Post Windows 10 installation, the system defaults to basic settings, leaving many features without a default app for opening, like choosing an app every time you play a song or video right after installing Windows 10. It's crucial to set up default apps in Windows 10 for seamless application launching without prompts.
Here's a quick guide on setting default apps in Windows 10:
Configuring default applications in Windows 10
Step 1: Press the Start button > Settings, or open Settings with the Windows + I keyboard shortcut. For more ways to access Settings in Windows 10, see our guide.
Step 2: Select the System category > Default Apps.
Click System to access system settings customization in Windows 10.
Select Default apps to configure default applications in Windows 10.
Step 3: Here, you'll find a variety of Windows features awaiting your default application choice, including Email, Maps, Music Player, Photo Viewer, Video Player, and Web Browser.
To set a default app for each feature, simply click the “plus” icon labeled Choose a default under each feature. The system will display all supporting apps for that feature on your computer, although Microsoft limits the search for additional apps.
Step 4: Change any default app in Windows 10 by clicking on the icon of the currently set default app and selecting a different application.
Step 5: If you wish to remove all default apps in Windows 10 and reset them, simply click Reset under the Reset to the Microsoft recommended default section.
Additionally, Windows offers three other options for users to set default apps in Windows 10, including Choose default apps by file type.
Choose default apps by protocol.
Set default by app.
This guide covers how to set up default applications in Windows 10. Keep in mind, this is just one way to manage default settings post Windows 10 installation. Users can also disable app notifications, turn off wallpaper sync, or block Windows 10 updates for a more personalized experience.
In earlier versions like Windows 7 and Windows 8, setting default applications was possible but not as intuitive or user-friendly as in Windows 10. Windows 10 offers a more personalized experience, allowing users to easily change the Start Menu color, significantly altering the look of Windows 10.