How To: Change Which App Opens a File

Want a different app to open a certain kind of file, like PDFs in Adobe Acrobat instead of your browser? Here's how to change it on Windows 11 or a Mac.

In this article

Windows 11

1

Open Default apps

Go to Settings > Apps > Default apps.
2

Choose by file type

Under Set a default for a file type or link type, type the file extension, like .pdf.
3

Pick the app

Select the current app and choose the one you want.

Quicker way: right-click a file, select Open with > Choose another app, pick the app, and select Always.

Mac

Control-click a file, select Get Info, choose the app under Open with, then select Change All.

Chrome is NCU's default browser. It's the one we expect you to use and the one IT troubleshoots, so keep it as your default. See How To: Move Your Bookmarks to Chrome.

Get help

Still need help? Contact the IT Service Desk:

  • Call: 612.343.4170
  • Visit: Miller Hall 226
  • Hours: Monday–Thursday, 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. CT
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