How To Change a Default File Extension

The way many operating systems open files depends on the type of extension associated with the file. Although this may be convenient when you are using software, there are times when you want to use other software to open files. To do this on a regular basis, you will need to change the default extensions on those files. This will allow you to double click on the file and it will open in the desired software. To change your default file extensions, the process takes about five minutes to complete.

Instructions

1. Go to the "Tools" menu on "My Computer" to view your file extensions. Click on the "Folder Options." Click the "View" tab and, in the "Advance settings" box, remove the check mark next to "Hide extensions for known file types." Click "OK."

2. Close all applications and click the "Start" button at the bottom left of your desktop. Go up to "Explore" and click.

3. Click and highlight a folder that contains files with the file extension that you want to change. Right-click on that folder and, depending on your operating system, either hit "Open With" and choose the program associated with the desired file extension or put your cursor on "Open With" and click "Choose Program" to pick the program associated with the desired file extension.

4. Hit the program of the desired file extension in the "Programs" list that appears. You can also opt to browse and locate the appropriate program. The function also lets you "look for the appropriate program on the Web."

5. Put a check mark next to the "Always use the selected program to open this kind of file" field. This will change the default file extension of this type of file. Click "OK." From now on, your operating system will associate this type of file with your desired program and file extension.

Tips & Warnings

• To see file extensions, go to your "Tools" menu and click on the "Folder Options." Click the "View" tab and in the "Advance settings" box, remove the check mark next to "Hide extensions for known file types." Click OK."

• You cannot change the file extensions on .exe, .com or .bat files.

References

• Microsoft.com: How to change or select which program starts when you double-click a file