How to Remove File Association in Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Remove File Association in Windows 10

Removing file associations in Windows 10 can be a bit tricky but it’s totally doable. Essentially, you’ll be changing which program opens specific file types. We’ll walk you through the process step by step, from accessing the right settings to making the changes you need. By the end of this guide, you’ll have full control over your file associations.

How to Remove File Association in Windows 10

In this section, we’re going to dive deep into the steps you need to take to remove or change file associations in Windows 10. Follow these easy steps to switch default programs.

Step 1: Open Settings

First, you need to access the Settings menu.

Click on the Start button and then click on the gear icon to open the Settings menu.

Step 2: Go to Apps

Navigate to the ‘Apps’ section.

In Settings, click on ‘Apps’. This section allows you to manage all your installed applications and their settings.

Step 3: Open Default Apps

Find and click on ‘Default apps’.

Within the Apps menu, you’ll see ‘Default apps’ listed on the left-hand side. Click on it to proceed.

Step 4: Choose Default by File Type

Scroll down and click on ‘Choose default apps by file type’.

This will bring up a long list of file extensions and their associated default programs.

Step 5: Change or Remove an Association

Find the file type you want to change and click on the current default program.

A menu will appear, allowing you to pick a different application or set it to ‘None’.

Once you complete these steps, the file association will be removed or changed accordingly. Files of that type will open with a different program, or none at all, depending on your settings.

Tips for Removing File Association in Windows 10

• Back up your settings: Before making changes, it’s a good idea to create a system restore point.
• Know your default programs: Make sure you know which program you want to set as the new default before starting.
• Check file types: Be aware that some file extensions may be used by multiple programs.
• Revert changes: If something goes wrong, you can always go back and select the original default program.
• Use third-party tools: If you’re having trouble, there are third-party tools available that can manage file associations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I set a file association to ‘None’?

If you set a file association to ‘None’, Windows will prompt you to choose a program the next time you open that file type.

Can I remove file associations for system files?

It’s generally not recommended to remove file associations for system files as it may affect system stability.

How do I reset all file associations to default?

You can reset all file associations by going to Settings > Apps > Default apps and clicking on ‘Reset’.

Are there any risks involved?

Changing file associations is generally safe but always back up your settings to avoid any unintended consequences.

Can I use the registry to change file associations?

Yes, advanced users can modify the Windows Registry to change file associations, but this is not recommended for beginners.

Summary

1. Open Settings
2. Go to Apps
3. Open Default Apps
4. Choose Default by File Type
5. Change or Remove an Association

Conclusion

There you have it—a complete guide on how to remove file association in Windows 10. By following these steps, you gain full control over which programs open your files, giving you a more tailored and efficient user experience. If you found this guide helpful, consider checking out other articles for more tips and tricks. Removing file associations might seem like a small tweak, but it can make a big difference in how smoothly your computer runs day to day. Happy computing!