Showing file types in Windows 11 isn’t too tricky, but since Windows tends to hide that stuff by default, it can be a bit of a pain. The good news is, once you reveal those extensions, it’s a whole lot easier. It’s like opening a window on what’s really inside each file—no more guesswork if that .jpg is actually an image or a sneaky executable.
Step-by-Step Tutorial to Show File Type in Windows 11
Basically, you want to flick the switch so Windows stops hiding those extensions. Here’s how you do it:
Step 1: Open File Explorer
Press Windows key + E — quick way to fire up File Explorer, your digital shed. On some setups, this shortcut might not work straight away if there are some custom configs, but most of the time, it’s dead easy.
Step 2: Grab the View Tab
When File Explorer opens, look at the top and click on View. That’s the tab where all the display toggles are hiding. Some folks click it and get a bit overwhelmed, but just find the part labelled Show or Layout, depending on your version (Windows 11 sometimes rearranges things).
Step 3: Tick “File name extensions”
This is the main move: on the View tab, find the checkbox for File name extensions and give it a tick. On some setups, this might be off by default, so don’t worry if you don’t see them straight away—just turn it on.
Fun fact: if you can’t see this option, it might be because your Windows is set up to hide extensions via the Registry or Group Policy. You’ll need to tweak a few deeper settings then.
Step 4: Check it works
Hop into any folder with files, and you should see those little .jpg, .txt, or .exe suffixes now. If they’re not showing up right away, give it a second or restart File Explorer—sometimes it just needs a quick refresh. On some machines, a reboot might be the way to go.
Step 5: Close File Explorer
When you see those extensions, you’re all set. Now, managing files is way safer—know immediately if you’re about to open a dodgy .bat instead of a legit .docx. It’s a simple step, but it can save a lot of headaches down the track.
Tips for Showing File Type in Windows 11
- If you’re installing a fair bit of third-party software, keep extensions visible—some malware dresses itself up with fake filenames that look legit until you see the real extension.
- Use Keyboard shortcut Windows key + E to open File Explorer quick as a flash.
- On some setups, toggling the extension view might be cached—if it’s not showing straight away, try reopening File Explorer or a quick log out and back in.
- If you often switch between hiding and showing extensions, consider creating a shortcut with Folder Options or setting a custom quick access link to toggle via registry if you’re feeling tech-savvy.
- Remember: some file types (like .bat, .exe) can run code even if you don’t see the extension, so always keep an eye out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I see file extensions on my PC?
Because Windows likes to keep things tidy and defaults to hiding them. It’s a design choice, but luckily, it’s easy enough to turn back on.
Can I show file types for just certain folders?
Not really—File name extensions applies everywhere. Turn it on, and you’ll see extensions across the board, not just in specific folders. That’s just Windows being Windows.
Is showing file extensions a good idea?
It’s not essential, but it’s pretty handy—helps avoid opening dodgy files or accidentally running nasty stuff. Plus, it makes sorting and troubleshooting a lot easier.
How do I hide extensions again?
Just untick the File name extensions box in the View tab. Easy as. That’ll hide those suffixes again.
Will showing file extensions slow Windows down?
No worries—it’s just a visual setting. It doesn’t affect how Windows runs or performs, just makes your file list a bit busier to look at.
Summary
- Open File Explorer with Windows key + E
- Head to View
- Tick the box for File name extensions
- See those extensions pop up
- Close the window—and get back to it all
Hopefully this makes things a bit easier for you. Seeing those extensions clearly can save the day more times than you’d think. Not really sure why Windows makes it so complicated—maybe so you don’t stuff things up too often—but now, you’re in the driver’s seat.