Set Default Apps

Overview: 

Setting default programs in Windows helps you control which applications open specific file types, such as photos, PDFs, or web links. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to set default programs for common file types and discusses a workaround for opening PDFs if you don't have Adobe Reader installed.

Instructions: 

Setting Default Programs

To set default programs in Windows, follow these steps:

  1. Open Default Apps Settings

    • Type "default apps" in the search window (located in the bottom-left corner of your screen on the taskbar) and select "Default Apps."

  2. Choose an Application Type

    • Find the application type you want to set as default. For example:
      • For a photo viewer, look for "Photo Viewer."
      • For a web browser, find "Web Browser."
    • Click on the icon for the desired application type and select from the list of programs available.

  3. Set Default Program by File Type

    • If you want to set default apps for specific file types, click "Choose default apps by file type."
    • Browse through the list of file types to find the one you need (e.g., .pdf for PDFs).
    • Click on the current default program (like Microsoft Edge) to choose a new default, such as Adobe Reader or Acrobat.

"Open With" for Specific Files

If you don't find the behavior you're looking for or need a quick change, you can use the "Open with" option:

  1. Right-Click on the File

    • Find the file you want to open, then right-click on it.

  2. Choose "Open With"

    • From the context menu, select "Open with" and choose "Choose another app."

  3. Select a Program

    • Select the program you'd like to use from the list.
    • To make this program the default for this file type, check the box labeled "Always use this app to open [file type]."

Workaround for Opening PDFs Without Adobe Reader

If you don't have Adobe Reader installed but need to open PDFs, you can use Google Chrome as a workaround:

  1. Open Google Chrome

    • If it's not your default browser, open it from your Start menu or taskbar.

  2. Open the PDF in Google Chrome

    • Drag the PDF file into the Chrome window, or use Chrome's "Open File" option to locate and open the PDF.
    • Chrome will display the PDF, allowing you to view or print it.

These instructions should help you set default programs, open specific files with the desired applications, and find a workaround for opening PDFs without Adobe Reader. If you need further assistance, contact your IT support team.

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