Guide | How To How to Show File Extensions in Windows XP, Vista, 7

The associated guide may contain user-generated or external content.

Jack

Administrator
Thread author
Verified
Staff Member
Well-known
Jan 24, 2011
9,377
Windows 7 and previous versions of Windows hide file extensions by default, which is a big security risk.
A common technique virus authors use is disguising a .exe file as .avi , .jpg, .doc, or .txt when it’s actually a executable file (.exe) making you run and install a malicious program.
For example a bad guy can name a malware “must-see-video.avi.exe”, if your file extension was hidden you would not realize the file was a .exe because you would only see “must-see-video.avi” and once you realized what you did it’s to late.


How Show File Extensions in Windows XP, Vista and 7

Show file extensions in Windows XP:

  1. Go to My Computer (WINKEY+E.)
  2. Click Tools
  3. Select Folder Options.
    ijwYx6.gif
  4. Click the View tab, uncheck Hide extensions for known file types, and click OK.
ijxa5E.gif


Show File Extensions in Windows Vista and 7 :

  1. Go to Computer (WINKEY+E.)
  2. Press the ALT key to show the action toolbar.
  3. Click Tools
  4. Select Folder Options.
    ilDHjM.png
  5. Click the View tab, uncheck Hide extensions for known file types, and click OK.
ilDJrU.png
 

About us

  • MalwareTips is a community-driven platform providing the latest information and resources on malware and cyber threats. Our team of experienced professionals and passionate volunteers work to keep the internet safe and secure. We provide accurate, up-to-date information and strive to build a strong and supportive community dedicated to cybersecurity.

User Menu

Follow us

Follow us on Facebook or Twitter to know first about the latest cybersecurity incidents and malware threats.

Top