Change File Type on Windows 10: 4 Quick Ways to Do It

First remove the checkmark next to Hide extensions for known file types

Windows 10

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by Srishti Sisodia 

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Key notes

  • If the file has the wrong file type, then Windows might be unable to open it.
  • To fix this, you can change the file type using Windows Explorer or use online services to convert the file.
change file type windows 10

The file extension of the respective item lets the operating system identify what type of file it is and what software is needed to open it.

Sometimes, you cannot open the file as the file format is incorrect. In that case, you need to change the file type.

This guide covers how to change the file extensions on your Windows 10 computer. Let’s get started!  

What can I do to change the file type on Windows 10? 

1. Use the Windows Explorer

  1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer. 
  2. Go to the View tab, and click Options.
  3. Select the Change folder and search options.change file type windows 10 - Folder options
  4. In the Folder Options window, switch to the View tab.
  5. Remove the checkmark next to Hide extensions for known file types.
  6. Click Apply, then click OK. Folder options - change file type windows 10
  7. Go to the file you want to change the extension, right-click, and choose the Rename option. 
  8. Change the file extension with the new extension, then press Enter. 
  9. On the following prompt, select the Yes option. 

2. Online converters 

  1. Go to the online converter website, such as Zamzar.Zamzar - change file type windows 10
  2. Select the file, and drag it to upload the file.
  3. Choose the file type and click on Convert. 
  4. Once the file is converted, download it.

3. Use Save as feature 

  1. Some programs, such as MS Paint and MS Office, come with the Save As feature.
  2. Open a file, and go to the File menu.
  3. Select Save As. Save As PNG -change file type windows 10
  4. Choose the selected file type and save the file with a new name. 

4. Run the Ren command 

  1. Select the file for which you want to change the file format, press the Shift key and while holding the key, right-click on it to open Advanced options. 
  2. Click the Open PowerShell window here. Open PowerShell Window - Open PowerShell Window -change file type windows 10
  3. Copy and paste the following command and press Enter: ren filename.extension newfilename.newextension

So, these are methods you can follow to change file type on Windows 10. If there are questions or concerns about the topic, feel free to mention them in the comments below. 

More about the topics: windows 10

Srishti Sisodia

Srishti Sisodia Shield

Windows Software Expert

Srishti Sisodia is an electronics engineer and writer with a passion for technology. She has extensive experience exploring the latest technological advancements and sharing her insights through informative blogs. Her diverse interests bring a unique perspective to her work, and she approaches everything with commitment, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn. That's why she's part of Windows Report's Reviewers team, always willing to share the real-life experience with any software or hardware product. She's also specialized in Azure, cloud computing, and AI.