How to view file extensions in Microsoft Windows

The information in this article applies to:

Windows XP, 2000, ME, 98, 95

QUESTION
I am unable to see the file extensions of my files while working in Windows Explorer or My Computer.

RESOLUTION

By default, Microsoft Windows is set to hide the extensions for known file types.

To display file extensions

1. Click the Windows Start button, point to Settings and click Control Panel.
   
    
2. If you are using Windows XP, 2000 or ME, select Tools> Folder Options from the menu. 
    
   •  If you are using Windows 95 or 98, select View> Folder Options from the menu.
3. 
   On the View tab of the Folder Options dialog:
   
   
   
   
   
    
   • Click in the box beside Hide extensions for known file types to remove the check mark.
     
      
   • Click the Apply to All Folders button near the top of the dialog.
     
      
   • Click the Apply button, then click OK.

 

That's it!