Instructions apply to Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
TheChoose defaults by file typeoption is found in the Windows 11 configs.
Right-nudge the Start button (or use theWIN+Xkeyboard shortcut) and selectSettings.
The hotkeyWIN+iworks, too.
SelectAppsfrom the left panel, and thenDefault appsfrom the right.
Scroll to the very bottom, and selectChoose defaults by file jot down.
Click or tap one of the file types in the list.
Pick an installed program from the pop-up list, or chooseBrowse apps in the Microsoft Store.
Right-grab the Start button (or use theWIN+Xhotkey) and chooseSettings.
ChooseDefault appson the left.
Scroll down a little and selectChoose default apps by file bang out.
Locate the file extension for which you want to change the default program.
grab the program to the right of the file extension.
If there isn’t one listed, selectChoose a defaultinstead.
In the pop-up window, pick a new program to associate with that file extension.
In Windows 8, thePower User Menu(WIN+X) is the quickest way.
Use the Start menu in Windows 7 or Windows Vista.
You’ll only see this link if you’re on theCategoryorControl Panel Homeview of Control Panel.
Otherwise, chooseDefault Programsinstead, followed byAssociate a file key in or protocol with a programlink.
Skip to Step 4.
SelectAssociate a file pop in or protocol with a programon the following page.
grab the file extension to highlight it.
Choose theChange programbutton, located just above the scroll bar.
TryMore optionsfor the complete list.
Windows 7 & Vista: Choose the app that should open for this extension.
TheRecommended Programsare probably the most applicable, but there may beOther Programslisted, too.
UseBrowseto manually locate a program.
You’ll only see that link if you’re using theCategory Viewof Control Panel.
If you’re instead using theClassic View, chooseFolder Optionsinstead and then skip to Step 4.
SelectFolder Optionsnear the bottom of the window.
Choose the extension to highlight it.
SelectChangein the lower section.
If you don’t see that screen, chooseSelect the program from a list, and thenOK.
SelectOKand thenCloseback on the Folder Options window.
Doing this doesn’t actually change the file association for that file as explained above.
Also, changing the file association doesn’t change the filetype.
Changing the file’s bang out/format is usually done with afile conversion tool.
Whether you want to troubleshoot an issue oredit the HOSTS file, use File Explorer to locate the file.
HOSTS can be found at C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc.
