Opening Files

Tho I have had my IBM Aptiva/Windows 98 for over 2 years and use it at home everyday, I still feel like a rookie each time I sit here. New member, and have a question, be thankful for any help rec'd.... I have some files that I want to open. These are files I have had sent to me thru e-mail, but have experienced this problem in the past as well. When I click to open a file, the window pops up " use this program to open these files." I NEVER know for sure which program to use. Is there a "if you have this file--use this program" rule or list or something? I have some different files [eg. exe. gif. mdz. ppa.] but don't know which program to use. In the past I have tried to guess and once in a while hit paydirt!!! but more often than not I get the message that "this program cannot open this file" then I'm lost. Hope there is an easy answer or "list" to view, I'm an old bird with a lousy memory. Thankyou.

 

This might help out and come in handy:

Whatis' "Every File Format in the World" list:
http://whatis.techtarget.com/fileFormatA/0,289933,sid9,00.html

BUT this site is even better. It offers suggestions for known programs that run the extensions:

http://filext.com/

 

Files

Thank you for the answers so far..........hopefully I'll figure this out with your help. Will keep checking on the site for more hints, and I'll be back with more questions. First time I've tried one of these forums that actually work and I get a response to, and so quickly! Wow! Thanks again

 

Shucks, wasn't nothin' but your both welcome.

 

Hi Egglady,

I've been a follower of this board for close to three years and have found it to be the most helpful, user friendly forum around.

I too am a beginner and almost all of my posts are questions rather than responses - I'm not quick enough or learned enough to beat most of the whizzes on this board to post answers to others questions. So most of the time I spend on this board is simply reading others questions and the responses that pour in - which has been a real learning experience for me. If you have a legitimate question, it will be answered quickly and, usually, accurately. Occasionally, someone may post a response that is inaccurate, but someone is usually quick to point it out, nicely. And on occasion, a responder may come back and correct their own mistake.

Very few fanatics or flamers have ever ventured onto this board and when they do they are dealt with quickly.

Arie runs a tight ship - but a good ship.