The correct answer is D. Hide extensions, because Windows File Explorer hides known file extensions by default, which can cause confusion when renaming files. When extensions are hidden, a user may unknowingly change only the visible filename and not the actual file extension.
The Quentin Docter – CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide explains that Windows uses file extensions to determine file type associations. If file extensions are hidden, renaming a file from Document.txt to Document.xml may actually result in Document.xml.txt, even though only Document.xml is displayed.
The Travis Everett & Andrew Hutz – All-in-One Exam Guide states that to properly change a file’s extension, users must enable “File name extensions” in File Explorer. This allows the user to see and modify the true extension, ensuring the operating system recognizes the correct file type.
The Mike Meyers / Mark Soper Lab Manual reinforces that options such as indexing, personalization, or formatting do not affect how Windows interprets file types. Only visibility of file extensions allows accurate renaming.
Therefore, disabling the “Hide extensions for known file types” setting is required to correctly change the file type, making D the correct answer.
