Each file on the computer stores data of a certain type. For example, it can be text information, program codes, an image, sound, or something else. Intuitively, you already understand what a file extension is. Therefore, today we will supplement the gaps in knowledge and try to delve deeper into the topic.
Definition
The extension is the second part of the file name after the dot. As a rule, it consists of 2-4 characters. This designation simplifies the operation of the operating system, prompting it which information is contained in the document and which program should be used to open the file.
When you install any new program in the Windows registry, data is entered on what formats it can work with. It is thanks to this that pictures open in special galleries, and music - with the help of a multimedia player. If you wish, you can change the program that will be used to open files of a certain type.
Popular extensions
It is useful to know not only what a file extension is, but also what types of data are stored in different documents. Here is a list of the most common on Windows:
- Text: txt, .doc (.docx), .rtf.
- Web pages: .htm and .html.
- Archives: .zip, .rar.
- Images: .jpg (.jpeg), .png, .bmp, .gif, .tiff.
- Audio: .mp3, .wav, .wma, .cda.
- Video: .avi, .wmv, .mpg (.mpeg), .MPEG-4, .wmv, .flv, .vob, .mdv, .swf.
- Presentations: .ppt (.pptx).
- Tables: .xls (.xslx).
- Fonts: .ttf, .otf.
- E-books: .pdf, .epub, .fb2, .djvu.
- Databases: .mdb, .accdb.
- Executable (running or installing programs): .exe, .bat.
Tip: when working with documents of unknown formats, the Russian-language service Open-File.ru helps a lot. Just type in the name in the search in the directory, and you will see the basic information: what data the document contains (image, text, etc.), which suitable file extension program in which it can be opened.
Setting display extensions
By default, the operating system automatically displays the document format next to its name. However, at any time, you can make sure that file extensions in Windows are not displayed or, conversely, enable them. What do I need to do?
- Go to the "Control Panel".
- Find the "Folder Options" item . In Windows 7, it is called Folder Options, and in Windows 8 and 10 it is called Explorer Options.
- In the window that appears, select the "View" tab.
- Find the option "Hide extensions for registered file types" in the "More options" list and check the box next to it.
- Click "Apply" and close the window.
Please note: if the file extension in Windows 7 or another version of the OS is disabled, you need to be careful when renaming any documents. If you accidentally delete or modify this registry, the file will not be able to open.
How to change the extension
Now that you know what a file extension is, let's talk about how it can be converted. This is necessary if, for example, you want to open a file intended for one program in another application.
Strictly speaking, there are two ways to do this:
- Rename a document - just enter instead of the "native" extension what you need (for example, .html instead of .txt).
- Use special software converters. Some are installed on a PC, others are available online. They are resorted to if you need to completely change the encoding of the document.
If you want the information to be displayed correctly in another program, it is better to use full-fledged converters.
Of the popular services of this type, Convertio can be noted. This online converter supports most common file extensions, and also has a number of additional tools, such as compressing and combining PDF documents, a URL converter for extracting music and videos from websites, and recognizing scanned text.
How to change the program to open
And finally, consider the situation when you downloaded a new application and want to use it to work with certain documents. For example, change the standard program for viewing photos in Windows to Microsoft Office Picture Manager. How to do it?
- Select the desired file and open the context menu (right mouse button).
- Find Open With> Select Another Application.
- Select the desired program in the list that appears and check the box next to "Always use this application ...".
- Click OK.
This means that the system will now open such a file extension using the program you selected. In Windows 8 and 10, if no suitable application is found on the PC, you also have the opportunity to find it in the "Store".