Windows 10 is a versatile operating system that offers users a wide range of customization options. One such option is the ability to choose your default programs for opening different file types. While this can be convenient for some, it can also lead to frustration if you accidentally set a program as the default for a specific file type and want to revert it back to the original default. In this blog post, we will explore how to change the "Open with" settings back to default in Windows 10, providing you with multiple methods to choose from.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Change Open with Back to Default Windows 10
There are several reasons why you may need to change the "Open with" settings back to default in Windows 10. Here are a few:
1. Accidental Changes: It’s easy to accidentally set a program as the default for a specific file type by clicking the wrong option in the "Open with" menu. If you discover that you’ve made a mistake, you’ll want to revert the settings back to default.
2. Compatibility Issues: Some programs may not be compatible with certain file types, resulting in errors or unexpected behavior. Changing the "Open with" settings back to default can help ensure that files are opened with the correct program that is designed to handle them.
3. Workflow Efficiency: If you work with multiple programs that handle similar file types, it can be frustrating to have to manually choose the correct program each time you open a file. By setting the default programs back to their original settings, you can streamline your workflow and save time.
Now that we understand the importance of changing the "Open with" settings back to default in Windows 10, let’s dive into the different methods you can use to accomplish this.
Method 1: Changing the Default Program via File Properties
Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best one. To change the default program for a specific file type back to the original setting, you can follow these steps:
1. Right-click on the file that you want to change the default program for.
2. Select "Properties" from the context menu.
3. In the Properties window, click on the "General" tab.
4. Under the "Opens with" section, click on the "Change" button.
5. A new window will appear with a list of available programs. If the original default program is listed, select it and click "OK". If the program is not listed, you can click on the "More apps" option and choose the desired program from the extended list.
6. Once you’ve selected the program, click "OK" again to save the changes.
Pros:
1. Easy and straightforward method to change the default program via file properties.
2. Allows you to choose from a list of available programs.
3. Gives you the freedom to find and select the original default program.
Cons:
1. Requires manual selection and confirmation of the desired program.
2. May not work if the original default program is not listed in the "Open with" window.
Method 2: Using Control Panel to Change Default Programs
If the first method didn’t work or you prefer a more centralized approach, you can use the Control Panel to change the default programs for various file types. Here’s how:
1. Open the Control Panel by searching for it in the Windows Start menu.
2. In the Control Panel window, click on "Programs".
3. Then, click on "Default Programs".
4. Next, select "Set Default Programs".
5. A list of programs will appear on the left side of the window. Find the program that is currently set as the default for the file type you want to change, and click on it.
6. Now, click on the "Set this program as default" button to reset it as the default program.
Pros:
1. Allows for a centralized approach to changing default programs.
2. Provides a clear overview of all available programs and their default statuses.
3. Gives you the option to set the selected program as the default for multiple file types.
Cons:
1. Requires navigating through the Control Panel, which may not be as intuitive for some users.
2. May not show all programs that can handle the file type, depending on the program’s compatibility with the Control Panel settings.
Method 3: Via Settings to Change Default Apps
In addition to the Control Panel, Windows 10 also offers a dedicated Settings app that allows you to change default apps for different types of files. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Open the Settings app by clicking on the Start menu and selecting the gear icon.
2. In the Settings window, click on "Apps".
3. Then, click on "Default apps".
4. Scroll down and click on "Choose default apps by file type".
5. A list of file types will appear. Find the file type you want to change the default app for, and click on the default app currently associated with it.
