How to Change the Default File Editor in Internet Explorer

Internet Explorer keeps a database of file types and the programs capable of opening and editing them. If you select to open a certain file type instead of downloading it, Internet Explorer uses its list to decide which program is used to open the file. Customizing this list lets you choose the programs you prefer to use for specific files. For example, you might decide to open Word documents with LibreOffice or OpenOffice instead of Microsoft Word.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Internet Explorer

1. Open Internet Explorer using the "Start" menu or by clicking on its shortcut. Click the "Tools" menu button.

2. Click the "Internet Options" item. Click the "Programs" tab at the top of the window.

3. Click the "HTML editor" drop-down menu to set your default HTML editing program. Note that Microsoft Word appears in this menu, however it is a very poor choice for HTML editing. A better choice would be NotePad or a dedicated HTML editing program.

4. Click the "Set programs" button to select other default programs. Change your settings as needed. Click "OK" twice to apply the changes.

References

• Microsoft: Change Internet Explorer Programs Settings