Over time, as users install a variety of applications on their Windows system, the default programs assigned to open particular file types may get shuffled around. This could lead to a scenario where a newly installed photo editor takes over the default opening rights for all your PNG images, instead of your favored, older program. While this automatic selection helps in streamlining user experience, it might not always align with user preferences. Thankfully, Windows 11 and 10 offer flexibility in adjusting which applications automatically manage specific file types. This ensures that your preferred programs get precedence, restoring your workflow to its optimal state. This article will guide you through the process of resetting and restoring default apps for file types, ensuring your files open with the apps you prefer. Dive in to understand how to tailor this aspect of your Windows experience.
How to Reset and Restore Default Apps for File Types on Windows 11?
To reset and restore default apps for file types in Windows 11, do the following:-
Step 1. Firstly, open the Settings app.
Step 2. Select the Apps category from the left sidebar in the Windows Settings.
Step 3. Then, click the Default apps tab in the right-side pane.
Step 4. Next, scroll down to the bottom and select the Reset button beside the “Reset all default apps” option under the “Related settings” section.
Step 5. After that, in the “All change you’ve made will be reset to Microsoft recommended app defaults” flyout, click the OK button.
Now, all the file types will be reset and restored to open with the default apps recommended by Microsoft.
That’s it.
How to Change and Reset Default Apps in Windows 10?
To change and reset default apps on Windows 10, perform the following steps:-
Step 1. Firstly, launch the Windows Settings using Windows + I hotkey.
Step 2. Now, click on Apps.
Step 3. Then, select Default apps in the left pane.
Step 4. Next, scroll down and click the Reset button under “Reset to the Microsoft recommended defaults.”
After that, all file types will reset to Microsoft’s recommended one. For example, the “Web browser” will be assigned to the “Microsoft Edge.” That means clicking on any URL will open by default with the Microsoft Edge browser. “Microsoft Edge.”
If you want to reset specific file types to default, click on that individual entry. For example, we want to reset Email to default. Then, click Email and select the entry that says “Recommended for Windows 10.”
The default type of apps you can change include:-
- Web browser
- Music player
- Video player
- Photo viewer
- Calendar
- Maps
If you want to set the default app for a single file type extension, click the “Choose default apps by file type” link.
Finally, you’ll find a two-tiered menu, the first containing every file type that Windows 10 is designed to handle and the second with the list of apps you currently have installed on the machine.
To reset the app to default, click the option with the link “Recommended for Windows 10.”
Conclusion
Customizing which apps open specific file types is a powerful feature in both Windows 11 and 10. Whether you wish to revert back to the default applications suggested by Microsoft or assign a new favorite, these systems allow for such preferences to be adjusted. Following the steps outlined in this guide will ensure your user experience remains aligned with your workflow preferences. Remember, technology is at its best when it molds to your individual needs.
