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File Extensions - What Are File Extensions?

In general terms, a file format in the PC world signifies what type of information is containing in a particular file. These are usually designated by the one to four (usually three) characters (the extensions) after the period in a filename. For example:

Filename: readme.txt
The "txt" designates the file format of this particular file, a plain-text file.

Filename: game.exe
The "exe" designates the file format of this particular file, an executable file.

Note that file extensions do not always signify the type of information inside a file; sometimes programmers hide the type of content inside a file with fake extensions. Also, some filenames may have multiple file extensions that can trick you into opening a Trojan Horse. However, this is a Windows tweak that can help you find files with multiple extensions.

More information about these and other particular file type can be found in this section's tips on MalekTips.