Disable 'Use the Web service to find the correct program' Dialog
Bypassing the "Use a Web Service" Dialog in Windows
Many Windows users have encountered a frustrating situation when attempting to open a file with an unrecognized extension. Instead of being presented with a list of installed applications capable of handling the file, a dialog box appears, prompting the use of a web service to locate a suitable program.
Fortunately, this behavior can be altered. A modification to the Windows Registry allows users to bypass this initial dialog and directly access the familiar "Open With" window, displaying a list of installed programs.
Understanding the Issue
When a file with an unknown extension is double-clicked, Windows typically presents a dialog suggesting the use of a web service to identify an appropriate application. This can be inconvenient for users who prefer to choose from their already installed software.
The desired outcome is to see the standard "Open With" dialog, which provides a list of installed programs, similar to selecting the second option in the initial prompt.
Implementing the registry adjustment will display the more useful second dialog, eliminating the initial, less desirable one.
Manual Registry Modification
To implement this change manually, access the Registry Editor (regedit.exe) via the Start Menu search or the Run dialog box. Navigate to the following key; create it if it doesn't already exist:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Within this key, create a new 32-bit DWORD value with the following settings:
- Name: NoInternetOpenWith
- Value: 1
The change takes effect immediately; a system restart is not required. To revert to the default behavior, either set the value to 0 or delete the newly created key.
Downloadable Registry Hack
For users of Windows Vista or XP, a pre-configured registry file is available for simplified application. Simply double-click the DisableInternetOpenWith.reg file and confirm the information prompt to import the settings into the registry.
DownloadInternetOpenWith Registry hack for Windows XP / Vista