Multifarious Ways to Detect File Type Without Extension

  author
Written By Nimisha Ramesh  
Anuraag Singh
Approved By Anuraag Singh 
Published On February 13th, 2016
Reading Time 3 Minutes Reading

Most of us are able to identify a file type with just its icon. However, not every computer user is familiar with icons, so the next best option for them is to look for the file extension. A file extension represents the type of file, which associates it to a particular application of its origin. In some conditions, where the file extension either may have been purposely hidden or is not visible by default, things become difficult for users. Therefore, this segment discusses how to detect file type without extension provided.

Workarounds to Detect File Type Without Extension

The file extension may be hidden for a user but is still associated with the file, which can be found out by applying a few workarounds. Some of them have been listed below:

Google It!

Google is the answer to all our queries, then why not this. In this case, the file extension must be known. Therefore, this method will only be helpful if you can view a file extension but cannot recognize it. Google search the file extension and you will come across a number of knowledgebase websites representing detailed information about the file, the application to which it belongs, and more.

This way you can find out about the origin application and applications that support accessing the file type.

File Signature

Identifying Files that don’t have an Extension

If a file does not have an extension, it still has a file signature. You can identify the format of that file from its file signature. All file types have a standard and unique signature and this data is stored in the file itself. There are programs that can read this signature and determine the file format even if the extension is missing from the file name. All you have to do is get a freeware hex editor that can represent the hexadecimal structure of the file. The first set of bytes in a file represents a signature, which, in most cases, is 2-4 bytes long. If you are capable enough to identify it on your own well and good, otherwise, there is always Google one click away.

Alternatives to Detect File Type without Extension

The web is full of possible solutions for every problem that you may come across. If nothing works in your case, simply go for a freeware program available online. These free to download utilities are easy to use and give results straightaway without requiring the user to put in any efforts from their end. Methods mentioned above, including the use of a third party freeware tool will certainly workout your problem. Also, make sure that the file extensions are not hidden on purpose in your machine. Windows has the option to hide file extension and some users tend to use it to avoid situations where instead of renaming a file they end up changing its file extension and corrupting it.

  author

By Nimisha Ramesh

Nimisha Ramesh is a dynamic professional known for her expertise in content and brand strategy. With a passion for crafting compelling narratives, Nimisha excels at creating content that not only engages but also aligns with brand objectives. Her strategic approach to content development and brand management has made her a valuable asset in reaching broader audiences and driving business success.