Windows File Extensions And Possible Issues

How does one keep track of all the different file extensions being used on a Windows computer?

Simply put, innumerable file types are used – and new ones are being added everyday – on any given computer, keeping track of all of them is impossible. But then does this lack of information prove a hindrance when resolving file-related errors?

The answer is in no. By following a few generic guidelines, you can aptly resolve most of the file extension issues.

In this article, we will cover the following topics:

• Examples of common file extensions.


• Common file extension issues on a Window PC.


• Steps to troubleshoot file extension issues.

3 Common File Extensions

• .bak file extension – the .bak extension denotes backup files. The .bak extension is used by numerous programs as well as the Windows operating system to backup data.


• .htt file extension – Files with the .htt extension represent Hypertext Template files that define the various settings in Windows.


• .xlr file extension - .xlr files are used for spreadsheets created using Microsoft Works, an office suite quite similar to the more popular Microsoft Office suite.

Common Issues Pertaining to File Extensions

• Unable to open a particular file type.


• A file type is not behaving in accordance with its normal behavior.


• File type errors occur when you try to open a particular file extension.

Steps to Resolve File Extension Issues

Run a malware scan

Malware programs often corrupt applications as well as important system files by altering the codes embedded in the files. An infected file, in turn, starts behaving erratically and may refuse to open with its default program. If you are experiencing a sudden upsurge in file-related issues on your computer, then chances are your computer’s security has been compromised.

To resolve the issue, reboot Windows in Safe Mode and run a malware scan on your computer. Before you reboot Windows in Safe Mode, update your security software with the latest malware definitions to allow it to identify and take appropriate action against the latest malware.

To reboot Windows in Safe Mode, follow the following steps:

1. Close all running applications and restart your computer.


2. Press and hold the F8 key with the restarting of Windows.


3. Select the Safe Mode option, using the arrow keys in the Advanced Windows Boot Options menu, and press the Enter key.

Run a registry scan

In case the error persists, chances are that the file-association information in the registry is incorrect or incomplete. To fix the issue, restore your registry’s integrity by performing a thorough registry scan using a professional Windows registry cleaning tool.

Use a reliable file extension repair tool

In case you are still unable to open the required file or receive a ‘cannot open the requested file’ error, then chances are that the damaged file openers on your Windows system are the culprit. To fix the matter, use a reliable file extension repair tool. Such tools quickly fix damaged file openers, allowing users to open, edit, or save the required file.