How To Rename File Extension In Windows 7

The proper noun of a file on your Windows 7 reckoner consists of ii parts. When you view files in Windows Explorer it displays only the kickoff function, the file extension is hidden. The file extension is used to specify the file blazon and associate it with a program. Thus, Microsoft Word documents have the extension .doctor or the new .docx.

File extensions are generally 3 or 4 characters long. Since these not displayed in Windows Explorer, users come to know of the file blazon by the file icon. Below is a screenshot of the music folder of my computer. Though most files are .mp3, there are some .mp4 songs as well just there is no way to distinguish between the two, unless they were associated with different programs; say, MP3 files with Winamp music player and AAC (.m4a) with iTunes.

Why is the file extension hidden in Windows 7?

Since the extension associates the file with a particular programme, irresolute information technology would cause issues in opening and/or viewing the file. For case, replacing .mpg with .doc as the file extension will cause all sorts of trouble since Microsoft Word volition non exist able to open up the video file. Microsoft understands this danger and has, thus, kept the file extensions hidden by default.

Two ways to change the file extension in Windows 7

There are 2 methods you lot can utilize to modify the file extension. The first one involves using the familiar Windows Explorer program and the second, the Command Prompt. The latter requires you to know a couple of DOS commands and would sound a little intimidating for the beginner.

Windows Explorer method of changing the file extension
You showtime demand to become file extensions to bear witness in Windows 7. This can rapidly be done by changing the settings via the Control panel – delight refer that link for details.

To change the file extension using Windows Explorer, click the file once, expect for a second or two and then click on it again. Merely the beginning part of the file will exist selected – refer image below.

Only the file name proper is selected when you click in Windows Explorer

But we need to modify the file extension, right? Thus, select that and change it to whatever you want.

Change the file extension in Windows 7 via Windows Explorer

Windows 7 might bear witness a warning message (below) – ignore it and click the "OK" button.

Warning message displayed when you change the file extension in Windows 7 operating system

Use DOS commands through the terminal window
Open up a last window from "Programs" -> "Accessories" -> "Command Prompt". Motility to the binder that contains the file/s whose extension you want to change. Use the cd control to change directory. Type in the following command; y'all obviously need to substitute the file names (in the foursquare brackets] with the one you lot have and the one you want.

ren [old file proper name] [new file name]

The DOS command for renaming a file is ren and with it y'all tin can give a new proper name to any file… not just a new extension. Likewise techie? Forget I ever told you lot most this and become with the Windows Explorer method described above.

Source: https://www.webdevelopersnotes.com/change-file-extension-windows-7

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