How to change the default app for a file type in Windows

Have you ever noticed that Microsoft Windows™ automatically opens certain files in a specific program? That's because Windows maintains a list of file types and assigns a default app to use with them. The assigned app opens whenever you choose a file type associated with it. But if you want to automatically open a different program with a file type, you'll need to change the default app settings.

Asurion Experts provide tech support you can trust. Whether you need to fix common Windows issues or want advice on how to install Windows 11™, we've got you covered for all your tech care needs. Changing the default app for file types in Windows is quick and only takes a few steps.

Why change the default app for a file type

Learning how to change the default app in Windows can make using your computer much smoother. Instead of opening a program and searching through menus every time, you can assign a file type to automatically open with your preferred app. That way, whenever you click that file, Windows will launch the right program instantly.

If a file type isn’t assigned, it can lead to extra clicks, confusion, and wasted time. By adjusting your default apps in Windows, you can fix the issue quickly and keep your workflow simple and efficient.

Change the default app in Windows Settings

Windows gives you complete control of default apps for every file type option in the Settings menu. Use this option to fine-tune your computing experience and explore the full list of file type options.

1. Click Start > Settings > Apps.
2. Click Default Apps. Locate and click Choose defaults by file type.
3. Locate the file extension you want to adjust, such as .PDF or .JPG.
4. Click the name of the current app below the file type. If none is listed, click Choose a default.
5. Click the name of your preferred app from the list.
6. Click Set default to save your changes.

Change the default app using the "Open with" menu

Windows provides a simpler method for quick changes involving one file type. This method doesn't require a visit to the Settings menu.

1. Right-click the file you want to adjust.
2. Click Open with > Choose another app.
3. Click the name of your preferred app from the list.
4. Click Always to set it as the preferred app.

Troubleshooting if the default app keeps changing

If you updated your default file type preferences but the wrong app continues to open, try these fixes.

Verify the chosen app is updated and installed

1. Click Start > Settings > Apps.
2. Locate the app on the list. If it isn't there, you must install it before you can assign a default file type.

Check for Windows updates

Microsoft® releases regular patches to fix security issues and bugs. A missing update could cause software to behave unexpectedly.

1. Click Start > Settings > Windows Update.
2. Click Check for Windows updates.
3. Click Download & install if updates are available.

Disable third-party apps

Some apps can disrupt Windows operations and make it difficult to assign file types. Common culprits include third-party "file manager" and "clean-up" apps. Try uninstalling these types of apps to see if that resolves the issue. Be wary of installing unfamiliar apps, as programs may contain viruses or malware.

Reset all default apps to Microsoft's recommendations

You can always reset your default app to Microsoft recommendations. Doing so overwrites any new default app changes made.

1. Click Start > Settings.
2. Click Apps > Default apps.
3. Locate Reset all default apps. Click Reset.

FAQ

Will changing the default app affect existing files?

Adjusting the default app won't change any of the content in your saved existing files. It only changes the program used to view the file's content. For example, if you update the default app for PDF files from Acrobat® to Microsoft Word®, any file with the .PDF file extension will automatically open in Word.

Can I reset all default apps back to Microsoft's choices?

If you're unhappy with the manual modifications you've made to default apps, you can give yourself a fresh start. Open Settings and click Apps > Default apps. Locate the Reset all default apps heading and click Reset.

How do I change the default web browser for certain file types?

Open Settings > Apps > Default apps. Locate your preferred web browser and click its name. Review the list of default file types and click the one you want to adjust. When the pop-up window appears, choose your preferred app and click Set default.