Some users have complained lately with how Windows 8 handles some file types. For example, users at my company who are running Windows 8 may find opening jpeg and png attachments with Photo apps annoying. When you try to open images attached to emails using Windows 8, by default it automatically select Photos app which opens in preview mode.
In preview mode, users find it difficult editing or saving the attachments. This may also happen with other file types. The easy solution to this is to set default programs for each file type, and this brief tutorial is going to show you how to do it.
Setting a default program for a particular file type is telling Windows to always use the defined program to open these file types. File types are identified with their extensions. You can set default program for file with extensions such as .jpg, jpeg, .png and others.
Now, to get started with setting default programs in Windows 8, press the Windows Key + X keys on your keyboard. The Windows Key is the key with Windows logo to the left of the spacebar.
When Windows 8 Tools Menu opens, select Control Panel
When Control Panel opens, select Programs –> Default Programs. There select ‘Make a file type always open in a specific program’
Finally, go through the list and change the program you want open specific files by select the file extension and clicking ‘Change program..’
That’s it!
Most images end with .png, .jpg extensions. If you want Microsoft Paint to open files ending with .jpg, .png, then select the extension from the list and when prompted, choose Paint. Do the same with other extension types.
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to set default programs for file types in Windows 8?
To set default programs for file types in Windows 8, press the Windows Key + X keys, then select Control Panel > Programs > Default Programs. From there, choose 'Make a file type always open in a specific program' and select the file extension you want to change.
What is the key combination to access default programs settings in Windows 8?
To access default programs settings in Windows 8, press the Windows Key + X keys on your keyboard.
How can I change the default program for opening jpeg and png files in Windows 8?
To change the default program for opening jpeg and png files in Windows 8, go to Control Panel > Programs > Default Programs, then select the file extension (.jpg, .jpeg, .png) and click 'Change program.'
Why does Windows 8 automatically select Photos app to open image attachments in preview mode?
Windows 8 automatically selects Photos app to open image attachments in preview mode to provide a quick preview of the image without needing to open a separate program. However, this can be changed by setting a different default program.
Can I use Microsoft Paint to open files with .jpg and .png extensions in Windows 8?
Yes, you can use Microsoft Paint to open files with .jpg and .png extensions in Windows 8. Simply select the file extension from the list in Default Programs settings and choose Paint as the default program.
What is the purpose of setting default programs for file types in Windows 8?
Setting default programs for file types in Windows 8 ensures that specific file types always open with the desired program, providing a more efficient and customized user experience.
How do I make a specific program always open certain file types in Windows 8?
To make a specific program always open certain file types in Windows 8, navigate to Control Panel > Programs > Default Programs, then choose 'Make a file type always open in a specific program' and select the desired file extension.
Is it possible to change default programs for other file types besides images in Windows 8?
Yes, it is possible to change default programs for various file types besides images in Windows 8. You can select different programs to open specific file extensions based on your preferences.