How to Show File Extensions and Hidden Files in Windows 11

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How to Show File Extensions and Hidden Files in Windows 11

By default, Windows 11 hides file name extensions (the .pdf, .docx or .exe at the end of a name) and hidden files and folders such as AppData. Support guides often ask you to find a hidden folder or check a file's real type, so it helps to know how to turn both on - and off again.

Show File Name Extensions

Open File Explorer (press Windows key + E).
On the toolbar, select View > Show.
Select File name extensions.

A check mark next to it means extensions are now visible everywhere in File Explorer. Select it again to hide them.

Show Hidden Files and Folders

Open File Explorer.
Select View > Show.
Select Hidden items.

Hidden files and folders now appear slightly faded, so you can tell them apart. Select Hidden items again to hide them.

To open AppData without showing hidden files, type %appdata% in the File Explorer address bar (or the Run box, Windows key + R) and press Enter. It opens the Roaming folder inside AppData; select AppData in the address bar to go up one level.

Using Folder Options (Older Method)

The classic Folder Options window has the same settings and a few more:

In File Explorer, select the three-dot menu (See more) > Options.
Go to the View tab.
Under Hidden files and folders, choose Show hidden files, folders, and drives.
Untick Hide extensions for known file types to show extensions.
Select Apply, then OK.

On the same tab there's Hide protected operating system files (Recommended). Leave it ticked unless a trusted guide tells you otherwise - these are Windows' own system files, and deleting or moving them can stop Windows from starting.

Newer Windows 11 versions also list some of these options under Settings > System > For developers > File Explorer. The page may not exist on older versions.

Why Showing Extensions Is Safer

Scammers name malware so it looks like a document - for example invoice.pdf.exe. With extensions hidden, it shows up as invoice.pdf. With extensions on, you can see the .exe and know it's a program, not a PDF. Be wary of any email attachment ending in .exe, .scr, .js, .vbs or .bat.

For more warning signs, see how to spot a phishing email before you click.

Careful When Renaming Extensions

With extensions showing, it's easy to change one by accident when you rename a file. Windows warns you: "If you change a file name extension, the file might become unusable."

Changing the extension doesn't convert the file. A Word file renamed from .docx to .pdf still isn't a PDF. Use Save As or Export in the app instead.
If you changed one by mistake, rename it back to the original extension.
Keep a copy of a file before changing its extension on purpose.

File Explorer Slow or Not Opening?

If File Explorer freezes when you open these menus, see File Explorer not responding in Windows 11.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I show file extensions in Windows 11?

Open File Explorer, select View on the toolbar, then Show, and select File name extensions. A check mark means extensions are shown.

Where is the AppData folder?

It is inside your user folder (This PC > C: > Users > your name > AppData) but hidden by default. Turn on View > Show > Hidden items in File Explorer, or type %appdata% in the address bar to open its Roaming folder directly.

Is it safe to change a file extension?

Changing the extension doesn't convert the file. A .docx renamed to .pdf will not open as a PDF. Only change an extension when you know the file really is that type, and keep a copy first.

Why should I show file extensions?

Extensions show what a file really is. A file called invoice.pdf.exe looks like invoice.pdf when extensions are hidden, but it is a program. Seeing the .exe helps you avoid opening malware.