Attribute Changer

What is Attribute Changer?

Attribute Changer is a powerful, free Windows Explorer extension that seamlessly integrates into the Windows file system, providing users with advanced file and folder property modification capabilities directly from the right-click context menu. Developed by Romain Petges, this Swiss Army knife of file management tools has been helping Windows users efficiently modify file attributes, timestamps, EXIF data, and filename cases for years. Unlike built-in Windows properties dialogs that offer limited modification options, Attribute Changer provides comprehensive control over nearly every aspect of file metadata.

What sets Attribute Changer apart is its elegant integration into Windows Explorer’s existing interface. Rather than requiring users to launch a separate application, the tool appears as a context menu option whenever you right-click on files, folders, or even entire drives. This unobtrusive approach ensures quick access to powerful features without cluttering the desktop or system tray. Whether you’re a photographer managing thousands of images, an IT professional maintaining file systems, or a regular user wanting better control over file properties, Attribute Changer delivers professional-grade functionality with consumer-friendly accessibility.

Key Features of Attribute Changer

Comprehensive Attribute Modification: Attribute Changer allows modification of all standard Windows file system attributes including ReadOnly, Hidden, Archive, System, Compress, and Index. These attributes control how Windows and applications interact with files, and Attribute Changer provides granular control over each setting. The tool supports bulk operations, enabling users to modify attributes for thousands of files simultaneously with a single operation.

Date and Time Stamp Control: One of Attribute Changer’s most valuable features is complete control over file timestamps. Users can modify Created, Modified, and Accessed dates and times with precision down to the second. This functionality is invaluable for organizing file systems, correcting timestamps after file transfers, or ensuring files display in desired chronological orders. The tool supports various input methods including manual entry, relative adjustments, and synchronization between different timestamp types.

EXIF Photo Data Management: For photographers and digital asset managers, Attribute Changer provides extensive EXIF metadata editing capabilities. Users can modify photo information including capture dates, camera settings, GPS coordinates, and other embedded metadata. The tool allows manual entry of values or automatic synchronization between EXIF data and file timestamps, ensuring consistency across all metadata fields. This feature is particularly useful for batch-correcting photos from cameras with incorrect date/time settings.

Filename Case Conversion: Attribute Changer includes sophisticated case conversion tools that can transform filename and extension cases across multiple files. Options include uppercase, lowercase, title case, and sentence case conversions. This feature streamlines the organization of file collections transferred from different operating systems or created by various applications with inconsistent naming conventions.

Preview and Simulation Mode: Before committing changes to your file system, Attribute Changer’s preview mode lets you see exactly what modifications will occur. This safety feature prevents accidental changes and allows users to refine their selections before applying potentially irreversible operations. The simulation mode is especially valuable when working with large file sets or critical data.

Advanced Filtering System: The built-in filter system instructs Attribute Changer to include or exclude files and folders based on multiple criteria such as attributes, dates, times, sizes, and name wildcards. This powerful feature enables surgical precision when modifying properties across complex directory structures, ensuring only intended files are affected.

XML-Based Scripting: Power users can automate repetitive tasks using Attribute Changer’s XML-based scripting system. Scripts can be created, saved, and applied to different file sets, eliminating manual configuration for frequently performed operations. This automation capability transforms Attribute Changer from a simple utility into a professional workflow tool.

Template System: Common modification patterns can be saved as templates for instant recall and application. This feature saves time when repeatedly applying the same attribute changes, timestamp adjustments, or naming conventions across different file groups.

Comprehensive Logging: All changes made through Attribute Changer can be logged for auditing and troubleshooting purposes. The logging system records what changes were made, when they occurred, and to which files, providing accountability and enabling reversal of unwanted modifications when necessary.

Randomization Features: For testing scenarios or special use cases, Attribute Changer can randomize timestamps and other properties within specified ranges, generating realistic-looking file collections for development and testing purposes.

