Introduction

Let’s say you want all .mp3 files to be played using a media player you purchased or downloaded instead of Windows Media Player (the default). This guide shows you how to associate certain file types (.mp3 or .jpg for example) and protocols with a certain program.

Associate a File Type or Protocol with a Program

In this example I’m going to associate all .png files with Internet Explorer instead of Windows Photo Gallery.

If you don’t know a file’s extension (.png) check out my guide on how to show file extensions ^[1].

1. Open the Control panel.
2. Double-click Default Programs.
3. Click Associate a file type of protocol with a specific program.
4. Find the type of file (a .png file in this example) or protocol in the list.

   ^[2]

   Hint: To quickly find a file type or protocol click anywhere on the list and type the file type or protocol (.png in this example).

5. Double-click the file type or protocol and an Open with window will appear.

   ^[3]

6. Windows Vista suggests what programs you can use to open the file or protocol with under Recommended Programs. If the program you want to use is not listed, click the down arrow to the right of Other Programs. If you can’t find the program there, click the Browse button and browse to the program manually.
7. Click OK once you’ve made your selection on which programs to use.