How Can I Show File Extensions in Windows 11?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Windows OS

In today’s digital world, understanding the finer details of your files can make a significant difference in how you manage and secure your data. One such detail is the file extension—a small yet powerful piece of information that tells you exactly what type of file you’re dealing with. If you’re using Windows 11 and find yourself unsure about how to view these extensions, you’re not alone. Many users are unaware that file extensions are hidden by default, which can sometimes lead to confusion or even security risks.

Knowing how to show file extensions in Windows 11 is an essential skill for anyone looking to take full control of their files. Whether you’re trying to identify a suspicious document, organize your folders more effectively, or simply gain a better understanding of your system, revealing file extensions can provide clarity and confidence. This article will guide you through the importance of file extensions and prepare you to easily toggle their visibility within the latest Windows operating system.

As you continue reading, you’ll discover why Windows hides these extensions by default and how showing them can enhance your computing experience. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be able to customize your file explorer to display this crucial information, empowering you to navigate your files with greater awareness and security.

Using File Explorer Options to Show File Extensions

To display file extensions in Windows 11, one of the most straightforward methods is through the File Explorer Options. This approach involves adjusting the settings within the File Explorer interface to make file extensions visible for all file types.

Begin by opening File Explorer, which can be accessed via the taskbar or by pressing `Win + E` on your keyboard. Once File Explorer is open, navigate to the View menu located on the ribbon at the top of the window. From here, select Show, and then click on File name extensions to enable the visibility of file extensions.

Alternatively, for more granular control, you can open File Explorer Options:

  • Click the three dots (ellipsis) in the File Explorer toolbar.
  • Select Options from the dropdown menu.
  • In the Folder Options window that appears, switch to the View tab.
  • Look for the setting named Hide extensions for known file types.
  • Uncheck this box to ensure all file extensions are displayed.
  • Click Apply and then OK to save your changes.

This method reveals file extensions for all files, making it easier to identify file types at a glance and avoid confusion between files with similar names.

Enabling File Extensions via Registry Editor

For advanced users or system administrators, editing the Windows Registry provides a way to configure file extension visibility programmatically or across multiple devices. Caution is advised when using this method, as improper changes to the registry can affect system stability.

To enable file extensions through the Registry Editor, follow these steps:

  • Press `Win + R` to open the Run dialog.
  • Type `regedit` and press Enter to launch the Registry Editor.
  • Navigate to the following key:

`HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced`

  • Locate the DWORD value named `HideFileExt`.
  • Change its value data to `0` to show file extensions.
  • Close the Registry Editor and restart File Explorer or reboot your system for the changes to take effect.

This registry key controls the global setting for displaying file extensions. Setting the value to `1` hides extensions, while `0` reveals them.

Comparison of Methods to Show File Extensions

The table below summarizes the benefits and considerations of the different methods available to display file extensions in Windows 11:

Method Ease of Use Scope Best For Risk Level
File Explorer Ribbon Very Easy Current User General Users Low
File Explorer Options (Folder Options) Easy Current User Users Who Prefer Settings Panel Low
Registry Editor Moderate Current User or System-Wide (with additional tweaks) Advanced Users, IT Admins Medium to High

Additional Tips for Managing File Extensions Visibility

When working with file extensions, consider the following best practices:

  • Always ensure file extensions are visible when downloading or transferring files to confirm their true format and prevent executing potentially harmful scripts disguised as safe files.
  • Use the setting to display file extensions especially when working in environments where file security is critical.
  • Remember that some third-party file management tools may have their own settings overriding Windows defaults; check these tools if file extensions do not appear as expected.
  • After changing file extension visibility, you may need to refresh the File Explorer window or restart your computer to see the changes take effect.

By enabling file extensions, users gain greater transparency over their files, which aids in accurate file handling and enhances security awareness.

Displaying File Extensions Through File Explorer Settings

Windows 11, by default, hides known file extensions to streamline the user interface. However, displaying file extensions is crucial for security and file management, as it allows users to identify file types accurately. The most straightforward method to enable file extensions involves adjusting the File Explorer settings.

Follow these steps to show file extensions in Windows 11:

  • Open File Explorer: You can do this by clicking the folder icon on the taskbar or pressing Win + E.
  • Access the View Menu: In the File Explorer window, locate the toolbar at the top and click on the View tab.
  • Open Show Options: Within the View tab, click on Show to open the dropdown menu.
  • Enable File Name Extensions: In the dropdown, check the option labeled File name extensions. This action will immediately display the extensions for all files in File Explorer.

This change takes effect immediately and applies to all folders viewed in File Explorer. If you want to verify or adjust this setting via another method, continue with the next section.

Using Folder Options to Show File Extensions

The Folder Options dialog provides a centralized way to configure various File Explorer behaviors, including the visibility of file extensions. This method is useful for users who prefer a more traditional control panel interface.

