How to Convert an EXE File to a JPEG File

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Converting an executable (.exe) file to a picture (.jpg) format is not difficult. The typical process does not actually physically convert the file, but it does lead someone to believe that she is opening a .jpg image file when in fact she is running an executable. As you continue through the creation process, please keep in mind that both the original and shortcut files must remain within the same folder.

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Step 1

Right-click on the PC desktop, and select "New," "Folder" to create a new folder.

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Step 2

Double-click on the folder to open.

Step 3

Select "Tools," "Folder Options," and click on the "View" tab.

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Step 4

Scroll down the Advanced Settings list and select "Show hidden files and folders." Remove the checkmark from "Hide extensions for known file types." Click "Apply" to save the new setting. Click "OK."

Step 5

Copy the .exe file source into the newly created folder. For this example, we will refer to it as test1.exe.

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Step 6

Right-click on the test1.exe file and select "Rename" from the shortcut menu.

Step 7

Type in the desired new file name (e.g., test2.jpg.) and press "Enter."

Step 8

Select "Yes" when Windows displays the following warning: "If you change a file name extension, the file may become unusable. Are you sure you want to change it?"

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Step 9

Right-click and drag test2.jpg and select "Create Shortcuts Here" from the shortcut menu.

Step 10

Rename the shortcut with an .exe extension (e.g., test3.exe).

Step 11

Right-click on the .exe shortcut (test3.exe) and select "Properties" from the shortcut menu.

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Step 12

Remove all text from the "Start in" field.

Step 13

Change the contents of the "Target" field to "C:\WINDOWS\system32\cmd.exe /c test2.jpg".

Step 14

Click on the "Change Icon" button and select an icon for the shortcut. Click "OK" to save the new icon.

Step 15

Click "Apply" and "OK" to save all Property changes, close the Properties window and complete the process.

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