File extension library

(The following is a paid review.) I found a cool resource on the web today that may be useful for a lot of people.

file extension 3gp is a website that lists a number of commonly searched file extensions with explanations about the file type, as well as basic troubleshooting information for Windows users.

I think the site is a great idea.In particular, the explanations of the file types are actually pretty good and not generic. For example, I clicked on the “.jar” extension, and I was happy to see an easy-to-understand explanation of the file type and how it is commonly used.

I wasn’t really impressed with the troubleshooting portion of this particular extension, mainly because it was a generic explanation which doesn’t really help a non-technical user fix the problem. A link to to “run a free scan” for errors takes you to a page to run an “.exe” file, which I honestly didn’t trust enough to try. (It is really unwise to run EXE files which don’t come from trusted sources. This site has Microsoft images next to their links, but I have no way of knowing their affiliation with Microsoft.)

All of that being said, I think the site needs a bit of work in a few places.

1. The site is missing some really obvious file extensions. I understand that they’re starting with the file types which receive the most search traffic, but not having something as obvious as “.html” is a bit confusing. Other file types like “.py” (Python), “.asp” or “.aspx” (Active Server Pages) are missing. As the site grows, I’m sure these will be added and I look forward to seeing them.
2. The user interface is a bit bland. They have a good logo, but the site’s navigation is sparse.
3. The site is definitely focused on Windows users, which might turn off Mac and Linux users.

Some advice from me:

• Get rid of the error scanning EXE files. Given the stated goal of your site, you should focus solely on providing information. If you’re going to offer a scanning application, brand it like AdAware (a downloadable application with a cool GUI).
• Add more file extensions.
• Work on your site navigation.

Overall, I think I’d give the site a “B”. I look forward to checking back on this site in a few weeks.