NO EXTENSION FILES
Certain files such as HOSTS, PROTOCOL, and NETWORKS have no apparent file extension; however there is a dot [.] at the end of their filename that is not seen. Using this hidden dot, it is possible to open these "no extension" files [& their shortcuts] directly in an application of choice by creating a "." type file as follow:

1- Open Windows Explorer 2- Select Tools from the Menu Bar 3- Select Folder Options 4- Select the Files Type Tab 5- Select New Type 6- In the "Description of Type" box, type in "No Extension" [no quotes] 7- In the "Associated Extension" box, type in a "." [no quotes] 8- In the "Actions" box, select the "New" button 9- In the "Action" box, type "Open" [no quotes] 10- In the "Application used to perform action" box, browse to application of choice, usually Notepad.exe. 11- Select the OK, Close & Close buttons in turn.

1. As an alternative to the above method, this NO Extension Registry entry can be used.
2. To open any unassociated file type [including no-extension files], here's a free offering from http://www.geocities.com/thestarman3/OAF99.htm: Open Any File . It will open unassociated files in Notepad [or app of choice] via a double-click. Also places Notepad in the Context Menu.
3. Users of X-Setup can use this Plugin to open No Extension files via the Context Menu.

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