How to Set Windows Picture & Fax Viewer As the Default Program

Windows Picture and Fax Viewer is typically set as the default viewing software for images on Windows XP. However, if you install third-party image viewing software, if will often change itself to the default software for viewing images. You can change the default viewing program back to Windows Picture and Fax Viewer, and you won't have to remove the third-party software, as both programs can coexist on your system.

Instructions

1. Locate an image type, such as .jpg, .png or .gif. Note that you will need to repeat this process for each file type you wish to have associated with Windows Picture and Fax Viewer.

2. Right-click on the image file and select "Open With."

3. Select "Choose Program," then select "Windows Picture and Fax Viewer."

4. Put a check in the box next to "Always use the selected program to open this kind of file" and click "OK."

Tips & Warnings

• If the above does not work, you may need to reinject Windows Picture and Fax Viewer into Windows XP. On your keyboard, press the "Windows" and "R" buttons at the same time. Type "regsvr32 shimgvw.dll" (without quotes) and click "OK." Restart your computer, and Windows Picture and Fax Viewer should be reintegrated into Windows XP.

References

• Microsoft: Windows Picture and Fax Viewer Overview
• Microsoft Support: You Cannot View Pictures by Using Windows Picture and Fax Viewer in Windows XP