Set Program Access and Computer Defaults: frequently asked questions

Here are some answers to common questions about Set Program Access and Computer Defaults.

Show contentHide content Do I need to be logged in as an administrator to make changes?
Yes, to change these settings, you must be logged on to your computer as an administrator.

Show contentHide content Can I specify different default programs for different users?
Yes, but you can't use Set Program Access and Computer Defaults. To specify different default programs for different users, see Change which programs Windows uses by default. The default programs selected in Set Program Access and Computer Defaults apply to everyone who uses your computer.

Show contentHide content Can I set my preferred non-Microsoft programs as defaults in Set Program Access and Computer Defaults?
It depends. To appear in Set Program Access and Computer Defaults, programs must be registered in the Windows registry. Typically, programs register themselves during installation.

If your program doesn't appear in the list, it hasn't been registered and can't be set as the default program using Set Program Access and Computer Defaults. For assistance, contact the manufacturer of the program.

Show contentHide content Can I remove a non-Microsoft program from the Start menu?
Most of the time, you can, but software manufacturers determine how their products work with Set Program Access and Computer Defaults. Some non-Microsoft programs might continue to show icons on the Start menu and elsewhere even if you clear the Enable access to this program check box.

Show contentHide content Can I change the Custom option so it isn't selected every time I open Set Program Access and Computer Defaults?
No. By default, the feature opens with Custom selected.