Show File Extensions in Finder on macOS

I always recommend setting your operating system to display file extensions at all times whether the file type is known or unknown.

The reason is simple: malware can easily pretend to be something it’s not.

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For example, an executable file can disguise itself as a PDF or an image file. If you’re not careful, opening it could compromise your system.

If you’re on macOS, you probably use the Finder app daily to browse files on your system. Here’s how to make Finder always show file extensions:

• Open the Finder app.
• Click on the Finder menu → Settings…
• Go to the Advanced tab.
• Check the Show all filename extensions option.

That’s it! Finder will now always display filename extensions, so you can easily identify the true type of each file—no more impostors pretending to be something else.

Video

Conclusion

As usual, if you have any questions or a better method, leave a comment below. Thanks for reading, and see you next time!