How to Reset File Associations in Windows 11

This post shows students and new users steps to reset or restore file types or app associations when using Windows 11 to resolve issues where the wrong programs are associated with file types. By default, Windows 11 can only open programs per file type automatically.

If multiple photo programs are installed, only one will be assigned and used to open the PNG file type automatically.

PNG file type can be opened with other photo programs, but manually. If you want a specific program to open a specific file type, then changing the default file association for the specific file will be required.

Using app association for file extension is a per-user profile setting. One user’s default file association will not be the same for all other users on the system. Users must be signed into their accounts and set the default associations for file types. This is true for resetting or restoring Windows default file type associations.

File type associations aren’t new to Windows 11. Previous versions of Windows also allow app association per file type.

To get started with restoring file type association in Windows 11, follow the steps below:

How to reset file type associations in Windows 11

If you feel that the wrong apps are being opened for specific file types, you can reset the file type associations in Windows 11.

Windows 11 has a centralized location for the majority of its settings. Everything can be done, from system configurations to creating new users and updating Windows from its System Settings pane.

To get to System Settings, you can use the Windows key + I shortcut or click on Start ==> Settings, as shown in the image below:

Alternatively, you can use the search box on the taskbar and search for Settings. Then select to open it.

Windows Settings pane should look similar to the image below. In Windows Settings, click Apps, then select Defaults on the right pane of your screen shown in the image below.

On the Defaults settings pane, scroll down to the bottom of the screen and click on the Reset button as highlighted below:

On the pop-up windows, click OK to accept that “All changes you’ve made will be reset to Microsoft recommended app defaults.“

That should do it!

Conclusion:

• Resetting file type associations in Windows 11 can resolve issues with incorrect app openings for specific file types.
• Users can easily access the System Settings through keyboard shortcuts or the Start menu.
• The process involves navigating to the Apps section and utilizing the Reset button for default app settings.
• This action restores Microsoft recommended app defaults for all file types affected.
• Remember that file associations can be set individually for each user account on the system, ensuring personalized settings.