file extensions Archives - Rick's Daily Tips

How to force Windows 10 to show file extensions in File Explorer

Posted on July 18, 2021

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For whatever reason, the folks at Microsoft have decided it’s a good idea to hide file extensions when using the File Explorer dialog in Windows 10.

I really don’t understand the thinking behind having file extensions hidden since they’re so useful for quickly determining a file’s type when viewing its filename.

In case you’re wondering how viewing a file’s extension can help you, here’s a great example (and it’s an important one).

Luckily, it’s very easy to force Windows 10 to display the file extensions when you view the names of files in File Explorer. Here’s how: [Read more…]

Q&A: How do I get OS X Yosemite to display file extensions on my Mac?

Posted on June 29, 2015

Question from Keitha D.: Hi Rick. I need your help with an issue I’m havingwith my Macbook Pro.

I recently upgraded from OS X Mavericks to Yosemite, and ever since the upgrade I can’t seem to view any file extensions. Can you tell me how to get them back?

Rick’s answer: [Read more…]

How to force Windows 8.1 to show all file extensions

Posted on February 20, 2015

windows-8-1 As they have with previous versions of Windows, Microsoft decided to hide “known” file extensions by default in Windows 8.1.

Why they would ever think it’s a good idea to hide them is beyond me, but of course the guys and gals in Redmond have had me scratching my head in wonder for years.

In addition to making it difficult to determine a file’s “type” while viewing it in a list, hiding file extensions also makes it easier for hackers to trick us into opening malicious files. Not a good thing!

As luck would have it, it’s very easy to prevent Windows 8.1 from hiding file extensions. Just follow these steps: [Read more…]