How to Choose Adobe Reader As a Default

Adobe Reader is a free software program that enables users to open PDF files that are saved on a computer or clicked on inside of a Web browser. Adobe does not automatically become the default program for such files after it is downloaded and installed onto your computer. The process for choosing Adobe Reader as the default for these files differs depending on the operating system you use. Regardless of the computer you own, completing the process once makes Adobe your default program.

Instructions

Windows

1. Click the Windows icon, called the "Start" button, in the taskbar.

2. Choose "Default Programs" on the right side of the menu.

3. Click the second option, "Associate a File Type," in the pop-up window.

4. Scroll down and click the PDF file type. Click the "Change Program" button at the top of the window.

5. Click the "Adobe Reader" icon under the "Recommended Programs" category. Click "OK." Adobe Reader is now the default program.

Mac

1. Hold down the "Control" key, and click once on a PDF file.

2. Select "Get Info" from the menu.

3. Click the "Open With" menu inside the window. A list of programs appears.

4. Select "Adobe Reader." Adobe Reader is now the default program.

References

• Microsoft: Change Which Programs Windows Uses By Default
• Indiana University Knowledge Base: In Mac OS X, How Do I Assign an Application to Open Certain File Types?