Set Default Programs in Windows 7 & Vista - Beginner Geek

Managing File Associations in Windows 7 and Vista

Have you ever experienced the frustration of a file opening with an unexpected application after installing new software? This can be a disruptive experience, altering your preferred program settings. This article details how to regain control over which applications handle specific file types on your computer.

The Common Scenario

Imagine you’re enjoying your music collection using Windows Media Player on Windows 7. Everything functions as expected. Then, upon installing iTunes alongside your new iPod, you discover that your music folder icons have changed. Now, these files default to opening with iTunes instead of WMP. This often occurs during software installations where programs attempt to establish themselves as the default handler for associated file types, unless explicitly prevented.

This situation isn’t isolated to iTunes; it can happen with various programs and file formats. Fortunately, Windows 7 and Vista provide a dedicated feature – Set Default Programs – to manage these associations effectively.

Accessing the Set Default Programs Feature

To begin, click the Start button and then select “Default Programs” from the menu. This will open the settings panel where you can configure your application preferences.

Next, click on the option labeled “Set your default programs.”

Configuring Default Applications

You’ll now see a list of installed programs. Review each program individually and determine whether you want it to be the default application for all file types it supports.

Alternatively, you can selectively choose which file types each program will handle. For instance, you might designate Foobar2000 for specific audio file types while allowing VLC and Windows Media Player to manage others.

Changing Associations for Specific File Types

You can also directly modify the program associated with a particular file type. For example, if VLC is currently opening WMV files and you prefer Windows Media Player, highlight the WMV file type and click the “Change program” button, or simply double-click the entry.

A list of recommended and other programs will appear. Select your desired application. Note that the “Always use the selected program to open this kind of file” checkbox may be grayed out when accessed through the Set Default Programs interface. This is because Windows assumes a permanent change due to the navigation path taken.

Using the "Open With" Context Menu

If you right-click on a file and select “Open with” from the context menu, the “Always use the selected program to open this kind of file” checkbox will be available. This allows you to make a one-time decision about whether to permanently associate the file type with the chosen application.

Managing AutoPlay Settings

Within the Set Default Programs settings, you can also configure AutoPlay behavior for media and devices like flash drives. For example, you can set DVDs to always open in Media Player or configure music CDs to prompt you each time. You can disable AutoPlay entirely by unchecking “Use AutoPlay for all media and devices.”

If you choose to be prompted, AutoPlay will present you with options when a device is inserted. These settings are also accessible through the Control Panel by clicking “View more AutoPlay options.”

Alternative Tools

For more advanced control, consider using Default Programs Editor, a utility that provides a comprehensive interface for managing file associations. It offers all the options found in the built-in settings, along with additional features.

These methods will empower you to customize which programs handle different file types, ensuring a smoother and more personalized computing experience. This tutorial focused on music and movie files, but the principles apply equally to any file format.