Why do I need to change file associations manually in Windows 10 or 11?

Windows 10 and 11 do not always allow installers to set every media file association automatically, so changing the default app manually is often the quickest fix.

Can I use the same steps for music files?

Yes. In Default apps, choose the current Music player instead of the Video player, then select Windows Media Player.

Will this make every file type open in Windows Media Player?

It will make supported media types use Windows Media Player as the default player, but some apps and protected formats may still behave differently.

How to Change File Associations in Windows 10 and 11

Before you start

Windows does not always let installers change every media association automatically. If supported files are opening in Films & TV, Movies & TV, or another app, the quickest fix is to choose your default player manually in Settings.

Use this guide for video files such as MKV, MP4, AVI and similar formats that should open in Windows Media Player.
You can use the same method for music by changing the Music player instead of the Video player.

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Step-by-step instructions

Follow the steps below in order. After step 5, supported video files should open in Windows Media Player by default.

Step 1

Open Settings

Open the Start menu and select Settings. Windows 10 and 11 Settings

Step 2

Open System

In the Windows Settings window, select System. Windows Settings System menu

Step 3

Choose Default apps

In the left-hand menu, click Default apps. Windows Default apps screen

Step 4

Select the current video app

Under Video player, click the current app, commonly Films & TV or Movies & TV depending on your Windows version. Choose default applications in Windows

Tip: For music files, use the same area but change the current Music player instead.

Step 5

Choose Windows Media Player

Select Windows Media Player from the list. Supported video files should now open in Windows Media Player by default. Choose an application in Windows

Quick recap

Open Settings
Go to System
Select Default apps
Change the Video player
Pick Windows Media Player

If files still open incorrectly

Try opening the file once with Windows Media Player and confirm the choice if Windows prompts you.
Make sure the file type itself is supported and that the codec pack is installed correctly.
Visit the playback help pages if the file opens but still will not play correctly.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use the same steps for audio files?

Yes. In the same Default apps section, change the current Music player instead of the Video player.
Why did the installer not change this automatically?

Windows 10 and 11 limit how installers can change some default apps, so this setting often has to be changed manually.
Do I need the Standard, Plus, or Lite edition for this?

Any edition can help with format support, but Standard is the best starting point for most users.

Change File Associations in Windows 10 and 11