How to Delete a File Name Extension

by Lysis

Overview

File extensions are the trigger for a Windows operating system when loading the corresponding application. When you double-click a file name, the program starts and loads the file. The file extension controls this action. In Windows, you associate programs with file extensions, which is accomplished in the Windows Explorer options. Windows automatically hides extensions, but you can change this setting in Windows Explorer. Once you can view the file extension, you are free to change it.

Step 1

Click the Windows "Start" button and select the "Control Panel" icon. Within the new window that opens, double-click the "Folder Options" icon. This opens a Windows Explorer settings window.
Step 2

Click the "View" tab in the window. Check the mark labeled "Hidden files and folders." Next, remove the check mark labeled "Hide file extensions for known file types." This option is what hides the file extensions when you view them in the Windows Explorer. Click the "OK" button to save the settings.
Step 3

Navigate to the location of the file you want to edit. If you look at the file list in Windows Explorer, you notice that the file extensions are now displayed.
Step 4

Right-click the file you want to edit and select "Rename." The file name is highlighted and the extension is shown. Remove the file extension and press the "Enter" key.
Step 5

Click the "Yes" button at the confirmation screen. Windows warns you that the file may not open as expected when you change the file extension.

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When you remove a file extension, the associated program will no longer open. You can change the file extension back to the original to remedy this issue.
When you remove a file extension, the associated program will no longer open. You can change the file extension back to the original to remedy this issue.