File Extension Problem?

Can’t Open a File or Program? Unknown File type Error?

Most computer users will be familiar with using files, however not all users will be aware of file extensions or what they mean.

File extensions are the suffix after the file name that lets you know what type of file it is. File extensions usually have three or sometimes four letters, preceded by a period and occasionally may even incorporate numbers.

An example of a file is mywork.doc – in this case mywork is the file name or root name and doc is the file extension, which tells you it is a Microsoft Word document.

Your PC needs to know the file extension so it can use the correct program to open the file. Occasionally you may see a message telling you your operating system does not know which program to use and asking you to select one to open the file. When this happens, it helps to know a little about what each file extension means and which application is needed to work with the file.

Below is a list of some common file extensions and the type of file they represent.
* xls – a spreadsheet created by Microsoft Excel
* pps – a Microsoft Power Point slide show
* dat – a data file
* bup – a backup file for a DVD IFO file
* odt – Open Office or Open Document text document
* db – a database file
* wmv – a Windows Media video file
* m4v – an iTunes video file
* ofx – Open Financial Exchange file
* aspx – ActiveX server pages of Microsoft.Net
* dll – Dynamic Link Library
* bin – a binary file or a CD image file
* pdf – portable document format created by Acrobat Reader from Adobe

Each application on your PC will have its own type of file extension. Whenever you work with or save data, you will be able to see which type of file extension is used by that particular program.
When you explore files stored on your computer, the file extension is usually hidden. This is a default setting on Windows. It is possible however to change this setting by going to the Control Panel and selecting Folder Options. Click on View and in the list that appears, locate ‘Hide file extensions for known file types’ and uncheck the box. The extensions will now be visible.

Some file types can be dangerous and may harm your PC by executing a virus or malicious script. Be particularly careful when opening email attachments and if you’re at all unsure of what they contain or if you don’t know the sender, it’s best not to open them at all, or if you must then check them first using your anti virus scanner.

There are many hundreds of file extensions in use today and although it would be impossible to learn what they all mean, it’s a good idea to get familiar with the most common types at least. Not only will it make your computing experience easier but can also keep your PC safe from harm.

Download this free scanner and find out just how clogged your Windows registry really is.

constant-content.com | March 20th, 2008
Tags: file extension, unknown file type
Categories: File Extensions

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