Set Default Apps in Windows 10

Configuring Default Applications in Windows 10

While the functionality to set default apps isn't entirely novel to Windows 10, significant improvements have been implemented. Microsoft has substantially redesigned the previous system, aiming for a more efficient and user-friendly experience.

Understanding the Changes

The traditional Control Panel options for managing default applications have been largely superseded. A more modern and intuitive interface is now available, offering greater control over file associations and program linkages.

This overhaul focuses on streamlining the process of determining which programs handle specific file types, web links, and communication protocols.

How to Configure Default Programs

The following steps detail how to customize which applications are launched when you open various files, links, and protocols within the Windows 10 operating system.

Navigate to the Settings app.
Select "Apps".
Choose "Default apps" from the left-hand menu.

Within the "Default apps" section, you'll find several options for customization.

You can set defaults by file type, by protocol, or by app. This allows for granular control over your system's behavior.

Selecting "Choose default apps by file type" presents a comprehensive list of file extensions. You can then assign a preferred application to each extension.

Similarly, "Choose default apps by protocol" allows you to specify which application handles specific protocols like HTTP, HTTPS, or MAILTO.

Finally, selecting an app directly allows you to manage the file types and protocols that it is associated with.

These changes represent a significant step towards a more manageable and customizable Windows 10 experience.

Configuring Default Applications

Proper configuration of your preferred applications begins with accessing the Settings application via the updated Start Menu.

This is the initial step in ensuring your system utilizes the programs you intend for specific tasks.

Within Settings, select the "System" icon. Subsequently, navigate to "Default Apps" located in the menu on the left side of the window.

Customizing Default Application Settings

Upon accessing the Default Apps settings, a series of pre-configured applications are displayed. These are automatically set to handle common tasks within the Windows operating system.

Initially, Windows designates specific apps for seven primary functions. For instance, clicking email links, whether online or offline, will initiate the Windows Mail application.

Initial Default App Configurations

Web links are configured to open using Microsoft Edge, the system's default web browser. Image files will be displayed through the built-in Photo Viewer.

Furthermore, video and movie files are set to launch with the Video Player app. Requests for map directions are automatically directed to Bing Maps, opening within a new tab in Edge.

The handling of calendar links remains user-defined by default. This allows integration with an email provider or a separately installed scheduling application.

Further Customization Options

While these represent the initial settings on a new Windows installation, users retain the ability to modify these preferences. This customization extends to how Windows 10 manages various requests.

Adjustments can be made based on file type, the specific program, or the underlying protocol used to launch the application.

Assigning Default Applications Based on File Type

The method you employ to organize application associations is largely a matter of individual preference. However, the "Choose Default Apps by File Type" feature often proves more manageable for typical computer users.

To designate specific applications for opening particular file types or links, select the "Choose Default Apps by File Type" setting. This will present you with a dual-pane interface.

Understanding the Interface

The left pane displays a comprehensive list of all file types supported by Windows 10. The right pane showcases the applications currently installed on your system.

For instance, if you wish to open .mkv files with Windows Media Player instead of the built-in Movies app, locate ".mkv" in the left column. Then, select your preferred application – Windows Media Player – from the corresponding list on the right to establish it as the default.

Related: How to Choose Your Default Applications on an iPhone or iPad

This completes the process! While you could theoretically configure all application associations through this section, Microsoft provides alternative methods for managing default launch instructions.

Controlling Launch Behaviors by Protocol

Within the Default Apps area, a further section is located immediately below the initial settings. This section is designated as "Choose default apps by protocol".

This area provides more granular control over how your system responds to specific requests originating from applications and networked devices. These can include devices such as Xbox consoles, remote desktop connections, and external email programs.

Typically, the options presented here relate to commands best handled by native Windows applications. However, you can customize these settings if you require URLs to open in alternative programs.

Examples of Protocol Settings

Protocol configurations encompass actions like initiating Windows Search with a keyboard shortcut. They also include directing links containing MSN content to Windows applications. Furthermore, they govern how archive files, such as .zip files, are handled – whether by the built-in archive reader or third-party tools like WinRAR or 7Zip.

A Familiar Approach

For users who find the newer app settings in Windows 10 somewhat disruptive, Microsoft has thoughtfully retained the traditional configuration interface from Windows 7 and 8. This allows for default app management in a manner many are already accustomed to.

The "Set defaults by app" feature represents a comprehensive method for controlling file handling by installed applications. A list of programs is conveniently displayed on the left side. Individual commands that launch these programs are accessible by clicking the "Choose defaults for this program" button.

A streamlined approach involves selecting "Set this program as default." This action instructs Windows to automatically designate the chosen program as the primary handler for all compatible protocols, links, and files. For instance, Microsoft Edge will then automatically open HTTP links, FTP commands, and PDF attachments.

For more granular control, clicking "Choose defaults for this program" will present the following interface:

This screen displays a complete list of protocols and file extensions that the application is capable of recognizing. As an illustration, the Edge browser is pre-configured to handle links utilizing the HTTP or HTTPS protocols, as well as files with the .htm or .html extensions.

Users have the flexibility to customize these associations as desired. This is particularly useful when multiple web applications are installed and a distribution of responsibilities is preferred, based on individual needs or workflow requirements.

Resetting to Default Applications

Should your settings become overly complex or you desire a return to the original configuration, reverting any modifications is a straightforward process.

This allows you to quickly restore your system to its initial state after startup.