Windows 11 How to Show File Extensions in Simple Steps

Have you ever opened a folder and wondered whether that file named report is a Word document, a PDF, or something else? In Windows 11, file extensions help you instantly identify file types — like .docx, .pdf, .jpg, or .exe.

However, by default, Windows hides these extensions to make things look cleaner. The good news? You can easily change that!

In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to show file extensions in Windows 11 using multiple simple methods — through File Explorer, Folder Options, Control Panel, and even Command Prompt.

By the end, you’ll know exactly what file extensions are, why they matter, and how to manage them safely.

What Are File Extensions in Windows 11?

Every file on your computer has a file extension, which appears after the dot in the file name. It tells Windows what type of file it is and which program should open it.

For example:

If Windows hides extensions, photo.jpg might just appear as photo. That can lead to confusion — or even security risks — if you mistake one file type for another.

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Why Show File Extensions in Windows 11?

Here’s why you should keep file extensions visible:

• 🔍 Better Identification — Instantly recognize file types without guessing.

• ⚙️ Security Awareness — Avoid opening fake or malicious files (like invoice.pdf.exe).

• 🛠️ File Management — Rename or convert files easily.

• 💼 Developer Convenience — Essential for programming, scripting, and web development.

• 🎓 Learning and Transparency — Understand how your operating system organizes files.

In short, showing file extensions gives you more control and reduces the risk of errors.

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How to Show File Extensions in Windows 11 — Quick Overview

Here’s a quick summary before we dive into details:

Now, let’s explore each step in detail.

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Method 1: Show File Extensions via File Explorer

This is the fastest and easiest way to display file extensions in Windows 11.

Step 1: Open File Explorer

Press Windows + E or click the File Explorer icon on the taskbar.

Step 2: Open the View Menu

At the top, click on View.

Step 3: Enable File Name Extensions

Navigate to:
View → Show → File name extensions

✅ Once checked, you’ll instantly see extensions for all files (e.g., .jpg, .txt, .exe).

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Method 2: Use Folder Options to Show File Extensions

If you want more control, you can use the Folder Options menu.

Step 1: Open File Explorer

Open any folder and click on the three dots (…) in the toolbar.

Step 2: Select Options

Choose Options → Folder Options.

Step 3: Go to the View Tab

Under Folder Options, select the View tab.

Step 4: Change the Setting

• Scroll down to find “Hide extensions for known file types.”

• Uncheck this box.

• Click Apply → OK.

Now, file extensions will appear for all files system-wide.

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Method 3: Enable File Extensions Using Control Panel

Prefer the traditional route? You can also use the Control Panel.

Step 1: Open Control Panel

Press Windows + R, type:

and hit Enter.

Step 2: Go to File Explorer Options

Navigate to:
Appearance and Personalization → File Explorer Options

Step 3: Adjust Settings

• Go to the View tab.

• Find Hide extensions for known file types and uncheck it.

• Hit Apply and OK.

That’s it — the setting is applied system-wide.

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Method 4: Show File Extensions via Command Prompt

You can also toggle file extension visibility using Command Prompt — perfect for IT admins or power users.

Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator

Search cmd → Right-click → Run as administrator.

Step 2: Run the Command

Enter the following:

This sets the registry value to 0, enabling file extension visibility.

Step 3: Restart Explorer

To apply changes, restart File Explorer:

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Method 5: Use Registry Editor (Advanced Users)

If you’re comfortable editing the Windows Registry, here’s another method.

⚠️ Warning: Editing the registry incorrectly can cause system instability. Always back it up first.

Step 1: Open Registry Editor

Press Windows + R, type:

and press Enter.

Step 2: Navigate to the Key

Go to:

Step 3: Modify the Value

• Find the HideFileExt entry.

• Double-click it and set Value data to 0.

• Click OK and close Registry Editor.

Restart your PC or File Explorer for the changes to take effect.

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How to Hide File Extensions Again

If you prefer the cleaner look and want to hide extensions again:

1. Open File Explorer.

2. Click View → Show → File name extensions to uncheck it.

Or in Folder Options:
Re-check “Hide extensions for known file types.”

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Common File Extensions You Should Know

Here’s a quick cheat sheet of the most common Windows file extensions:

Knowing these helps you spot unsafe or suspicious files quickly.

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Can You Change a File Extension in Windows 11?

Yes, but you need to be cautious. Changing extensions can alter how Windows interprets the file.

To Change an Extension:

1. Show extensions using the methods above.

2. Right-click the file → Rename.

3. Change .txt to .html, for example.

4. Press Enter and confirm.

⚠️ Warning: Changing a file extension doesn’t actually convert the file — it just changes how Windows tries to open it.
Example: Renaming photo.jpg to photo.pdf won’t make it a PDF.

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Risks of Hiding File Extensions

When extensions are hidden, it’s easier for malware to disguise itself.

Example:

If extensions are hidden, it might show only as Invoice.pdf — tricking you into opening a virus.

That’s why showing extensions is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself from phishing or malware attacks.

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Tips for Managing File Extensions Safely

• ✅ Keep extensions visible — always know what you’re opening.

• 🧠 Avoid renaming system files.

• 🧩 Use antivirus software to scan unknown files.

• 🔒 Don’t double-click suspicious .exe or .bat files.

• 💾 Back up important files before making changes.

These small habits can save you from big headaches later.

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Troubleshooting: File Extensions Still Not Showing?

If extensions don’t appear even after enabling them, try this checklist:

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Conclusion: Simplify Your Windows 11 File Management

Now you know exactly how to show file extensions in Windows 11 — in simple, clear steps.

By enabling this setting, you gain transparency, security, and better control over your files. Whether you prefer doing it via File Explorer, Control Panel, or Command Prompt, the process is quick and easy.

Next time you see a suspicious email attachment or a confusing file name, you’ll be ready to identify it instantly — no surprises, no mistakes.

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FAQs

1. How do I show file extensions for all files in Windows 11?

Open File Explorer → View → Show → File name extensions, and make sure the box is checked.

2. Why can’t I see file extensions even after enabling them?

Restart File Explorer or your PC. If it persists, verify settings in Folder Options.

3. Is it safe to show file extensions in Windows 11?

Yes! It’s actually safer because it helps you identify suspicious or fake files.

4. Can I show hidden files and extensions together?

Yes. In View → Show, enable both Hidden items and File name extensions.

5. Will changing a file extension convert it to another format?

No — it only changes the label, not the content or structure of the file.

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Summary: Key Takeaways

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In short:
Learning how to show file extensions in Windows 11 is one of the easiest ways to take control of your files and stay safe online. Whether you’re managing photos, documents, or system files — seeing those tiny “.jpg” or “.exe” endings can make a big difference.