How do I change a file’s extension in Windows?

Changing a file’s extension in Windows can be done in several ways.

Windows 95/98

1. Right-click on the file that needs to have its extension changed. A menu will appear.

2. Choose “Rename” from the menu. The file name will become highlighted.

3. Type in the new extension you would like for the file. Do not include the period.

4. Press enter and the extension is changed.

Windows 2000

1. Right-click on the file that needs to have its extension changed. A menu will appear.

2. Choose “Properties” from the menu. A window will appear with information about the file.

3. Click on the “General” tab at the top of the window.

4. Locate the “Attributes” section at the bottom of the window and select the check box titled “Hidden”. This will allow you to view and edit the file extension.

5. Scroll down and locate the “Name” field. Type in the new extension you would like for the file. Do not include the period.

6. Click “OK” and the extension is changed.

Windows XP

1. Right-click on the file that needs to have its extension changed. A menu will appear.

2. Choose “Properties” from the menu. A window will appear with information about the file.

3. Click on the “General” tab at the top of the window.

4. Scroll down and locate the box titled “File Name Extensions”. Select the check box titled “Hide extensions for known file types” so that it is unchecked. This will allow you to view and edit the file extension.

5. Locate the “Name” field. Type in the new extension you would like for the file. Do not include the period.

6. Click “OK” and the extension is changed.