Have you ever downloaded a file and had no idea what it was or how to open it? Whether it is a .dmg file on Windows or a mysterious .iso image, identifying the correct format is the first step. Our Interactive File Extension Finder helps you understand the purpose of any file and recommends the best software for the job.
Enter a file extension above to learn what it is and how to open it.
Common File Extensions Explained
If you are setting up a new PC, you will likely encounter these common formats. Here is a quick guide:
- Executables (.exe, .msi): These are installation files for Windows. Simply double-click to run.
- Archives (.rar, .zip, .7z): Used to bundle multiple files together. You need a tool like WinRAR to extract them.
- Disk Images (.iso, .img): These represent entire disks. Use a tool like Rufus to create bootable USBs.
- Mobile Packages (.apk): Used specifically for Android devices.
How to use the Finder Tool
- Locate the extension: Look at the end of your filename (the letters after the last dot).
- Type it in: Enter it into our search box above (e.g., “apk”).
- Get Info: Click search to see the file’s category and the recommended software to open it.
Edit Your Files: If you have identified a text-based file extension, you can use our Bulk Text Cleaner to organize its content. For a comprehensive database of all known file types, we recommend visiting FileInfo.com.