How to Change File Extensions in Windows 10

Image contains File Explorer, File Explorer Options window, and warning message when trying to change file extensions

There are many situations that can make you think to change file extensions in Windows 10. For example, if a file is saved with an incorrect extension, you want to use a new default application to open the file or if you want to refuse execution of the file.


How to display file extensions in Windows 10

By default, file extensions are hidden in Microsoft Windows. To enable file extensions, go to the Windows 10 search bar, type file options, then click File Explorer Options.

In the File Explorer Options window, select the view tab, unchecked “Hide extensions for known files type” in the Files and Folders section, then click OK when done.


Or


Right click on Start, then click File Explorer.

Select View, then check File name extensions.


How to change a File Extension in Windows

This post contains two methods to change file extensions on Microsoft Windows:

Firstly, you can change file extension with the software you use to save the file.

Secondly, you can use file explorer to change file extension on Microsoft Windows.

To be able to see the extension of a file on Windows 10, remember to uncheck ” Hide extensions for known file types ” in folder options, advanced settings in the display tab.

Select the file you want to change the extension.

Right click on it and select rename.

Add the new extension you want for the file and press Enter.

A window will appear with a message like this:

If you change a file extension, the file might become unusable.

Are you sure you want to change it?

Click Yes


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