If you’re looking to change the default PDF viewer on your Windows 11 computer, you’re in luck. It’s a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few steps. Essentially, you need to navigate to the settings menu, find the right option under default apps, and select your preferred PDF viewer. Once done, any PDF file you open will use the new program you’ve selected.
How to Change Default PDF Viewer Windows 11
Switching the default PDF viewer on Windows 11 can make your workflow smoother, especially if you prefer a specific software. Here’s a simple guide to help you through it.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, access the settings menu on your Windows 11 computer.
You can do this by clicking the Start button and selecting ‘Settings’ or by pressing Windows + I on your keyboard, which is the shortcut for opening settings.
Step 2: Select Apps
Next, navigate to the ‘Apps’ option in the settings menu.
Inside the settings screen, you’ll find a list of options on the left side. Click on ‘Apps’, which is usually the third option from the top.
Step 3: Click on Default Apps
Then, pick ‘Default Apps’ from the list under the Apps settings.
‘Default Apps’ is where you control which application Windows uses to open different types of files. Click it to proceed.
Step 4: Find PDF
Scroll down to find the PDF file type and find the option that says ‘Choose default apps by file type’.
This is where you’ll see a list of file types. Scroll down until you find .pdf, which stands for PDF files.
Step 5: Choose Your Preferred PDF Viewer
Finally, select the application you wish to use as your default PDF viewer.
Click on the current default PDF app, and a list will pop up with all available PDF viewers on your system. Choose your preferred one, and you’re all set!
Once these steps are completed, every time you open a PDF file, it will automatically use your chosen application instead of the previous default. This change will apply to all PDF files unless altered again in the settings.
Tips for Changing Default PDF Viewer Windows 11
- If your preferred PDF viewer is not listed, ensure it’s installed correctly on your system.
- Some PDF viewers offer additional features like annotation or editing, so choose one that fits your needs.
- You can always switch back to the original PDF viewer by following the same steps.
- Make sure your PDF viewer is updated to the latest version for the best performance.
- If you have multiple PDF viewers installed, experiment with each to find the one that suits you best.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I open the settings menu in Windows 11?
You can open the settings menu by clicking the Start button or pressing Windows + I on your keyboard.
What if my preferred PDF viewer isn’t an option?
Ensure that the PDF viewer is installed on your computer. If not, download and install it first.
Can I change the default PDF viewer back to the original?
Yes, simply follow the same steps and select the original app to set it as the default again.
What if I’m still having trouble changing the default viewer?
If you’re having issues, consider restarting your computer after making the changes.
Is there a way to quickly switch between PDF viewers?
Yes, right-click on the PDF file, choose ‘Open with,’ and select the preferred application for a one-time switch.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Select Apps.
- Click on Default Apps.
- Find PDF.
- Choose Your Preferred PDF Viewer.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Changing the default PDF viewer in Windows 11 is a breeze with just a few clicks. Doing so allows you to tailor your computer experience to your liking, ensuring that every time you open a PDF, it’s with a program you prefer. Whether you want a more feature-rich viewer or just something more familiar, having the option to choose is always a plus.
Remember, this is just one of the many ways Windows 11 lets you customize your experience. As you grow more comfortable with these settings, you’ll find that personalizing your computer can be an empowering process. If you’re curious about other customization tips or need further help, don’t hesitate to explore more articles or reach out to the Windows support community. Happy viewing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.