EX_ File – What is .ex_ file and how to open it?

Definition of EX_ Files

EX_ files, with the .EX_ extension, are renamed Windows executable files. They are originally executable files (.EXE) that have been renamed for various purposes, such as hiding them from view, preventing execution, or avoiding conflicts with other programs. When a .EXE file is renamed to .EX_, its functionality is not affected, but its appearance changes in the operating system. This allows users to easily identify and manage these files, while preserving their original functionality.

Uses and Applications of EX_ Files

EX_ files are commonly used in various scenarios. One common use case is to hide executable files from unauthorized access. By renaming them to .EX, users can prevent casual users from accidentally executing or altering these files. Additionally, EX files are often used to prevent automatic execution of scripts or programs that should not be executed immediately. By renaming the executable to .EX, users can manually execute the file only when necessary. Another use case involves resolving file conflicts. When two or more executable files have the same name, renaming one of them to .EX can help avoid conflicts and allow both files to coexist without interference.

Understanding EX_ File Extension

The EX_ file extension denotes “Renamed Windows Executable File.” This extension is assigned to executable files (.EXE) that have been renamed, altering their original filename. When a user renames an EXE file, Windows adds the EX_ extension to the end of the filename. This helps prevent accidental execution of the renamed file, as Windows recognizes the EX_ extension as a sign that the file is not a genuine executable.

Opening and Managing EX_ Files

To open EX_ files, one can simply rename them back to their original EXE filename. Once renamed, the files can be executed as regular executable programs. Alternatively, users can use a hexadecimal editor to manually remove the EX_ extension from the file header. However, this method is not recommended for non-technical users as it requires advanced knowledge and can potentially corrupt the file. It is important to note that, by default, Windows Explorer hides file extensions, so the EX_ extension may not be visible unless the “show hidden files and folders” option is enabled in the Folder Options settings.

Renamed Windows Executable File

The “.EX” file extension, short for Renamed Windows Executable File, is a file format used by Microsoft Windows to store renamed executable files. When a user renames an executable file (e.g., “.EXE” or “.COM”), Windows automatically creates a corresponding “.EX” file that contains the original filename. This “shadow file” ensures that the original filename is preserved, even if the renamed executable is moved, copied, or otherwise manipulated.

The “.EX” file acts as a placeholder, storing the original filename as metadata. It is not an executable file itself and does not contain any executable code. However, the presence of an “.EX” file prevents the user from renaming the executable file back to its original name. This mechanism serves as a security measure to protect against accidental or malicious changes to executable files.

Other Extensions