Canonical: https://screensie.com/knowledge-base/files-storage/files-folders/show-file-extensions/

Make Windows display extensions such as .pdf, .jpg, and .exe. In File Explorer select View > Show > File name extensions. Follow the steps in order and.

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Files & Storage


# How to Show File Extensions




## How do I show File Extensions?




In File Explorer select View \> Show \> File name extensions.




Make Windows display extensions such as .pdf, .jpg, and .exe.




Updated 
September 2, 2026
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 6 min
Applies to: Windows, Windows 10, Windows 11


 


Follow the steps in order and stop if the screen or target does not match what is described. Use administrator access only when the task requires it.




**Before you begin**


Save open work. Confirm that you are working on the intended computer and that you are authorized to make the change.




## Open File Explorer




Press Windows + E.




## Open View options




In Windows 11 select View \> Show. In Windows 10 select the View tab.




## Enable extensions




Select File name extensions.




## Use the full name for safety




Check the final extension before opening downloads; a file named invoice.pdf.exe is an application, not a PDF.




## Rename carefully




Changing an extension does not convert a file and can stop its application from recognizing it.




**Verify the result**


Repeat the relevant check and confirm the intended result before considering the task complete.


 


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