Some systems are configured such that file extensions are not displayed. So instead of seeing a file whose name is "Data.txt" you only see "Data". This could get confusing if you have different types of files with the same name, like "Data.txt", "Data.jpg", "Data.xml", etc., as they would all show up simply as "Data". To eliminate such confusion, many users turn on the display of file extensions so that they can see the full name of every file.
To turn on the display of file extensions you need to display the Folder Options dialog box. To do this if you are using Windows 7, open Windows Explorer and on its toolbar click on Tools | Folder Options. If you are using Windows 8 or 10, open the File Explorer and click Options at the right side of the ribbon. Regardless of the version you are using, make sure the View tab is displayed in the dialog box. (See Figure 1.)
Figure 1. The View tab of the Folder Options dialog box.
The Hide Extensions for Known File Types checkbox determines whether the system should hide extensions for known file types. If you put a checkmark in this box, Windows hides the file extensions; this is the default setting for Windows. If the box is clear, then you'll see the full file name. Mark or clear this box to indicate your preference, then click the Apply to Folders button to apply this setting to all folders. When you are done you can click the OK button.
This tip (12372) applies to Windows 7, 8, and 10.
Windows Explorer has a good search utility built into it. As you use it, you may wish to save your commonly typed ...
Discover MoreA hidden file that the system uses to speed performance of your viewing folders containing pictures is called Thumbs.db. ...
Discover MoreNeed to know how much disk space is consumed by the small applications (apps) installed on your system? Windows makes it ...
Discover MoreThere are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)
Copyright © 2026 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.
Comments