Change the file association for an email attachment

Many types of files can be opened by more than one program. For example, you can open a photo with the Photos program or with Paint, among others. Follow these steps to change the default program that Windows uses to open each type of file.

1. In Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10, choose Start and then type Control Panel.

2. Choose Programs > Make a file type always open in a specific program. If you don't see Programs, choose Default Programs > Associate a file type or protocol with a program.

3. In the Set Associations tool, select the file type you want to change the program for, then choose Change program.

4. Once you've chosen the new program to use to open that file type, choose OK.

See Also

Open or save attachments

Troubleshoot attachment problems in Outlook