Setting Windows Media Player as the default media player in Windows 7 can be a convenient way to ensure that all media files open automatically in this program. Whether you prefer to use Windows Media Player for its simplicity, user-friendly interface, or extensive file format support, this blog post will guide you through the steps to make it your default media player.
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The Challenge of Setting Windows Media Player As Default Windows 7
One challenge that users often encounter when attempting to set Windows Media Player as the default media player in Windows 7 is navigating through the system settings to find the necessary options. The default settings in Windows 7 typically associate media files with other programs such as Windows Media Center or Windows Media Player Classic. However, with a few simple steps, you can easily configure Windows 7 to open all media files using Windows Media Player by default.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before proceeding with the methods outlined in this blog post, there are a few things you should prepare to ensure a smooth setup process.
1. Windows 7: Make sure you have a computer or laptop running Windows 7 as these instructions are specifically for that operating system.
2. Windows Media Player: Confirm that you have Windows Media Player installed on your Windows 7 device. If you don’t have it installed, you can download it from the official Microsoft website.
3. Media Files: Gather a few media files that you can use to test whether Windows Media Player is set as the default player successfully. This can include audio files (MP3, WAV) and video files (MP4, AVI).
With these preparations done, you’re ready to proceed with the methods below.
Method 1: Using Control Panel
To set Windows Media Player as the default media player in Windows 7, follow these steps:
1. Click on the "Start" button located at the bottom left corner of your screen.
2. Open the Control Panel by clicking on the "Control Panel" option.
3. In the Control Panel window, navigate to the "Programs" category and click on the "Default Programs" option.
4. In the Default Programs window, click on the "Set your default programs" link.
5. A list of programs installed on your computer will appear. Scroll through the list until you find "Windows Media Player."
6. Select "Windows Media Player" and click on the "Set this program as default" button.
7. Windows will display a confirmation message indicating that Windows Media Player is now the default program for all supported file types.
Pros:
1. Simple and straightforward method.
2. Does not require any additional software installations.
3. Works well for most users’ needs.
Cons:
1. Requires navigating through multiple system settings.
2. Limited customization options for file associations.
Method 2: Via Windows Media Player Options
Alternatively, you can also set Windows Media Player as the default media player within the program itself. Follow these steps:
1. Launch Windows Media Player from the "Start" menu or desktop shortcut.
2. Click on the "Organize" drop-down menu in the top-left corner of the program window.
3. Select "Options" from the drop-down menu.
4. In the Options window, click on the "File Types" tab.
5. A list of file types will be displayed. Check the box next to each file type you want to associate with Windows Media Player.
6. Click on the "Apply" button, then click "OK" to save the changes.
7. Windows Media Player will now be set as the default program for the selected file types.
Pros:
1. Convenient method within the Windows Media Player program.
2. Allows for more specific customization of file associations.
3. Provides a comprehensive list of file types for selection.
Cons:
1. Requires launching Windows Media Player to access the settings.
2. May not be suitable for users who prefer system-wide settings updates.
Method 3: Using Default Programs in Windows Explorer
Another option to set Windows Media Player as the default media player is through the Default Programs settings within Windows Explorer. Follow these steps:
1. Open Windows Explorer by clicking on the "Start" menu and selecting "Computer."
2. Click on the "Organize" drop-down menu located in the top-left corner of the Windows Explorer window.
3. Select "Folder and search options" from the drop-down menu.
4. In the Folder Options window, click on the "File Types" tab.
5. A list of file types will be displayed. Scroll through the list until you find the media file types you want to associate with Windows Media Player.
6. Select each file type individually and click on the "Change program" button.
7. In the Open With window, select "Windows Media Player" from the list of programs and click "OK."
8. Repeat the above steps for each media file type you want to associate with Windows Media Player.
9. Close the Folder Options window.
Pros:
1. Provides an alternative method for setting file associations.
2. Allows for more precise control over individual file types.
Cons:
1. Requires accessing Windows Explorer settings.
2. Can be time-consuming if multiple file types need to be updated.
Method 4: Using Default Programs in Windows Settings
If you prefer to use the Windows Settings app, you can also set Windows Media Player as the default media player. Follow these steps:
1. Click on the "Start" button and select the gear icon to open the Windows Settings app.
2. In the Windows Settings window, click on the "Apps" category.
3. Select the "Default apps" option from the left-hand menu.
4. Scroll down to the "Choose default apps by file type" section and click on the "Choose default apps by file type" link.
5. A list of file types will be displayed. Scroll through the list until you find the media file types you want to associate with Windows Media Player.
6. Click on the "Choose a default" option next to each file type.
7. In the Choose an app window, select "Windows Media Player" from the list of programs.
8. Repeat the above steps for each media file type you want to associate with Windows Media Player.
Pros:
1. Setting file associations through the modern Windows Settings app.
2. Easy accessibility and user-friendly interface.
3. Works well for users who prefer centralized app settings.
Cons:
1. Limited customization options compared to other methods.
2. Requires navigating through different settings categories.
Why Can’t I Set Windows Media Player as Default Windows 7?
Some users may encounter issues when attempting to set Windows Media Player as the default media player in Windows 7. Here are a few common reasons and their respective fixes:
1. System Restrictions: If you are using a computer on a network or managed by an administrator, certain settings may be restricted. In such cases, contact your network administrator for assistance in changing the default media player.
2. Missing Windows Media Player: If Windows Media Player is not installed on your Windows 7 device, you will not be able to set it as the default media player. Download and install Windows Media Player from the official Microsoft website.
3. File Associations Conflict: If your media files are associated with another program, you may need to disassociate them before setting Windows Media Player as the default. To do this, right-click on a media file, select "Open with," and choose a different program. Then repeat the steps in the methods above.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to enhance your experience when setting Windows Media Player as the default media player in Windows 7:
1. Keep Windows Media Player updated: Regularly check for updates to ensure you have the latest features and security patches.
2. Customize file associations: Take advantage of the customization options to associate specific file types with Windows Media Player, depending on your media preferences.
3. Review default settings periodically: It’s a good idea to revisit your default program settings from time to time to check if any changes have been made inadvertently.
5 FAQs about Setting Windows Media Player as Default Windows 7
Q1: Can I set Windows Media Player as the default media player for all file types?
A: Yes, you can set Windows Media Player as the default media player for all supported file types by following the methods outlined in this blog post.
Q2: Can I undo the changes and restore the previous default media player?
A: Yes, you can revert the changes and restore the previous default media player by following the same steps in the methods but selecting a different program instead of Windows Media Player.
Q3: Are there any drawbacks to setting Windows Media Player as the default media player?
A: There are no significant drawbacks to setting Windows Media Player as the default media player. However, if you have specific preferences for other media players or need certain advanced features, you may consider using an alternative program.
Q4: Can I use these methods on other versions of Windows?
A: These methods are specifically designed for setting Windows Media Player as the default media player in Windows 7. While similar steps may apply to other versions of Windows, there might be slight variations in the interface.
Q5: Are there any alternatives to Windows Media Player for playing media files?
A: Yes, there are several alternative media players available for Windows, such as VLC Media Player, iTunes, and Winamp. Each has its own features and advantages, so you may explore these options if Windows Media Player does not meet your requirements.
In Conclusion
Setting Windows Media Player as the default media player in Windows 7 can be easily accomplished through various methods. Whether you choose to use the Control Panel, Windows Media Player options, Windows Explorer settings, or the Windows Settings app, the steps outlined in this blog post will help you configure Windows 7 to open all media files using Windows Media Player by default. Enjoy seamless media playback and an enhanced media experience with the simplicity and user-friendly interface of Windows Media Player.