Each file in Windows 10 and 11 has its properties with all sorts of data, such as creation date, modification date, size, attributes, owner, item type, file path, etc. All this information helps the file system store, sort, and index files, providing users with easy and quick access.
Windows allows changing some of those parameters in the Properties window without installing third-party apps. For example, you can add, edit or remove description, rating, comments, and other metadata from a specific file’s properties. Still, there are some notable limitations. If you want to change file creation date in Windows 10 and 11, the bad news: the standard File Explorer and the properties window cannot help you with this task. Windows can change file created date using a small third-party app. It is free and without ads, plus it provides many powerful tools for managing file metadata.
How to Check Windows File Created Date?
The simplest and easiest way to find file creation date in Windows is to hover the cursor over the file in File Explorer. Wait for a second for Windows to display a small tooltip containing basic information about the object: item type, size, creation date, etc.
Still, some file types do not display the creation date in tooltips. In such a case, right-click the file and select Properties. File created date will be on the General tab.
Finally, you can press Ctrl + Shift + 6 in File Explorer to change the view to the table. Then, right-click the top of the table and place a checkmark next to the Date created option.
Can I Edit the File Creation Date in Windows 10?
Yes, you can change file created date in Windows 10 and 11 using the app called BulkFileChanger. If you do not want to use third-party apps, then the answer to your question is no. In this article, we will show you how to edit the file creation date in Windows. BulkFileChanger is a handy tool for scenarios when you need to spoof file properties (for reasons).
How to Change the PDF Creation Date in Windows 10 (and Other Files)?
You can change the PDF creation date (and other file formats) by downloading a free portable app called BulkFileChanger. You can get it from the official website. The app does not require installation and works as a “portable” executable file.
- Open the downloaded exe file as Administrator. You will get a somewhat ancient-looking file manager window. Disregard the looks as you will not spend much time there.
- Click File > Add Files.
- In a new File Explorer window, find the file you want to edit (change the file creation date, edit date, open date, etc).
- Your file should appear in the list of files inside the BulkFileChanger window.
- Now click Actions > Change Time/Attributes. Alternatively, select your file and press F6.
- In a new window, place a checkmark next to the time attributes you want to change, for example, “Created.” This will let you change file created date in Windows 10 and 11. Note that the date and time have separate checkmarks. If needed, repeat the same step for the Modified and Accessed properties.
- Enter a new date and time, then click the Do it button to save the changes.
Note that there is a drop-down list where you can add additional attributes, such as the content created time, EXIF data, etc.
Some other third-party file managers might have built-in capabilities that allow you to change the file creation date in Windows 10. Still, we find the BulkFileChanger the best option for modifying file attributes in Windows 10. It does not require installation, and it is free.