Windows 11 hides file extensions such as .docx, .jpg, .pdf, and .exe by default. Showing them tells you exactly what kind of file you’re dealing with. It helps you rename or convert files, avoid opening a disguised malicious file (like “invoice.pdf.exe”), and tell apart files with the same name. This guide covers three ways to show file extensions in Windows 11, how to show them for one file only, how to change an extension safely, and how to hide them again.
Quick Answer
Open File Explorer, click View in the toolbar, point to Show, and click File name extensions so it has a check mark. Extensions now appear on all files. Click it again to hide them.
Method 1: File Explorer View Menu (Fastest)
- Open File Explorer (Windows key + E).
- Click View in the command bar.
- Point to Show.
- Click File name extensions.
The setting applies to all folders and stays on until you change it.
Method 2: Settings App
- Open Settings (Windows key + I).
- Go to System > For developers (called Advanced in some newer builds).
- Expand File Explorer and turn on Show file extensions.
The same section can also show hidden and system files and the full path in the title bar.
Method 3: Folder Options
- In File Explorer, click ⋯ (See more) > Options. Or search Start for File Explorer Options.
- Open the View tab.
- Uncheck Hide extensions for known file types.
- Click Apply, then OK.
This method also works in Windows 10 and older versions.
Method 4: Command or Registry (for Scripts)
Run this in Command Prompt or PowerShell, then restart File Explorer or sign out:
reg add HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced /v HideFileExt /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /fChange /d 0 to /d 1 to hide extensions again.
See One File’s Extension Without Changing the Setting
- Right-click the file and choose Properties. The Type of file line shows the extension, for example “JPG File (.jpg).”
- Switch File Explorer to View > Details and look at the Type column.
Common File Extensions
| Extension | File type |
|---|---|
| .docx, .xlsx, .pptx | Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents |
| PDF document | |
| .jpg, .png, .heic, .webp | Images |
| .mp4, .mov, .mp3 | Video and audio |
| .zip, .7z, .rar | Compressed archives |
| .txt, .csv | Plain text and comma-separated data |
| .exe, .msi, .bat, .ps1 | Programs and scripts that run code. Treat these with care. |
How to Change a File Extension Safely
- Turn on file extensions (see above).
- Right-click the file, choose Rename (or press F2), and change the text after the last dot.
- Click Yes on the warning.
Renaming doesn’t convert a file. Changing photo.heic to photo.jpg doesn’t make it a JPEG. It only works when the file really is that type, such as renaming a .txt to .csv or .bat. Use a proper converter for everything else.
Spot Disguised Malicious Files
With extensions visible, a file named invoice.pdf.exe shows its real .exe ending, a common trick in phishing emails. Don’t open unexpected .exe, .scr, .js, .vbs, or .bat attachments, even if the name looks like a document.
Showing extensions helps you avoid deleting .docx by accident when you rename a Word document.
Troubleshooting
Extensions still don’t show on some files
Some shortcut types (.lnk and .url) always hide their extensions. For regular files, restart File Explorer from Task Manager after changing the setting.
The View menu doesn’t have Show
Maximize the window. On narrow windows, View moves into the ⋯ menu. Or use Folder Options.
The setting keeps turning off
A work PC may enforce it through Group Policy. Contact your IT department.
Related: Change a TXT file to CFG.
Related: Change a file type in Windows 11.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to show file extensions?
Yes. It’s safer, because you can see exactly what a file is before opening it.
How do I show file extensions in Windows 10?
In File Explorer, click the View tab on the ribbon and check File name extensions. Or use Folder Options as in Method 3.
How do I hide extensions again?
Click View > Show > File name extensions again to remove the check mark.
Summary
- File Explorer: View > Show > File name extensions.
- Or Settings: System > For developers > File Explorer > Show file extensions.
- Or Folder Options: uncheck Hide extensions for known file types.
- Rename extensions only when the file really is that type.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.