Below is a list of common file types you will encounter with BitTorrent, and how to handle them. Please be aware that the best way to identify file types is by their extension. For example, a file named ReallyCoolStuff.zip ends in .zip which is a clue that you should open the program in WinZip, or something equivalent.

Please be aware that the default setting in Windows is to hide file extensions. This results in many headaches from new users who have no idea how to open a certain file. Instead of displaying an extension, Windows expects you to identify files based upon the File Type column in the Detail View mode of Explorer. This can be cumbersome, and often the text shown is wrong or doesn't correspond to the file's actual type.

For these reasons, I urge you to go into Folder Options and disable the ridiculous Hide file extensions of known file types option.