See also: File | File Format
Example: “COMMAND.COM“
The ending characters on a file name such as “file.ZIP,” “sound.MP3,” or “movie.MPEG“. Often, these file formats are known by their extension.
Windows
Some versions of Windows often hide file extensions by default. One method to make them visible is to open “My Computer” … choose “Folder Options,” select the “View” tab and then unclick “Hide extensions for known file types.” Microsoft removed these Extensions to simplify the user experience.
One important use of file extensions in Windows is that they act as meta-data defining the contents of the file. For example .EXE files are executables, and renaming anything to a .EXE will cause Windows to attempt to execute it, even if it’s not actually executable code. Under UNIX the ability to execute files is based on additional security meta-data (read/write/execute permissions).
UNIX
Because file extensions are largely developed from DOS file systems, UNIX does not usually use them to identify files. Instead, it divides files into directories.
Files that UNIX considers “system” files, it makes less visible by adding a “.” in front of the file such as .bash-history or .xinitrc. Command-line users must type “ls -a” to see these files.
Related
- FILExt.com: The file extension source (http://www.filext.com) – Windows centralized.
TakeDown.NET -> “File-Extension”