What’s New in Attribute Changer

The latest version, Attribute Changer 11.40b Build 2025.8.12 released on August 12, 2025, includes important updates and improvements. The software now features full compatibility with Windows 11 ARM architecture, ensuring users running Windows on ARM-based processors can enjoy the same powerful file management capabilities as traditional x86/x64 users.

Recent updates have focused on improving performance when handling extremely large file sets, with optimizations enabling faster processing of directory structures containing tens of thousands of files. The user interface has received subtle refinements improving clarity and accessibility, particularly in high-DPI display environments common on modern laptops and monitors.

The EXIF handling engine has been updated to support additional metadata fields found in newer camera models and smartphones, ensuring comprehensive photo management capabilities for contemporary digital imaging equipment. GPS coordinate editing has been enhanced with improved validation and format support.

Security improvements include better handling of protected system files and enhanced permission checking to prevent accidental modification of critical operating system components. The logging system now provides more detailed information about operations, including better error reporting when modifications cannot be completed.

System Requirements

Operating Systems:

• Windows 11 (32-bit, 64-bit, and ARM editions)
• Windows 10 (32-bit and 64-bit editions)
• Windows 8.1 (32-bit and 64-bit editions)
• Windows 8 (32-bit and 64-bit editions)
• Windows 7 (32-bit and 64-bit editions)
• Windows Vista (32-bit and 64-bit editions, with SP2)
• Windows XP (32-bit with SP3, limited support)

Hardware Requirements:

• Processor: 1 GHz or faster processor
• RAM: 512 MB minimum (1 GB or more recommended for large file operations)
• Hard Drive: 10 MB free space for installation
• Display: 1024×768 resolution or higher recommended
• Administrative privileges required for modifying system files

Additional Requirements:

• Microsoft .NET Framework 4.0 or later (usually pre-installed on Windows 7 and later)
• Sufficient disk permissions for target files and folders
• Windows Explorer (core component of Windows)

Download Guide

Attribute Changer can be downloaded from the official website at petges.lu, which offers the most current version directly from the developer. Alternative download sources include reputable software archives such as Softpedia, MajorGeeks, FileHorse, and Uptodown. When downloading from third-party sites, verify the file integrity and ensure you’re obtaining the official, unmodified version.

The software is available in two variants: a standard installer version and a portable version. The portable edition requires no installation and can run from USB drives or network locations, making it ideal for IT professionals servicing multiple computers.

Installation Steps:

1. Download the installer or portable package from a trusted source
2. For the installer version, run the executable with administrator privileges
3. Follow the installation wizard, accepting the license agreement
4. Choose installation location (default is recommended)
5. Select whether to create desktop shortcuts and Start Menu entries
6. Complete the installation process
7. Restart Windows Explorer or reboot to ensure full integration
8. Test the installation by right-clicking any file and selecting “Change Attributes” from the context menu

For Portable Version:

1. Extract the ZIP archive to your preferred location
2. Run the executable with administrator rights to register the shell extension
3. The context menu option will appear immediately without restart
4. To uninstall, run the executable again with uninstall parameters

Attribute Changer vs Alternatives

vs Advanced Renamer: Advanced Renamer is the most popular free alternative, specializing in batch file renaming with powerful pattern matching and transformation rules. While Advanced Renamer excels at complex renaming operations, Attribute Changer provides superior timestamp modification, attribute control, and EXIF editing. Users needing primarily renaming capabilities might prefer Advanced Renamer, while those requiring comprehensive metadata management benefit more from Attribute Changer.

vs BulkFileChanger: BulkFileChanger by NirSoft offers similar attribute and timestamp modification capabilities in a standalone application format rather than context menu integration. BulkFileChanger provides a traditional file list interface which some users find more intuitive for reviewing large file sets. However, Attribute Changer’s Explorer integration offers superior convenience for quick modifications of selected files.

vs PropertiesPlus: PropertiesPlus focuses specifically on viewing and modifying file and folder timestamps through an enhanced properties dialog. It’s simpler and more focused than Attribute Changer, making it easier for basic timestamp adjustments but lacking the comprehensive attribute modification, EXIF editing, and automation features that Attribute Changer provides.

