Are you tired of opening files with the wrong program? Do you find it frustrating when your files automatically open in a program that you didn’t choose? Well, worry no more! In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of changing file associations back to unknown app on your device.
Often, when you open a file, it automatically opens in the program that is associated with that file type. But what if you want to change it? What if you want to remove the recommended program and have the file open as an unknown app? We’ve got you covered.
Whether you want to get rid of the “always open with this program” option, change the default program for opening PDF files, or even reset all your file associations, we’ll show you how to do it all. So grab your device and let’s dive into the world of file associations in this simple and easy-to-follow guide.
How to Bring a Lost File Association Back from the Dead
The Frustration of File Association Woes
You’re happily clicking away on your computer, opening files left and right, when suddenly, disaster strikes! You double-click on a file, and instead of opening in the trusty app you’re accustomed to, it launches in some mysterious, unknown abyss. Panic sets in—did your file association just vanish into thin air? Fear not, dear reader, for I am here to guide you on this perilous journey of bringing your file association back from the dead.
Unmasking the Unknown App
So, you find yourself staring at a file that has lost all connection to its once-familiar app. It’s like a blind date gone wrong—the app’s name is a complete mystery, and you’re left wondering how to restore order to this chaos. Fear not, for unraveling this mystery is easier than deciphering hieroglyphs (well, maybe not that easy, but close enough).
Method #1: Right-Clicking to the Rescue
The first method, my brave troubleshooter, is as simple as a flick of the wrist. Find the file that has lost its association, right-click on it, and select “Open With.” Now, you may think, “But wait, I don’t know which app to choose!” Fear not, for within this menu lies an option that could potentially breathe life back into your file association—the mysterious and enigmatic “Choose another app.” Click on it, and let the magic unfold.
Method #2: Diving into the Depths of Settings
If the previous method didn’t quite solve the puzzle, fear not, for we have another trick up our sleeves. Prepare to dive deep into the murky depths of your computer’s settings, where file associations hide like mischievous goblins. Here’s how you can summon them back:
- Navigate to the Settings menu, which can usually be found by clicking on the cogwheel icon or typing “Settings” in the search bar.
- Within the vast halls of settings, locate the “Apps” or “Apps & Features” section. It’s like searching for buried treasure—don’t give up!
- Once you’ve found your way to the Apps section, click on “Default Apps” to reveal the secret vault of app associations.
- Ahoy! You’ve uncovered the realm of file associations. Scroll down until you spot the “Choose default apps by file type” option.
- Brace yourself, adventurer, for this is where the magic truly happens. Find the file type with the lost association and click on the app listed next to it. A list of potential suitors—ahem, apps—will appear for your choosing.
Method #3: Command Line Wizardry
Now, my intrepid reader, if you find yourself yearning for a more adventurous path, fear not. We shall unlock the mysterious powers of the command line to reclaim what was lost. Only the brave shall tread here—fair warning!
- Invoke the almighty power of Command Prompt by pressing the Windows key + R, typing in “cmd,” and hitting Enter. Prepare to enter a world of text-based magic.
- Once the gates of Command Prompt have swung wide, type in the following command and press Enter:
assoc .extension=Unknown. Replace “.extension” with the file extension lost in the abyss of unknown apps. It’s like casting a spell to reclaim what was lost! - Behold! If all goes well, the lost file association will now be brought back to life, shining its glorious light upon your computer once again.
Celebrate the Revival of File Associations
With these powerful methods at your disposal, you can confidently restore lost file associations like a digital wizard. So, the next time you encounter a lost file association, fear not and remember the wisdom you’ve gained here today. You are now equipped to conquer the unknown and bring your file associations back from the dead!
FAQ: How do I change file association back to unknown app?
Hey there, tech-savvy reader! We know you’ve been scratching your head, trying to figure out how to wrestle control back from those pesky file associations. Well, worry no more! In this FAQ-style subsection, we’ll answer all your burning questions and show you how to change file associations back to unknown app with ease. So grab your favorite beverage and let’s dive in!
