How to Change Your Default PDF Viewer

Changing your default PDF viewer means selecting the program that automatically opens when you double-click a PDF file. By setting your preferred PDF viewer as the default, you can ensure that your PDFs open in the program you find easiest to use. This can save you time and make your work more efficient.

03.09.24 Charles Griffiths

Changing your default PDF viewer is a simple process that can make managing your files much easier. By following these steps, you can ensure that your PDFs open in the program you prefer, saving you time and effort.

How to change default PDF viewer

  1. Open Settings: Start by opening the Settings menu on your computer. You can do this by clicking on the Start menu and selecting the gear icon.
  2. Go to Apps: In the Settings menu, find and click on the ‘Apps’ option. This will take you to a new menu where you can manage your installed programs.
  3. Default Apps: In the Apps menu, look for the ‘Default apps’ section. Click on it to see a list of default programs for various file types.
  4. Choose Default by File Type: Scroll down and find the option that says ‘Choose default apps by file type’. Click on it to see a list of file types and their associated default programs.
  5. Find .pdf: Scroll through the list until you find the .pdf file type. Next to it, you’ll see the current default program.
  6. Change the Default Program: Click on the current default program next to .pdf. A list of available programs will appear. Select the program you want to use as your default PDF viewer. If your preferred program isn’t listed, you might need to install it first.
  7. Confirm Your Choice: After selecting your preferred program, it will now be set as the default PDF viewer. You can close the Settings menu.

Free Tech Strategy

Are you looking for a free and clear business IT strategy? Find out how.
Book your FREE audit
News
Resources
Tech Tips
How to capture meeting minutes with Copilot

How to use Copilot to keep meeting minutes and action points (updated 2026)

05.01.26

Managing emails efficiently can be a daunting task. Copilot in Outlook can enable you to catch up, prepare and follow-up with ease. Read more. Read More

Business
News
Microsoft 365 CoPilot Image

What is Microsoft Copilot?

13.07.24

Microsoft Copilot is the new AI-powered assistant that promises to enhance productivity for businesses using 365 products. Read More

News
Resources
Tech Tips
How to use Copilot in Excel

How to use Microsoft Copilot in Excel

15.07.24

Managing huge data sets and organising multiple spreadsheets is often time-consuming and tedious. Microsoft Copilot offers teams a powerful tool for streamlining data analysis and a range of other tasks within Excel - we show you how. Read More

How can AAG help you with your IT Support?

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Name(Required)

Related insights

Browse more articles from our experts and discover how to make better use of IT in your business.

Business
News
A person in an AAG IT Services polo shirt sits at a white table in a bright office space, next to a large plush goose toy resting against their shoulder. Behind them, two colourful framed posters hang on the wall, one reading “She’s Electric.” and the other “Hello, I’ve waited here for you… Everlong.” Sunlight comes through wide window blinds on the left, illuminating the modern workspace.

Employee of the Quarter – Ben Bedford

09.03.26

Congratulations to Ben Bedford, our Service Delivery Manager, who has been awarded Employee of the Quarter. He embodies all of our values and we’re both proud and delighted to celebrate his work and achievements this quarter. Read More

Business
News
Two team members wearing black AAG-branded clothing standing outside the modern glass-fronted entrance of the AAG office, representing the company’s Managed IT Support services, with the large AAG logo visible above the doorway.

Welcoming Jake Taylor to the AAG service desk

02.02.26

IT service roles really do take all kinds, and we’re delighted to welcome former Head Chef, of the “Best Restaurant in Chesterfield” to AAG. Read More

Business
News
20 Questions to ask Your IT Provider

20 Essential Questions To Ask Your IT Provider in 2026

05.01.26

Ensure you're getting the best IT support. Ask your existing provider these 20 essential questions to evaluate their services and consider if it's time to switch. Read More