6. A list of available apps will be displayed. Select the desired app to set it as the default for the file type.
Pros:
1. A modern and user-friendly interface for changing default apps.
2. Provides a comprehensive list of file types and their associated apps.
3. Allows you to easily change default apps for multiple file types.
Cons:
1. May not display all available apps for a specific file type.
2. Requires scrolling through a potentially long list of file types.
Method 4: Using Registry Editor to Change Default Programs
Sometimes, you may encounter a situation where the previous methods don’t work or aren’t available. In such cases, you can use the Windows Registry Editor to change the default programs for specific file types. However, it’s important to note that the Windows Registry is a sensitive area, and making incorrect changes can cause system issues. Proceed with caution and consider creating a backup of the registry before making any modifications. Here are the steps:
1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type "regedit" and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
3. In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following path:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FileExts
4. Expand the "FileExts" folder and find the file type you want to change the default program for.
5. Right-click on the file extension folder and select "Delete" to remove the association with the current default program.
6. Confirm the deletion and close the Registry Editor.
Pros:
1. Provides a workaround when other methods don’t work.
2. Gives you direct control over the Windows Registry settings.
3. Can be used to remove invalid or problematic file associations.
Cons:
1. Modifying the Windows Registry can be risky and may cause system instability if executed incorrectly.
2. Requires knowledge of the specific registry path and file extension.
What to Do If You Can’t Change Default Programs
If you’ve tried all the methods mentioned above and still can’t change the default programs successfully, here are a few additional fixes you can try:
1. Reset Windows 10 Default Apps: Open the Settings app, click on "Apps", then select "Default apps". Scroll down and click on "Reset" under the "Reset to the Microsoft recommended defaults" section.
2. Use a Third-Party Program: There are various third-party software available that can help you change default programs in Windows 10. Be cautious when downloading and installing such programs, and make sure to choose a reputable one.
3. Create a New User Account: In some cases, creating a new user account can resolve issues with changing default programs. To create a new user account, open the Settings app, click on "Accounts", then select "Family & other users". Click on "Add someone else to this PC" and follow the on-screen instructions to create a new account.
Bonus Tips
Here are three bonus tips for changing default programs in Windows 10:
1. Update Your Programs: Sometimes, compatibility issues can arise when using outdated versions of programs. Make sure to regularly update your programs to ensure they work smoothly and are recognized as default options by Windows 10.
2. Check File Associations: In addition to changing default programs, you can also check and manage file associations in Windows 10. Go to Settings > Apps > Default apps > Choose default apps by file type to see the full list of file types and their associated default apps.
3. Consider System Restore: If all else fails and you’ve made significant changes to your system or registry, you can consider using System Restore to revert your computer back to a previous state. This can help undo any unintended modifications and restore the default settings.
5 FAQs
Q1: Can I change the default program for multiple file types at once?
A: Yes, you can change the default program for multiple file types at once using the Control Panel or the Settings app. Simply select the file types you want to change and follow the steps provided in the respective method.
Q2: Why is the original default program not listed in the "Open with" options?
A: The original default program may not be listed if it was uninstalled or if it no longer supports the file type in question. In such cases, you can try reinstalling the program or using an alternative program that can handle the file type.
Q3: Can I change the default programs for built-in Windows apps?
A: No, you cannot change the default programs for built-in Windows apps. These apps are designed to handle specific file types and are set as default by default (pun intended).
Q4: Will changing default programs affect my existing files?
A: No, changing default programs will not affect your existing files. Your files will remain untouched, and the changes will only apply to future files that you open with the associated file types.
Q5: Is it safe to modify the Windows Registry to change default programs?
A: Modifying the Windows Registry carries some risk, as making incorrect changes can cause system instability. It is recommended to proceed with caution and create a backup of the registry before making any modifications. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with editing the registry, it is best to use one of the other methods mentioned earlier.
Final Thoughts
Changing default programs in Windows 10 is an essential skill for users who want control over which programs are used to open their files. Through this blog post, we explored multiple methods to change the "Open with" settings back to default, providing you with options based on your preferences and requirements. Whether you choose to use the file properties, Control Panel, Settings app, or the Windows Registry Editor, always remember to exercise caution and backup important data before making any changes. With the knowledge gained from this article, you can confidently navigate through the Windows 10 operating system and customize it to suit your needs.