By default, Windows 7 hides file extensions like .docx, .jpg, and .exe for common file types. That makes file names look tidy, but it also makes it harder to tell file types apart, rename extensions, or spot dangerous files disguised as documents (such as invoice.pdf.exe). This guide shows how to make Windows 7 display extensions for every file.
Note: Windows 7 no longer receives security updates. Showing file extensions is one simple way to reduce risk on an older PC, but upgrading is strongly recommended.
Quick Answer
Open any folder, click Organize > Folder and search options, open the View tab, uncheck Hide extensions for known file types, and click OK.
Method 1: From Windows Explorer
- Open Windows Explorer (click the folder icon on the taskbar, or press Windows + E).
- Click Organize on the toolbar and choose Folder and search options.
- Click the View tab.
- Under Advanced settings, uncheck Hide extensions for known file types.
- Click OK. Extensions now appear after every file name.
The setting applies to all folders.
Method 2: From Control Panel
- Click Start > Control Panel.
- Set View by to Large icons and click Folder Options (or go to Appearance and Personalization > Folder Options).
- On the View tab, uncheck Hide extensions for known file types and click OK.
Method 3: Using the Menu Bar
Press Alt in any Explorer window to show the menu bar, then click Tools > Folder options and follow the same steps.
Show Hidden Files Too
On the same View tab, select Show hidden files, folders, and drives to reveal hidden items. Leave Hide protected operating system files checked unless you need to see system files; deleting them can damage Windows.
Change a File’s Extension
- With extensions visible, right-click the file and choose Rename (or press F2).
- Change the text after the last dot, for example .txt to .csv.
- Click Yes when Windows warns the file may become unusable.
Changing an extension doesn’t convert the file; it only changes which program Windows uses to open it. Use proper conversion tools for formats like images or documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I show file extensions?
It helps you identify file types at a glance and spot suspicious files like “photo.jpg.exe” that pretend to be something else.
How do I hide extensions again?
Re-check Hide extensions for known file types in Folder Options.
Is this the same in newer Windows?
Similar. In Windows 10, use View > File name extensions; in Windows 11, View > Show > File name extensions.
Summary
- Open Explorer and choose Organize > Folder and search options.
- Go to the View tab.
- Uncheck Hide extensions for known file types.
- Click OK.
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.