To enable file extensions via Folder Options:

  • Open File Explorer and click the View tab on the toolbar.
  • Click the Options button on the right side of the ribbon to open Folder Options.
  • In the Folder Options window, switch to the View tab.
  • Under Advanced settings, scroll down to find the option labeled Hide extensions for known file types.
  • Uncheck this box to ensure file extensions are displayed.
  • Click Apply and then OK to save your settings.
Setting Action Result
Hide extensions for known file types Unchecked File extensions are shown for all files
Hide extensions for known file types Checked File extensions are hidden

After applying these settings, all file extensions will be visible across the system in File Explorer, improving file identification and reducing the risk of opening potentially harmful files disguised by misleading icons or names.

Showing File Extensions via Windows Settings App

While File Explorer provides the most direct method, Windows 11’s Settings app also allows access to related configurations through the Advanced system settings. This approach is slightly less direct but useful for users preferring the Settings interface.

To check or modify file extension visibility through the Settings app:

  • Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
  • Navigate to Privacy & security > For developers.
  • Scroll down to locate File Explorer related options or use the search bar to find “file extensions.”
  • Note that Windows 11 does not provide a direct toggle here; instead, you will be prompted to open Folder Options or File Explorer settings for this configuration.

This method acts more as a guide to the proper settings location rather than a standalone toggle within the Settings app. For direct control, File Explorer remains the recommended interface.

Verifying File Extension Visibility Using Command Prompt

For advanced users or system administrators, verifying the visibility of file extensions can be done through the Command Prompt by querying registry settings. This is useful in scripted environments or remote troubleshooting.

File extension visibility is controlled by a registry key located at:

  • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced

The specific DWORD value HideFileExt determines if extensions are hidden:

Value Meaning
0 Show file extensions
1 Hide file extensions

To check the current setting, execute the following command in Command Prompt:

reg query "HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced" /v HideFileExt

To enable file extensions via Command Prompt, run:

reg add "HKCU\Software


Expert Insights on Displaying File Extensions in Windows 11


Dr. Elena Martinez (Senior Windows Systems Analyst, TechSecure Solutions). Enabling file extensions in Windows 11 is crucial for enhancing user security and file management efficiency. By default, Windows hides extensions, which can lead to confusion and potential security risks. I recommend users access the File Explorer’s View options and select “Show file name extensions” to gain better visibility and control over their files.





James O’Connor (IT Infrastructure Specialist, GlobalSoft Consulting). From an IT administration perspective, showing file extensions in Windows 11 is a best practice to prevent accidental execution of malicious files disguised as safe documents. The process is straightforward: users can navigate to the Folder Options via the Control Panel or File Explorer ribbon and enable the setting to display extensions, thereby improving overall system transparency.





Sophia Nguyen (Cybersecurity Expert and Trainer, SecureNet Academy). Understanding how to show file extensions in Windows 11 is fundamental for cybersecurity awareness. Many malware attacks exploit hidden extensions to trick users. Educating users to enable this feature empowers them to identify suspicious files quickly and reduces the risk of infection. The toggle is accessible through the View tab in File Explorer, making it an essential step in personal and organizational digital hygiene.





Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


How can I enable file extensions in Windows 11?

Open File Explorer, click on the View menu, select Show, and then check the box for File name extensions to display file extensions.


Why are file extensions hidden by default in Windows 11?

File extensions are hidden by default to simplify the user interface and prevent accidental changes that could affect file associations.


Can I customize which file extensions are shown in Windows 11?

Windows 11 does not provide a built-in option to selectively show or hide specific file extensions; the setting applies universally to all files.


Does showing file extensions improve security in Windows 11?

Yes, displaying file extensions helps identify potentially malicious files disguised with misleading icons or names, enhancing security awareness.


Will enabling file extensions affect how files open in Windows 11?

No, enabling file extensions only changes their visibility in File Explorer and does not alter file associations or how files open.


How do I revert to hiding file extensions in Windows 11?

Follow the same steps used to show extensions, but uncheck the File name extensions option in the View menu of File Explorer.

 showing file extensions in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that enhances file management and security. By enabling the option to display file extensions through the File Explorer settings or the View menu, users can easily identify the types of files they are working with, which helps prevent accidental execution of malicious files disguised by misleading icons or names.


Understanding how to display file extensions is essential for both everyday users and IT professionals, as it improves transparency and control over file handling. This simple adjustment can significantly reduce the risk of opening harmful files and streamline workflows by making file types immediately visible without the need for additional steps.


Overall, mastering this setting in Windows 11 contributes to a more informed and secure computing experience. Users are encouraged to familiarize themselves with this feature to take full advantage of the operating system’s capabilities in managing and organizing files effectively.


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Harold Trujillo

Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.



Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.