Set file type associations in Windows 7Windows XP had a nice file types editor (in Windows Explorer, Tools->Folder Options) that allows you to change the associations of file extensions with applications. In Vista, the File Types tab in the folder options was replaced with the File Associations applet in the Control Panel (Programs->Default Programs-> Associate a file type or protocol with a program). Unfortunately, the functionality of this applet is somewhat limited compared to its XP counterpart. For example, you can’t change the behavior of the edit or play context menu points in Windows Explorer. I hoped that in Windows 7, the more powerful XP file types editor would be revived, but I was disappointed.

Some tools that allow you to edit file type associations without messing with the Registry are available, but ASHociation is the only one I found that I liked and is for free. Actually, the full version costs 14.95 US dollars. However, the only difference is that the free edition displays a reminder for seven seconds before the tool starts. I think, this is acceptable, considering that you only need such a tool every now and then.

ASHociation

ASHociation has a few more options than the XP file types editor has. The only option I dislike is that it is impossible to browse to the application’s path. The fastest way to change a file association is to search for the application in the Windows Start Search prompt and then copy and paste the contents of the icon’s properties target field.

But ASHociation also has its limitations. Some applications change quite a few file associations, sometimes without warning. Changing everything back to its original state can be quite time consuming because you have to scroll through long lists to find all changed file extensions and then manually edit each of them.

Unassociate File Types Utility You can do this quicker with the free Unassociate File Types Utility because of its search function. You just have to start typing the file extension and the tool will jump to the corresponding file suffix. You can then either remove the file association (which restores the default file association) or delete the file type. The Unassociate File Types Utility is a standalone tool, and therefore, fits perfectly well on your USB stick. Next time you have to clean up the mess of a naughty installer, you will be thankful for this utility.

My Digital Life discussed a few additional file types editors. Please, let me know if you are using another tool for this purpose.