdf.exe”).
• Clarity: Know exactly what type of file you’re editing or running.
• Control: Easily rename files with the correct extensions when needed.

Method 1: Using File Explorer Options

This is the most direct method using the Windows interface.

For Windows 10:

1. Open File Explorer (Windows key + E).
2. Click the “View” tab at the top.
3. Check the box labeled “File name extensions”.
4. File extensions will now appear for all files.

For Windows 11:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the “View” menu on the toolbar.
3. Hover over “Show” and select “File name extensions”.
4. Extensions are now visible next to file names.

Method 2: Using Control Panel

This method works similarly for both Windows 10 and 11.

1. Press Windows + R, type control, and press Enter.
2. Go to Appearance and Personalization > File Explorer Options.
3. Switch to the View tab.
4. Uncheck the option “Hide extensions for known file types”.
5. Click Apply, then OK.

Method 3: Using Windows Registry (Advanced)

If the above options are restricted or unavailable, the Registry Editor offers a deeper alternative. Be cautious and back up your registry before proceeding.

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced

1. Find the entry named “HideFileExt”.
2. Double-click and set its value to 0.
3. Close the Registry Editor and restart your PC.

Method 4: Using Command Prompt (Optional)

This method is quick for experienced users or IT admins.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type the following command:

reg add “HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced” /v HideFileExt /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f

1. Press Enter, then restart the system or log out and back in.

My Take

Personally, enabling file extensions has saved me more than once. I remember almost opening what I thought was a PDF—but thanks to the visible “.exe” extension, I dodged a sketchy file. For anyone doing even basic file management, this small tweak goes a long way.

Conclusion

Showing file extensions on Windows 10 or 11 is a simple yet powerful adjustment. Whether you prefer toggling it in File Explorer or diving into the Registry, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of your files and a bit more control over your system’s behavior.