Windows Forum

Ask something
Discussion Locked

Viewing file types

0 helpful
3 replies

by elemental

Closed to new repliesThis discussion is closed. It stays readable, but it takes no new replies.

I'm not quite sure how ask this question so I hope this makes sense.

I have, from time to time, received files with extentions that I cannot open, when I try I get that pop-up window with a list of file types to chose from, and the "Open File With" question.

Why is that? I would think that if I have a file type that can open it, it would with out asking me.

Also, what about the file types in my computer that ask me the same question?

i.e. those with the "gear icons" or the "window icons"

How can file types that I don't, or do, have in my computer be opened?

Are there programs that just do this, allow you to open any kind of file type?

Or, are there settings that I need to apply or change to the existing file types already instaled in my computer, that will allow me to do this?

Thank You

Jose Antonio

3 replies

by dklippert

The file extension is used to determine what program can open the file. These are registered when the program is installed. In most cases the file cannot be opened or manipulated without the program. For instance a .XLS file needs Excel.
Here is a site the lists most all the extensions and let's you know which progam may be needed:

http://www.filext.com/

Usually after you use "Open With" and choose to "Always Use" that application will then be associated with that type of file.

by elemental

Thank you for the website info. I'll look into it.

However, (and maybe my question wasn't clear) the "Why" as to it relates to my question;
"Also, what about the file types in my computer that ask me the same question? i.e. those with the"gear icons" or the "window icons"
that I can't open is still not answered. If my computer can use them, shouldn't I be able to open them?

This discussion is closed to new replies.