How to Change App Execution Aliases in Windows 11
You change app execution aliases in Windows 11 to control which application launches when you type a specific shortcut command.
Execution aliases are short, convenient names that let you run programs from the Command Prompt or the Run dialog box without typing their full executable path. For instance, typing `notepad` usually opens Notepad, but if another program registered itself as `notepad`, you might want to ensure the correct one launches.
Windows 11 allows you to manage these aliases, giving you the power to disable conflicting ones or prioritize specific applications. This ensures that when you use a command like `curl` or `python`, the version you intend to use is the one that executes.
Manage app execution aliases in Windows 11 by navigating to Settings > Apps > Advanced app settings > App execution aliases. Use the toggle switches to turn aliases on or off, controlling which app launches for a given command. This is useful when multiple apps use the same shortcut.
What Are App Execution Aliases?
Think of an execution alias as a nickname for an app. Instead of typing a long command to open an app, you can just type its alias.
For example, if an app has the alias testapp, typing testapp in Command Prompt will open it.
Why do this? It saves time. You don’t have to remember long app names or file paths.
What happens when done? You can quickly launch apps from the command line using short, easy-to-remember names.
How to Turn App Execution Aliases On or Off
Follow these easy steps to manage app execution aliases:
- Open Windows Settings: Click the Start button and then select Settings, or press
Windows key + Ion your keyboard. Learn more about Windows Settings - Go to Apps: In the Settings window, click Apps on the left side menu.
windows 11 settings apps on menu - Open Advanced App Settings: On the right side, find and click on Advanced app settings.
Windows 11 Advanced App Settings - Manage App Execution Aliases: Click on App execution aliases to see the list of apps and their aliases.
Windows 11 App Execution Aliases - Turn Aliases On or Off: Find the app alias you want to change. Use the toggle switch to turn it Off or On.
Toggle App Execution Aliases
That’s it! Now you’ve chosen which app will open when you type the alias.
Summary
- App execution aliases are shortcuts that open apps from Command Prompt or Run.
- You can turn these shortcuts on or off in the Windows Settings app.
- This helps if two apps use the same shortcut; you decide which one works.
- Just open Settings > Apps > Advanced app settings > App execution aliases and toggle switches.
- If you want to learn more about Windows 11 features, visit Microsoft’s Windows 11 support page.
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Richard
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Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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