Every file in your Windows operating system has an extension in its filename, for example. .txt, .doc, etc. These extensions are used to identify the program with which Windows can open this file. You can set or change these file associations in your Windows 11 or Windows 10 operating system.
Change file associations in Windows 11/10
1]Using Parameters
In later versions of Windows 10you will need to do the following to change file associations and extensions:
- Open Windows 10 Settings
- Select apps
- Click Default apps
- Scroll down and click blue Choose default apps by file type lien.
- Make your changes here.
You can even choose default apps by file type or protocol and set defaults by app.
To choose default applications by file type in Windows 11proceed as follows:
- Presse Win + I to open Windows Settings.
- Go to Apps > Default apps.
- Click it Choose defaults by file type option.
- Select a file type or extension.
- Choose an app that you want to set as default.
POINTE: This message will help you if you cannot associate a file type with a program.
2]Using file properties
You can also right-click the file whose association you want to change > Properties > General tab > File type > Edit > Choose a program from the list or recommended programs or others or click Browse to select some a.
3]Via File Explorer
Select the file in explorer, right click on it, select Open withand choose the program or select Choose another app as requested.
4]Using the Control Panel
To set file associations in Windows 10/8/7 using Control Panel:
- Open Control Panel
- Click Control Panel Home
- Select default programs
- Click Set Associations
- Select a file type from the list and click Change Program.
A list of programs will appear with a description and the current default. You can click the Change program to set or change the current default programs.
5]Using kinds of free software
If you want, you can also set, reset, change file associations and extensions easily with this freeware.
Types is a free, lightweight configuration utility for Windows that lets you change program associations, icons, context menus, and other properties of various file types displayed in Windows Explorer.
It’s a nice replacement for the built-in Windows file type utility.
Lis: How to Remove File Type Associations Using Registry Editor
Windows File Association Fix
If you want to easily fix file associations, you can check out our freeware File Association Fixer. Go here if you are unable to change the default program extension. This article will help you repair broken EXE file associations.
You can also configure, export, import application file associations in Windows using Settings and DISM tool. This article will show you how to reset all default file associations in Windows.