vs Attribute Magic: Attribute Magic is a commercial alternative offering similar functionality with some additional enterprise features like command-line automation and network file management. While Attribute Magic provides professional support and guaranteed updates, Attribute Changer’s free licensing and active development make it more attractive for most users, with comparable features and reliability.

vs FileAttributeManager: FileAttributeManager provides a simpler, more streamlined interface for basic attribute changes but lacks the advanced features like EXIF editing, scripting, and comprehensive timestamp control. It’s suitable for users needing occasional attribute modifications but insufficient for professional or power user requirements.

vs Timestamp Clamper: Timestamp Clamper specializes exclusively in timestamp modifications with a focus on simplicity and speed. It handles timestamp adjustments efficiently but completely lacks the attribute modification, case conversion, EXIF editing, and other features that make Attribute Changer a comprehensive file management solution.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Completely free for personal and commercial use with no adware or nagware
• Seamless Windows Explorer integration via context menu
• Comprehensive file and folder attribute modification capabilities
• Precise control over all three timestamp types (Created, Modified, Accessed)
• Extensive EXIF photo metadata editing features
• Powerful batch processing for thousands of files simultaneously
• Preview and simulation mode prevents accidental changes
• Advanced filtering system for surgical file selection
• XML-based scripting for automation of repetitive tasks
• Template system saves common operations for quick recall
• Portable version available for USB drive usage
• Active development with regular updates
• Supports all modern Windows versions including Windows 11 ARM
• Comprehensive logging for auditing and troubleshooting
• Case conversion tools for filename standardization
• No installation required for portable version
• Lightweight resource usage
• Professional-grade features with user-friendly interface

Cons:

• Windows-only; no support for macOS or Linux
• Requires .NET Framework installation on older systems
• Learning curve for advanced features like scripting and complex filters
• Context menu can become cluttered with many extensions installed
• EXIF editing not as comprehensive as dedicated photo management software
• Some users might prefer standalone application interface over context menu integration
• No built-in undo function for applied changes (requires manual reversal or log consultation)
• Limited documentation for advanced scripting features
• Potential for data loss if used incorrectly on critical files without preview
• No cloud integration or synchronization features
• Community support primarily through website forum rather than dedicated support channels

Who Should Use Attribute Changer?

Photographers and Digital Asset Managers: Professional and amateur photographers managing large photo collections will find Attribute Changer invaluable for batch EXIF editing, timestamp corrections, and organizing images by metadata. The ability to synchronize file timestamps with EXIF capture dates ensures consistency across entire photo libraries.

IT Professionals and System Administrators: IT staff responsible for maintaining file servers, managing user directories, or migrating data between systems benefit from Attribute Changer’s powerful batch operations and scripting capabilities. The portable version enables technicians to carry a consistent tool across multiple systems.

Content Creators and Digital Archivists: Users managing extensive digital archives, document collections, or media libraries can use Attribute Changer to organize and standardize file properties, ensuring consistent metadata across entire collections for improved searchability and organization.

Developers and Testers: Software developers and QA professionals can use the randomization features to create realistic test file sets with varied timestamps and attributes, supporting thorough testing of file-handling applications.

Power Users and File Organization Enthusiasts: Anyone who values precise control over their file system and wants to maintain meticulously organized directories will appreciate Attribute Changer’s comprehensive modification capabilities and automation features.

Legal and Compliance Professionals: Users needing to document file modification histories or maintain audit trails can leverage the logging capabilities to track all property changes made to files under their management.

Not Recommended For: Casual users who only occasionally need to modify basic file properties might find the extensive feature set overwhelming. Additionally, users on macOS or Linux systems cannot use this Windows-exclusive tool and should seek platform-appropriate alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Attribute Changer safe to use on important files?
A: Yes, when used properly with the preview/simulation mode enabled. Always preview changes before applying them to critical data, and consider backing up important files before making extensive modifications.

