OneDrive File Issues

How to View File Extensions in OneDrive Web Interface

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user wants to display filename extensions (such as .doc, .docx, .dotx, and .dotm) directly within the OneDrive web interface for easier file identification and management.

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Navigating and organizing files in the OneDrive web portal where distinguishing between similar file types is necessary.
Observed behavior: The OneDrive web interface currently does not provide a built-in setting to display file extensions, relying solely on icons to indicate file types.

Before you start

Ensure your OneDrive account is actively syncing with your local computer, as the most reliable way to view extensions involves checking your files through your local operating system.

Solution 1Recommended

View Extensions Using Local File Explorer

Since the web interface lacks this feature, syncing your files and using Windows File Explorer or Mac Finder is the best way to view all file extensions.

By syncing your OneDrive files to your local device, you can utilize the native file management tools of your operating system to reveal exact file extensions for all your documents.

Open your synced OneDrive folder

Navigate to the OneDrive folder on your local computer using File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac).

Enable file name extensions in Windows

In Windows File Explorer, click on the 'View' tab at the top of the window, and check the box next to 'File name extensions'.

Enable extensions on Mac

If you are using a Mac, open Finder, click on 'Finder' in the top menu bar, select 'Preferences', go to the 'Advanced' tab, and check 'Show all filename extensions'.

Real-time Sync: Changes made to files locally will automatically sync back to the OneDrive web interface, keeping your file formats intact.

Solution 2

Check File Properties in OneDrive Mobile App

If you are away from your computer, you can use the OneDrive mobile app to check specific file formats.

Solution 3

Submit Feedback to Microsoft

Request the ability to see file extensions directly from Microsoft to help prioritize this feature in future web updates.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why doesn't the OneDrive web interface show file extensions by default?

Microsoft designed the OneDrive web interface for simplicity and a cleaner aesthetic. It relies on distinct application icons (like the blue Word icon or green Excel icon) to indicate the file type to users, rather than displaying the text extensions.

Can I use a browser extension to force OneDrive to show file extensions?

Currently, there are no widely supported or reliable browser extensions that can inject file extensions into the OneDrive web interface. The interface dynamically loads file names from the server with the extensions already stripped for display.

Will downloading the file from OneDrive web reveal its extension?

Yes. When you select a file and click 'Download' in the OneDrive web interface, the file will be saved to your local computer with its full, original file extension intact.

Are file extensions visible to people I share OneDrive links with?

Generally, no. Recipients viewing shared files through the OneDrive web viewer will see the same simplified interface without extensions. However, if they choose to download the shared file, the correct extension will appear on their local device.

Document & File Issues