How to Set Which Program Opens a File

When dealing with files on your computer, it's essential to understand how to set which program opens a specific file type. This process varies depending on your operating system, whether you're using Windows, macOS, or Linux. Setting default programs ensures that your files are opened in the right application every time, improving your workflow efficiency and user experience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the steps for configuring default applications across different platforms, including tips and tricks for optimizing your settings.

Windows Operating System

1. Using File Explorer

Step 1: Open File Explorer by pressing Win + E or clicking on the File Explorer icon in your taskbar.

Step 2: Navigate to the file you want to change the default program for. Right-click on the file.

Step 3: From the context menu, select Open with, then click on Choose another app.

Step 4: In the pop-up window, select the program you wish to use from the list. If the program is not listed, click on More apps, and scroll to find it. You can also click Look for another app on this PC to locate it manually.

Step 5: Check the box labeled Always use this app to open .[file type] files to make this the default program for this file type.

Step 6: Click OK to apply the changes.

2. Using Settings

Step 1: Open the Settings app by pressing Win + I.

Step 2: Go to Apps and then click on Default apps.

Step 3: Scroll down and select Choose default apps by file type.

Step 4: Find the file extension in the list and click on the current default app next to it.

Step 5: Choose the new application from the list or browse for another app if needed.

Step 6: The new application will now be set as the default for that file type.

macOS Operating System

1. Using Finder

Step 1: Open Finder and locate the file you want to change the default program for.

Step 2: Right-click (or Control-click) on the file and select Get Info.

Step 3: In the Info window, look for the section labeled Open with.

Step 4: Click on the dropdown menu and choose the application you wish to set as the default.

Step 5: Click Change All to apply this change to all files of this type.

Step 6: Confirm your choice when prompted.

2. Using System Preferences

Step 1: Open System Preferences from the Apple menu.

Step 2: Go to General, then select Default web browser or Default email reader depending on the file type you are dealing with.

Step 3: Choose the application you want to set as default from the list.

Linux Operating System

1. Using File Manager

Step 1: Open your file manager (such as Nautilus, Dolphin, or Thunar).

Step 2: Locate the file you want to change the default program for.

Step 3: Right-click on the file and select Properties.

Step 4: Go to the Open With tab.

Step 5: Choose the application you wish to set as default from the list.

Step 6: Click Set as default or similar option depending on your file manager.

2. Using Terminal (Advanced)

Step 1: Open a terminal window.

Step 2: Use the xdg-mime command to change the default application. For example:

go
xdg-mime default application.desktop mime/type

Replace application.desktop with the .desktop file of the application and mime/type with the MIME type of the file.

Step 3: Verify the change by checking the default application for the file type.

Additional Tips

• File Extensions and MIME Types: Understanding file extensions and MIME types can help you better manage your default programs. For example, .txt files are typically associated with text editors, while .jpg files are associated with image viewers.

• Application Updates: Sometimes, applications may update and no longer be available in the list of default apps. Ensure your applications are up-to-date to avoid such issues.

• Customizing File Associations: On some platforms, you can create custom file associations if the built-in options are insufficient. This often involves editing configuration files or using specialized tools.

• Troubleshooting: If you encounter issues with file associations, consider resetting your default programs to their original settings and reconfiguring them as needed.

Summary

Setting the default program for a file type is a straightforward process but varies by operating system. By following the steps outlined for Windows, macOS, and Linux, you can ensure that your files always open with the application you prefer. This not only improves your efficiency but also enhances your overall computing experience.