In Windows when clicking a file get 'Open With' prompt.
Issue
In Windows when clicking a file get 'Open With' prompt'.
Cause
- The file is not associated with a program.
- The program used to open the file is not installed on the computer.
Solution
As shown in the below illustration, the Open With window may appear when a user attempts to open a file that Microsoft Windows does not know how to handle. If you believe you have a program capable of handling this file, locate the file within this window, highlight it and click ok. If you do not see the program listed, click the Other button and browse to the location of the program used to open this file.
If you wish to continue to use this program to open this file in the future check the "Always use this program to open this type of file" option.
Windows 95, 98, and
NT: If Windows is opening the file with the incorrect program users can press and hold the Shift key and right-click the file to get the "Open With" option to select a different program to open the file with. Other versions of Windows will always has this option available.
Other Windows users: Other versions of Microsoft users can right-click the file and choose "Open With" without holding down the Shift key.
Additional information
- How to associate a file with a program in Windows.
- Viewing the contents of a file.
- Full listing of computer file extensions.