Changing File Extensions

Problem

How to change file extensions in Microsoft Windows. This is mainly for MacNail accounting software/ estimating software, but it may also apply to exports from Goldenseal business management software or prep of files to import.

Diagnosis

WIN 95-- From Start button, choose Programs. Choose Windows Explorer from the submenu.
from View Menu, choose Options. Click the View tab. Turn off the checkbox labeled "Hide MS DOS File extensions for file types that are registered "

WIN 98- in MS Explorer click Tools, Folder Options, View. Turn off "Hide file extensions"

Win 2000-- Click Start button, choose Settings, choose Control Panels. Double-click on Folder Options. Click the View tab. Turn OFF the checkbox for "Hide File Extensions for known file types".

Win XP-- Click Start button, choose Settings, choose Control Panels. Double-click on Folder Options. Click the View tab. Turn OFF the checkbox for "Hide File Extensions...".

Win Vista and 7-- Click Start button, choose Settings, choose Control Panels. Click the Classic View link. Double-click on Folder Options. Click the View tab. Turn OFF the checkbox for File Extensions...".

Solution

Once the above is done, just retype the extension.

HINT-- For MacNail users, it's a good idea to keep extensions showing. For Goldenseal accounting software it doesn't matter (except maybe when importing outside data).

Comments

Here is another link that also has instructions for setting windows file extensions.

Entered 1/20/04 by Casey. Updated 11/5/2010.