Change default apps in Windows (2024)

Customizing default programs and app associations in Windows is a straightforward process that can enhance your computing experience. For instance, if you’re a developer who prefers a specific text editor for coding, changing the default application for .txt files can save you time and streamline your workflow. Similarly, changing your default browser to the one you use most can speed up your Internet tasks.

This article describes the steps to change default programs and app associations in Windows, enhancing your efficiency.

How to change the default apps

1. In the Settings app on your Windows device, select Apps> Default Apps, or use the following shortcut:

   Default Apps

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2. To change a default app, you can do either of the following:

   1. Set a default for a file type or link type
      In the search bar, type the file extension or protocol you wish to change, such as.txt. Select the corresponding result from the list that appears. Then, choose an app from the options provided to open files of that type

   2. Set defaults for applications
      Select an app to see what file types or link types it can open. If you want to change something, select the file or link type, then choose your preferred app