How To Fix Broken File Type Associations in Windows 10
Restoring file associations for shortcuts, folders and user files, setting up default apps and resetting associations. File associations suggest comparing the file type to the program which will execute this file. Due to failures or Windows errors, such associations may be disrupted.
To Recover File Associations in Windows 10
File Associations For Ordinary Files
-
Use the menu item «Open with». Right-click on the file, the association for which needs to be changed. From the list of suggested programs, select the application that suits your needs or look for another one.
-
Launch Control Panel / Default programs / Set associations. To see which program opens this file type by default, click on the corresponding file extension. To change the default program, click on «Change program».
-
Launch Settings / System / Default applications. At the bottom of the window that opens, select Choose default apps by file type.
Associations of Shortcuts, Folders and Executable Files
The methods described above are good when you deal with ordinary files (pictures, documents, audio files or videos etc). If folder, shortcut or exe.file associations are disrupted in Windows 10, you can correct such errors with the help of Registry Editor.
Advanced users can do it manually. However, to save you the trouble of entering manually the corresponding values into the registry, you can also use ready-made .reg files which are meant to enter data into Windows registry.
- To correct the EXE file associations;
- To correct the LNK file associations;
Download such files and run them, or right-click on the required file and choose “Merge”.
Agree to the security warning by clicking “Run”.
Confirm making changes to the registry by clicking on “Yes” in the next window.
After that close the registry editor and restart the computer. As a result, associations for .exe and .lnk files should start working just as they did before.
If you have activated automatic creation of system restore points before, then you could correct the error of file associations much quicker by using these restore points.
Have you managed to recover your files associations? Leave your feedback and ask questions in your comments.
Is it possible to customize file associations in Windows 10 beyond the default options provided by the operating system?
Yes, it is possible to customize file associations in Windows 10 beyond the default options provided by the operating system. You can do this by using a third-party application, such as FileTypesMan, or by manually editing the registry.
How can a user remove unwanted or incorrect file associations in Windows 10?
What is the "Open With" dialog box in Windows 10?
The “Open With” dialog box in Windows 10 is a feature that allows you to choose which program or application you want to open a specific file with. When you right-click on a file, you can select the “Open With” option to bring up the dialog box. This allows you to choose from a list of programs or applications that are installed on your computer and can be used to open the file.
How does Windows 10 allow users to manually change file associations?
Users can manually change file associations in Windows 10 by right-clicking a file, selecting “Open with” and then selecting “Choose another app”. From there, the user can select the program they would like to use to open the file. The user can also select “Always use this app to open [file type] files” to set the default program for that file type.
Can third-party software cause changes to file associations in Windows 10?
Yes, third-party software can cause changes to file associations in Windows 10. For example, when you install a program, it may set itself as the default program for certain file types. Additionally, some programs may change the default program associated with a file type without your knowledge or permission.
Read how to fix broken file type associations in Windows 10 and recommend it to friends. If you do have any questions, don't hesitate to contact our technical support service - we will be happy to help you.