Q: Can Attribute Changer recover original timestamps if I make a mistake?
A: The software doesn’t have a built-in undo function, but the logging feature records changes. To safeguard against errors, use preview mode before applying changes, or manually note original timestamps before modifications.

Q: Will modifying file attributes affect file content or integrity?
A: No, Attribute Changer only modifies file system metadata and properties. The actual file content remains completely unchanged. However, changing timestamps might affect backup systems or file synchronization tools that rely on modification dates.

Q: Can I use Attribute Changer on network drives or cloud storage?
A: Yes, Attribute Changer works with network drives accessible through Windows Explorer. For cloud storage, it works on locally synced folders but changes might not synchronize properly with cloud versions depending on the service’s metadata handling.

Q: How many files can Attribute Changer process at once?
A: There’s no hard limit, but performance depends on system resources. The tool has been successfully used to modify hundreds of thousands of files in a single operation, though extremely large operations may take considerable time.

Q: Does Attribute Changer work with encrypted or compressed files?
A: Yes, it can modify properties of encrypted and compressed files, though you need appropriate permissions. For compressed archives (ZIP, RAR, etc.), it modifies the archive file properties, not the files contained within.

Q: Is there a command-line version for automation?
A: While Attribute Changer primarily uses XML scripting for automation rather than traditional command-line parameters, the scripting system can be integrated into batch files and automated workflows for enterprise use.

Q: Can I uninstall Attribute Changer without affecting my modified files?
A: Yes, uninstalling Attribute Changer only removes the software; all file property modifications made while it was installed remain permanent. Your files retain whatever attributes and timestamps you set.

Q: Does Attribute Changer support UNC paths and very long filenames?
A: Yes, it supports UNC network paths and handles long filenames beyond Windows’ traditional 260-character limit when using appropriate Windows versions and configurations.

Final Verdict

Attribute Changer stands as one of the most comprehensive and useful file management utilities available for Windows. Its seamless integration into Windows Explorer’s context menu represents elegant software design – powerful functionality available exactly when and where you need it, without cluttering your interface when you don’t. The combination of attribute modification, timestamp control, EXIF editing, and case conversion creates a Swiss Army knife of file management that addresses needs most users don’t even know they have until they discover this tool.

What makes Attribute Changer exceptional is not just its feature set, but its thoughtful implementation. The preview mode prevents catastrophic mistakes, the filtering system enables surgical precision, the template and scripting systems support automation, and the logging provides accountability. These aren’t just features – they’re evidence of software designed by someone who understands real-world file management challenges and has crafted solutions that actually work.

The free licensing model, absence of adware, and active development further distinguish Attribute Changer from alternatives. In an era where even simple utilities often come with strings attached, Attribute Changer delivers professional-grade functionality without cost or compromise. The developer’s commitment to maintaining compatibility with the latest Windows versions, including ARM architecture, demonstrates ongoing dedication to user needs.

For photographers managing thousands of images with incorrect capture dates, IT professionals migrating file systems between servers, archivists organizing historical document collections, or power users who simply want complete control over their file systems, Attribute Changer delivers capabilities that would cost hundreds of dollars if licensed commercially. The learning curve for advanced features is worthwhile given the time savings and precision the tool provides.

Minor limitations – platform exclusivity, lack of dedicated undo functionality, and the learning curve for advanced features – are far outweighed by benefits. The tool doesn’t try to do everything; instead, it excels at what it does: providing complete, precise control over file and folder properties through an interface that’s both powerful and accessible.

Whether you need it daily or occasionally, Attribute Changer deserves a place in every Windows user’s toolkit. Its combination of power, accessibility, reliability, and zero-cost licensing makes it one of those rare utilities that becomes indispensable once discovered. For anyone who works with files – and that’s essentially everyone using a computer – Attribute Changer transforms frustrating file management tasks into simple, controllable operations. Highly recommended.