Windows: Change file extensions - how it works

In this guide you will read how to change file extensions in Windows.

Change file extensions in Windows 7

To change the file extension, you must first activate it in Windows Explorer:

1. Open the folder with the files to be changed in Windows Explorer.
2. Click on "Organize" in the menu bar and then on "Folder and search options".
3. Switch to the "View" tab. Remove the checkmark at "Hide extensions of known file types" and close the window with "OK".
4. Select a file in Windows Explorer and press the F2 key. You can now easily change the file extension and rename the element.

Change file extensions in Windows 8 or Windows 10

The procedure is similar under Windows 8 or Windows 10:

1. Open the folder with the files to be changed in Windows Explorer.
2. Click on "View" in the menu bar. Then check the "File name extensions" box.
3. Select a file in Windows Explorer that you want to rename and press the F2 key. You can then change the file extension.

If you have a problem with an unknown file format, this practical tip will help you.