File association issues in Windows can be frustrating, especially when files don't open with the correct application. File Association Fixer 2 is a utility designed to resolve these issues by restoring the default file associations for various file types. This article will guide you through using File Association Fixer 2 to fix file association problems in Windows.

What is File Association Fixer 2?

File Association Fixer 2 is a free tool that helps restore default file associations in Windows. It is particularly useful when file types are not opening with the correct applications, often due to software installations, malware, or user error. The tool supports a wide range of file types, including common ones like .exe, .jpg, .txt, and more.

How to Use File Association Fixer 2

1. Download and Install File Association Fixer 2:

   • Visit a reputable website to download File Association Fixer 2.
   • Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the software on your Windows machine.

2. Launch File Association Fixer 2:

   • Open File Association Fixer 2 by double-clicking its icon on the desktop or searching for it in the Start menu.

3. Select the File Type to Fix:

   • The interface of File Association Fixer 2 is straightforward. You will see a list of file types that can be fixed.
   • Select the file type that you want to restore. For example, if .txt files are not opening with Notepad, select .txt from the list.

4. Fix the File Association:

   • Click on the "Fix" button next to the selected file type.
   • File Association Fixer 2 will automatically restore the default file association for that file type.

5. Verify the Fix:

   • Try opening a file of the type you just fixed to ensure it opens with the correct application.

Examples

Example 1: Fixing .exe File Association

If .exe files are not executing properly, follow these steps:

• Open File Association Fixer 2.
• Select the .exe file type from the list.
• Click "Fix" to restore the default association for executable files.

Example 2: Fixing .jpg File Association

If .jpg images are not opening with your preferred photo viewer:

• Open File Association Fixer 2.
• Select the .jpg file type.
• Click "Fix" to reset the association to the default photo viewer.

Alternative Methods

If you prefer not to use third-party software, you can manually fix file associations in Windows using the following methods:

• Control Panel:

  • Navigate to Control Panel > Default Programs > Set Associations.
  • Find the file type and change the program associated with it.

• Command Prompt:

  • Use the assoc command to view and change file associations. For example:

    assoc .txt=txtfile

  • This command sets the .txt files to open with the default text editor.

• PowerShell:

  • Use PowerShell to modify file associations. For example:

    Set-ItemProperty -Path "HKCU:\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FileExts\.txt\UserChoice" -Name "ProgId" -Value "txtfile"