How to Email an .EXE File

Many email programs will not allow executable files (EXE files) to be sent or received as email attachments. There is a workaround that will allow a user to send an EXE file as an email attachment, even when the EXE file type is disallowed. Rename the file extension of the EXE file to TXT, or another file extension that is allowed as an email attachment. Follow up with instructions for your recipient in the body of the email to rename the file extension back to EXE.

Instructions

1. Click the Windows "Start" button and click "Open Explorer" to open the Windows Explorer file manager.

2. Click the "Tools" option on the top navigation bar, and then click "Folder Options."

3. Uncheck the check box in front of the "Hide File Extensions of Known File Types" option and click "OK." This action will display the file extensions along with the file name, allowing the user to easily change the extension.

4. Right-click on the EXE file and click "Rename."

5. Type a file extension such as TXT over the EXE file extension.

6. Click "Yes" to verify the renaming action. Now, Windows sees the file as a text file, and the icon changes from an executable icon to a text document icon.

7. Compose a new email and attach the TXT/EXE file as an attachment. Be sure to tell the recipient to change the file extension back to EXE to run the executable file.

Resources

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