How to Change Default Apps in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing default apps in Windows 11 might sound like a small tweak, but it can completely transform how smoothly your computer works for you. Whether you prefer Chrome over Edge, VLC over Movies & TV, or Adobe Acrobat instead of Microsoft Edge for PDFs — customizing default apps ensures your favorite programs open automatically.

In this step-by-step guide on how to change default apps in Windows 11, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from the basics to advanced tweaks. By the end, you’ll be in full control of which apps handle your files and links.

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📝 Quick Summary (Key Takeaways)

• Default apps decide which program opens files, links, or media.

• You can change them through Settings → Apps → Default apps.

• Options include changing by app, file type, or link type.

• Advanced users can tweak defaults using Group Policy or Registry Editor.

• Customizing defaults improves workflow and avoids repetitive switching.

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Why Do You Need to Change Default Apps in Windows 11?

Have you ever clicked on a PDF and it opened in Microsoft Edge when you wanted Adobe Acrobat? Or tried opening a video only to see it launch in Movies & TV instead of VLC? That’s because Windows assigns default apps automatically.

By changing them:

• You save time.

• You improve productivity.

• You avoid the frustration of manually choosing apps every time.

Think of it like setting your favorite restaurant as your go-to spot on a food delivery app — you’ll always get what you want with just one click.

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How to Access Default App Settings in Windows 11

Before we dive into the methods, let’s locate the settings:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

2. Select Apps from the left-hand menu.

3. Click Default apps.

Here, you’ll see all available options to manage default apps by app, file type, or protocol.

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Method 1: Change Default Apps by Application

This is the most common and beginner-friendly way.

Steps:

1. Open Settings → Apps → Default apps.

2. Scroll down and select the app (e.g., Google Chrome).

3. You’ll see a list of file types and protocols it can open.

4. Click the file type (e.g., .html, .pdf).

5. Select the app you want from the pop-up list.

6. Confirm with OK.

✅ Example: Set Chrome as the default for .html, .htm, .pdf, and HTTP/HTTPS links.

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Method 2: Change Default Apps by File Type

Want all .jpg files to open in Photoshop instead of Photos? This method is perfect.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings → Apps → Default apps.

2. Scroll down and click Choose defaults by file type.

3. Locate the extension (e.g., .jpg, .docx, .mp4).

4. Click the current app icon beside it.

5. Pick your preferred app from the list.

✅ Example: Set .mp3 to always open in VLC Media Player.

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Method 3: Change Default Apps by Link Type (Protocol)

Link types control how apps handle web-based or system links.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings → Apps → Default apps.

2. Scroll down and click Choose defaults by link type.

3. Search for protocols like HTTP, HTTPS, or MAILTO.

4. Assign them to your preferred app.

✅ Example: Set MAILTO to Outlook instead of the Mail app.

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Method 4: Set Defaults for Specific File Types from File Explorer

Sometimes, you don’t want to open Settings. You can assign defaults directly.

Steps:

1. Right-click a file (e.g., document.pdf).

2. Select Open with → Choose another app.

3. Pick your preferred app.

4. Check Always use this app to open .pdf files.

5. Click OK.

✅ Example: Open .txt files in Notepad++ instead of Notepad.

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Method 5: Restore Default Apps in Windows 11

What if you mess things up or just want to start fresh?

Steps:

1. Go to Settings → Apps → Default apps.

2. Scroll down and click Reset all defaults.

3. Confirm your choice.

This will reset apps back to Microsoft’s defaults (Edge for browser, Photos for images, etc.).

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How to Change Default Browser in Windows 11

One of the most common changes users make is switching the default browser.

Steps:

1. Open Settings → Apps → Default apps.

2. Select your browser (e.g., Google Chrome or Firefox).

3. Assign it to all web-related file types:

   • .htm

   • .html

   • .shtml

   • .xht

   • .xhtml

   • HTTP, HTTPS protocols

4. Confirm changes.

✅ Example: Chrome now opens every web link instead of Edge.

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How to Change Default PDF Viewer in Windows 11

PDFs often open in Edge, but many prefer Adobe Acrobat or Foxit Reader.

Steps:

1. Open Settings → Apps → Default apps.

2. Search for .pdf.

3. Click the app currently set (likely Edge).

4. Choose Adobe Acrobat (or your preferred viewer).

5. Confirm.

✅ Now all PDFs open in Adobe Acrobat.

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How to Change Default Music Player in Windows 11

The built-in Groove Music/Media Player might not be your favorite.

Steps:

1. Open Settings → Apps → Default apps.

2. Search for .mp3 or .wav.

3. Click and set VLC Media Player, Spotify, or your choice.

✅ Example: Every song opens in Spotify instead of Groove.

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How to Change Default Video Player in Windows 11

Videos often open in Movies & TV, but VLC is more versatile.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings → Apps → Default apps.

2. Search for extensions like .mp4, .mkv, .avi.

3. Assign them to VLC Media Player.

✅ Example: All movies now launch in VLC.

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How to Change Default Email App in Windows 11

By default, Windows uses the built-in Mail app.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings → Apps → Default apps.

2. Search for MAILTO under protocols.

3. Select your app (e.g., Outlook, Thunderbird).

✅ Example: Clicking an email link opens Outlook.

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Advanced Method: Change Defaults Using Group Policy

If you’re managing multiple PCs (like in an office), use Group Policy.

1. Open Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc).

2. Navigate to Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → File Explorer.

3. Locate Set a default associations configuration file.

4. Import an XML file that defines your default apps.

This is mainly for IT admins.

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Advanced Method: Change Defaults Using Registry Editor

⚠️ Warning: Editing the registry can cause system issues. Only do this if you’re experienced.

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.

2. Navigate to:
   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FileExts

3. Find the extension (e.g., .pdf).

4. Edit the UserChoice key to assign your desired app.

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Troubleshooting: What If Default Apps Won’t Change?

Sometimes, Windows 11 doesn’t save your changes. Here’s how to fix it:

• Restart your PC after making changes.

• Check for updates: Settings → Windows Update.

• Reinstall the app you’re trying to set as default.

• Reset default apps and try again.

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Table: Common Default Apps in Windows 11 and Alternatives

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Conclusion

Changing default apps in Windows 11 gives you control over how your PC behaves. Whether it’s browsing, reading PDFs, watching videos, or listening to music, the process is simple once you know where to look.

By following the step-by-step methods above, you can set up your computer exactly the way you want — and save time every day. Remember, Windows is your tool, and customizing it helps you work smarter, not harder.

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FAQs About Changing Default Apps in Windows 11

1. Can I change all default apps at once in Windows 11?
No, you have to set them individually. However, you can reset all defaults to Microsoft’s apps in one click.

2. Why do my default app settings keep resetting?
This usually happens after a Windows update. Try reapplying your changes or updating your third-party apps.

3. Can I use portable apps as default in Windows 11?
Yes, but they must be properly installed or registered. Some portable apps may not show up in the default app list.

4. Is there a shortcut to change default apps quickly?
Yes — right-click a file, select Open with → Choose another app, and check Always use this app.

5. Do default apps sync across devices with my Microsoft account?
No, default app settings are local to each device. You’ll need to customize them separately.