Take Control: How to Change Default Programs on Windows and macOS (Detailed Guide)

Have you ever clicked on a file, only to have it open in an application you didn’t intend? It’s a common frustration. This happens because your operating system has default programs set for different file types. These default programs determine which application will launch when you double-click a document, an image, a video, or any other file. While the pre-selected defaults are often useful, they may not always align with your preferences or workflow. Luckily, changing these defaults is a straightforward process. This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to change default programs on both Windows and macOS, ensuring you have the control you need over your digital environment.

Understanding Default Programs

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s briefly discuss why default programs exist. Default programs streamline your experience by automatically associating specific file types with relevant applications. For instance, when you click a .docx file, your computer automatically knows to open it with Microsoft Word (or another compatible word processor). This automation removes the need to manually select an application every single time. However, when you prefer a different application, these defaults can be a nuisance. That’s why learning to customize them is crucial for a personalized and efficient computing experience.

Changing Default Programs on Windows

Windows offers several methods for modifying default applications, catering to different user preferences and needs. Here, we’ll cover the most effective methods:

Method 1: Using the Settings App

This is the most common and generally the easiest way to change default programs in Windows. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Settings App: Click the Start button (Windows logo) and select the gear icon (Settings) or simply search for “Settings” and launch it.
2. Navigate to Apps: In the Settings window, click on “Apps”.
3. Select Default Apps: In the left-hand menu, click on “Default apps”.
4. Choose by File Type or Protocol: You have several options here:
   • Choose default apps by file type: This option lets you select the default program for a specific file extension (e.g., .txt, .jpg, .pdf). Click on “Choose default apps by file type” and scroll through the list of file extensions. Once you find the extension you want to change, click on the currently selected program next to it. A list of available apps will appear. Select the program you wish to set as default.
   • Choose default apps by link type: Similar to file types, you can set default apps for specific link types, such as email links (mailto:) or web links (http:, https:). Click on “Choose default apps by link type” and select your preferred program.
   • Set defaults by app: This option allows you to manage all defaults for a particular application. Click on “Set defaults by app”. Choose an application from the list. Click “Manage”. From this screen you can change all the file type and protocol associations for this single app.
5. Alternative: Choose a Default by Application: On the main “Default apps” page, scroll down and find “Set defaults by app”, this allows you to assign a single app to multiple file types in one step. Choose the application from the displayed list then click “Manage” this opens the app management page.
6. Confirm your changes: Your changes will automatically save as you select your preferred app.

Method 2: Using the “Open With” Menu

This method is a quick and easy way to change the default program for a specific file and works directly from the file explorer.

1. Locate the File: In File Explorer, find the file type you want to change the default for.
2. Right-Click: Right-click the file.
3. Select “Open With”: In the context menu, hover over the “Open with” option.
4. Choose Another App: A sub-menu will display showing suggested apps. If your app is not displayed, click on “Choose another app”.
5. Select Your Preferred App: In the window that appears, choose your preferred program.
6. Set as Default (important step!): Check the box next to “Always use this app to open [file extension] files” before clicking “OK”. This ensures the selected program will become the default for all files of this type.
7. Confirm: Click “OK”. Your change is now saved.

Method 3: Using the Legacy Control Panel

While largely superseded by the Settings app, the legacy Control Panel still offers an alternative method. This method is more similar to Windows versions pre-dating windows 10.

1. Open Control Panel: Search for “Control Panel” in the Start menu and open it.
2. Navigate to Default Programs: In Control Panel, set the view to “Large icons” or “Small icons” in the “View by:” dropdown in the top-right corner of the window. Then, click on “Default Programs”.
3. Set Your Defaults: Click “Set your default programs”.
4. Select an App: On the left, you’ll see a list of programs installed on your computer. Select the program you wish to modify, and then click “Choose defaults for this program”.
5. Select File Extensions: Check the boxes for the file extensions you want to associate with this selected app. Click “Save”
6. Set as Default: (If the program does not appear in the list) Click “Associate a file type or protocol with a specific program” then select a file extension and click “Change program”. The next window is similar to the previous “Choose another app” window. Select the preferred program and click ok.

Changing Default Programs on macOS

macOS provides a straightforward interface for managing default applications. The process is slightly different from Windows, but equally intuitive.

Method 1: Using the “Get Info” Window

This is the most common method for changing default programs on macOS. It’s a per-file-type-change, but makes it apply to all similarly-named files.

1. Locate the File: In Finder, find a file of the type you want to change the default program for.
2. Right-Click (or Control-Click): Right-click (or Control-click) the file.
3. Select “Get Info”: In the context menu, click on “Get Info”.
4. Expand the “Open with” Section: In the Get Info window, look for the “Open with:” section. If it’s collapsed, click the small arrow to expand it.
5. Choose Your Preferred App: Click on the dropdown menu to the right of the current application and select your preferred program from the list.
6. Apply to All Files of this type: If you want to make this program the default for all files of this type, click the “Change All…” button underneath the list of apps. A prompt will appear confirming you would like to make the change to all similar files, click continue.
7. Close the Get Info Window: The change should be applied immediately. Close the Get Info window.

Method 2: Using System Preferences

macOS also provides another method of changing default apps from the system preferences settings. This method is useful for managing link types and some other advanced features.

1. Open System Preferences: Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner of your screen, and select “System Preferences”.
2. Select “Desktop & Dock” (or “Desktop & Screen Saver” in older macOS versions): Choose “Desktop and Dock” in the preference pane.
3. Find Default Web Browser/Email Reader: Scroll down the “Desktop and Dock” preference pane, and you will see a “Default web browser” and “Default Email Reader” drop down menus.
4. Set Defaults: Click on the menu and select your preferred option. Changes will be saved automatically.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, changing default programs doesn’t go as smoothly as planned. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

• Changes Not Taking Effect: If your changes are not being applied, try restarting your computer. This can sometimes resolve conflicts in the operating system.
• Missing Apps from the List: If the application you want to use isn’t showing up on the list, ensure the application is installed and properly registered with the operating system. Some applications might require a re-install if they are not appearing correctly.
• Multiple Program Options: For a particular file type, you may have several options to choose from when you select “Open With” but still you can not get them to appear as default. This can often happen with browser files (.html for example), make sure your desired browser is properly configured to take over as a default by looking in the individual browser settings.
• Conflicts with Third-Party Tools: Certain third-party applications may interfere with default program settings. Check the settings of any such tools or try disabling them temporarily to see if that resolves the issue.
• Windows App Store Apps: Some apps installed via the windows store might not show as selectable apps for default programs unless they are properly registered. Ensure your windows installation is up to date, and that the app is also updated to the latest version.

Tips for Managing Default Programs

Here are some tips to help you effectively manage your default programs:

• Regularly Review Your Defaults: Periodically review your default program settings to ensure they still align with your needs. As you install new software, or change your workflow, your defaults may need adjustments.
• Experiment with Different Apps: Don’t be afraid to try out different applications. Sometimes, exploring alternatives can improve your efficiency.
• Keep Your Software Up to Date: Updated software often contains bug fixes and feature enhancements that can improve your experience.
• Consider Using File Management Tools: There are dedicated file management applications that can further streamline how you organize and manage your data and default programs.

Conclusion

Taking control of your default programs is an essential step in customizing your digital workspace and improving your workflow. Whether you’re using Windows or macOS, the process is straightforward and empowers you to choose the applications that best suit your needs. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your files and links open with your preferred programs, enhancing your overall computing experience. Don’t be afraid to explore the different applications available, and set defaults to get the most out of your digital life.