Setting a Default Program

A quick guide on how to set a default program for a specific type of file in Windows 10.

1. To select a default program in Windows 10 for a specific file type, such as .pdf , or a specific application, type in "Default Program" in the search and select Default Programs.
   
   
    
2. When you open it, you should see a screen with "Choose default apps" at the top. Please check to see if the default you are looking to set is on this main page, such as your web browser. If it is not listed here then scroll down to the bottom until you see "Choose default apps by file type".
   
   
    
3. From that screen, there is a long list of file types on the left side. Scroll down until you find the one you want to change.  Click on the icon to the immediate right of the file type to get a drop-down menu with a choice of programs as seen below.
   
   
    
4. Select the program from the list and that will be the new default program for opening files with that specific file type.

Need help?

If you have questions, please contact the ITS Help Desk at 608.342.1400 or helpdesk@uwplatt.edu.  You may also visit the Help Desk on the first floor of the Karrmann Library.