How do I get rid of “always open with this program”
You know that frustration when you accidentally click “always open with this program” and now your files keep stubbornly opening in the wrong app? Fear not, my friend! We have the solution. Start by finding the file type that’s causing you grief (let’s say it’s a .txt file). Right-click on the file, select “Open with”, and then choose “Choose another app”. From the list that pops up, select your desired app and make sure to uncheck the box that says “Always use this app to open .txt files”. Phew! You’re back in control!
How do I change what opens a file
Ah, the eternal struggle of wanting a different app to handle your beloved files. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! Begin by locating the file you want to open with a different app (let’s pick a .pdf file). Right-click on it, select “Open with”, and then click on “Choose another app”. Voila! A shiny new window will appear, giving you a delightful array of app options to choose from. Pick the app that your heart desires, and you’re all set!
How do I remove the recommended program to open a file
Sometimes, Windows just can’t seem to take a hint and keeps recommending an app to open your files. Let’s show it who’s boss, shall we? Start by right-clicking on the file you want to reclaim (let’s say it’s an .mp3 file this time). From the context menu that appears, select “Properties”. In the properties window, look for the “Opens with” section and click on “Change”. Now, you can break free from the chains of recommended programs and choose the app that truly speaks to your musical soul. Huzzah!
How do I change file association back to unknown app
Ah, the million-dollar question! If you’re longing for the good old days when your files were unidentified superheroes, we’re here to make it happen. Ready? Here’s the secret sauce: right-click on the file and select “Open with”, then click on “Choose another app”. Look for the option that says “More apps” (it’s like finding a hidden treasure, we know) and click on it. Finally, at the bottom of the list, choose “Look for another app on this PC”. Marvelous! Now you can navigate to the folder where the unknown app resides and select it. Your files are back to being the mysterious enigmas of the digital realm!
How do I change the default program for opening PDF files
Oh, the power of PDF files! If you’re yearning for a different default PDF program, we’ll make it happen. First, locate any PDF file (maybe that e-book you’ve been meaning to read). Right-click on it, select “Open with”, and then choose “Choose another app”. A list of delightful options will appear, but don’t stop there! Scroll down and click on “More apps”, and then check the box that says “Always use this app to open .pdf files” beside your preferred app. Now sit back, relax, and let the PDFs open in the app of your dreams. You’re the captain of the PDF ship!
How do I change the default app in Chrome
Chrome, the trusty browser that never leaves your virtual side. Let’s set a new default app just for you! Start by opening Chrome and clicking on the three little dots in the top-right corner. From the menu that pops up, select “Settings”. Now, scroll down and click on “Advanced”, followed by “Privacy and security”. Look for the section that says “Site settings” and click on “Additional content settings”. Finally, find “Handlers” and click on “Default”. Here you can add or remove handlers for various file types. Keep fighting the good fight, Chrome conqueror!
How do I change what application opens a file
Time to play the app-switching game! First, find the file you want to open with a different app (let’s go with a thrilling .xlsx file). Right-click on it, select “Open with”, and then click on “Choose another app”. Now, here comes the fun part! You can either pick an app from the list or click on “More apps” for additional options. Isn’t it fabulous when life hands you choices? Once you’ve found your perfect app match, click on it and watch the magic unfold. Cheers to newfound file-opening happiness!
How do I reset file associations
Sometimes, it feels like your file associations need a good old-fashioned reset. Here’s how you can give them a fresh start. Begin by opening the “Settings” app. From there, click on “Apps”, followed by “Default apps”. Look for the option that says “Reset” and click on it. Take a deep breath and confirm your decision. Your file associations will be reset to their default settings, saving you from any more tangled web of mixed-up apps. Your files will thank you!
And there you have it, folks! We hope this comprehensive FAQ-style subsection has answered all your burning questions about changing file associations back to unknown app. Remember, technology may throw us curveballs, but we’ll always be here to help you navigate the digital labyrinth with a smile. Happy file association adventures in the year 2023 and beyond!
