Choosing Default Application Based On File Extension

This article will give the steps on how to set default applications for opening a specific file type.

Computer Settings MacOS and Windows

Windows:

Method 1:

1. Right-click a file of the file type for which the default application is to be changed (e.g. *.pdf or *.doc) and choose Open with/Choose another app
2. The current default app for this file type is at the top of the list.  Another app can be selected and the box can be checked to make this the new default app

Method 2:

1. Click All Settings in Action Center
2. Select Default apps and then Choose default apps by file type
3. Choose desired file type in left column and then choose desired default app after clicking on current default app

MacOS:

1. Open Finder, and locate a file you want to open with a different application
2. Select the file, click File in the top bar, and click Get Info
3. Locate the Open With section, and select the program you would like to use from the dropdown menu
4. Click Change All..., and then select Continue from the pop-up menu to confirm using the selected application for all files with that file type

For additional questions you can contact the JMU IT Help Desk at helpdesk@jmu.edu or 540-568-3555.