Windows XP has the ability to create file type association for a new file extension in Control Panel, Folder Options, File Types tab. Unfortunately, the File Types tab is removed in Windows Vista and the Default Programs applet does not provide an option to create new file type association.
You can however use the Open With option to associate new or existing file types with applications of your choice.
Creating New file type association
1. Find a file with the extension that you wish to add
2. Right-click the file and choose Open
3. Click Select a program from a list of installed programs
4. Click OK
5. If the application is not listed in the Open With dialog, click Browse and locate the executable.
6. Make sure that the following checkbox is enabled:
7. Click OK.
File type association is now created for the new file type, but only for the current user account. If you have many user accounts in the system and you want to create a global file association setting, you can use the ASSOC and FTYPE commands. These commands need to be used from an elevated Command Prompt window.
Example
To associate the file type .mx with c:\windows\mxviewer.exe, run the following commands from an elevated Command Prompt window.
This associates .mx file type with mxviewer.exe. To add other file class data, such as setting the default icon or customizing the file type description, you’ll have to use the Registry Editor or use one of the third-party alternatives mentioned below.
Alternatives to the File Types tab
File Type Doctor – Creative Element Power Tools
FileTypesMan – Alternative to ‘File Types’ manager of Windows
[Unassoc] An utility to unassociate file types in Windows Vista
Related Posts
- Unable to Open .EMAIL File Attachments in Windows Mail
- “Open File Location” Entry Missing When Right-Clicking a Shortcut in Windows 7 and Windows Vista
- How to Remove “Always Use the Selected Program” Option From Open With Dialog
- Error “This File Does Not Have a Program Associated With It” When Launching a Game From Games Explorer
- Display a Warning When Users Try to Modify .Lnk Association in Vista
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to our RSS feed! We feature Tips, Troubleshooting information, Scripts and Utilities for Microsoft Windows Operating Systems!
Prefer an E-mail subscription?





I was haveing trouble geting internet radio working, an erroe poped up saying there was no program associated with the file type. I fallowed these instructions and wala it works big TY!