What Is the File Extension Editor?

A file extension editor changes one file extension to another file extension, usually for troubleshooting purposes. The simplest way to do so is to use the native Windows 7 file extension editor.

Identification

A file extension is a number of characters appended to a file name after a dot that identifies what sort of file it is. For example, .doc is the file extension of a Microsoft Word document file.

Function

To use the Windows 7 file extension editor, open Windows Explorer and press the "Alt" key. Click the "Tools" menu, and select "Folder Options." Click the "View" tab, and uncheck "Hide extensions for known file types." Click "OK" to make file extensions viewable and editable.

Potential

To edit a file extension, right-click a file and select the "Rename" option. Rename only the file extension, which is the part of the file name after the dot. Click "Yes" once the file extension is renamed, and the edit is complete.

References

• Programmer Fish: How to Change File Extension in Windows 7
• Tech Terms: File Extension