System & temporary files · .ini
What Is an INI File?
A .ini file is a plain text settings file for a program.
- Extension
- .ini
- Full name
- Configuration settings file
- Type
- System file
Free INI Tools
These run in your browser. Your INI files are never uploaded.
About INI Files
INI files store settings as plain text, grouped into sections in square brackets with key=value lines, such as [Display] and width=1920. Windows programs and games have used them for decades, and many apps still do. You can edit them in any text editor, but back up the file first, because a wrong value can stop the program from working. Desktop.ini files in Windows folders control how a folder looks.
How to Open an INI File
- Any device
- Open it in Notepad, TextEdit or any text editor.
INI File Questions
Can I delete desktop.ini?
Yes, but the folder may lose its custom icon or name. Windows recreates it when needed.
How do I edit an INI file?
Open it in a text editor, change the value after the = sign, and save. Back it up first.