How to Open Unknown Files

1. Navigate to the location of the unknown file on your hard drive. In Windows, the icon will appear as a blank piece of paper with the corner folded over. Double-click on this file and a dialogue box will appear. Choose the option 'Use the Web service to find the correct program' and press 'OK.'
2. Read the Web page that appears. It will either guide you to choose the correct program or will be unable to find the correct program. If it has failed, don't fret. There are other free Web services you can use to find the appropriate program.
3. Type 'openwith.org' in your browser's address bar and press 'Enter.' When the page loads, click in the blank field next to the 'Search!' button. Here, type in the letters following the period in your file name, such as 'SQL' or 'DOC.' Press 'Search!' and information will appear about the file type, including free programs available for download that can open that file type.
4. Download the program suggested and install it. This should create the proper association in Windows that will allow you to open the unknown file type. Try double-clicking on it again and see if it opens. If it doesn't, you can manually create an association.
5. Double-click the unknown file type and choose the 'Select a program from a list of installed programs' option. Click 'OK' and a window will appear showing several applications you have installed. Choose the desired application and press 'OK'. If it's not on the list, you can click 'Browse' and navigate to the installed location of the program. (Try looking in 'C:\Program Files').