Windows 11 hides the file extensions of known file types by default. This can make it difficult to recognize the file type without first opening it.

Fortunately, you can configure Windows 11 to show extensions for known file types. The method is similar to Windows 10, but the option is now organized in a dropdown menu instead of the "View" tab in the File Explorer ribbon.

To show file extensions in Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Open File Explorer by clicking the program icon in the taskbar at the bottom of the Windows desktop (you can also type the "Windows + E" shortcut or open a folder by double-clicking it).
2. Select View → Show → File name extensions (if you return to this setting, a checkmark should now be visible).

Now, Windows 11 shows file extensions for all known files on your computer, as you can see in the image above.

NOTE: To hide file extensions, deselect File name extensions in the View → Show dropdown menu.

Alternative Method: Folder View Settings

You can also show and hide file extensions in Windows 11 by modifying the folder view settings in File Explorer. To do so:

1. Open File Explorer, click the "See more" (three dots) icon, and select Options.
2. Select the "View" tab, uncheck the checkbox next to "Hide extensions for known file types" in "Advanced settings," and click OK or Apply.

NOTE: To hide file extensions again, check the checkbox next to "Hide extensions for known file types" in "Advanced settings," and click OK or Apply.