How to Set Microsoft Project 2013 as the Default Application
Question details
The user wants to configure Windows so that Microsoft Project files automatically open in Project 2013 rather than a newer or unlicensed version like Project 365.
- Product
- Microsoft Project 2013
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Multiple versions of Microsoft Project are installed on the same computer, causing file association conflicts.
- Observed behavior
- Double-clicking project files opens them in Project 365 or an unlicensed version by default, and Project 2013 may not appear in the standard Windows default apps list.
Ensure you have administrative privileges on your Windows computer and verify that Microsoft Project 2013 is fully installed and activated.
Change Default Apps by File Type in Windows Settings
Manually assign the specific Project file extensions (.mpp, .mpt, and .mpd) to Project 2013 using the Windows Settings menu.
This method forces Windows to bypass the newer Project 365 installation and explicitly map project management file types to your preferred Project 2013 client.
Click the Start menu and select the gear icon to open Windows Settings.
Go to 'Apps', then select 'Default apps' from the left-hand menu.
Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on 'Choose default apps by file type'.
Scroll down the list to find the .mpp, .mpt, and .mpd file extensions. Click the application currently assigned to them and select Microsoft Project 2013 from the list.
Repair the Microsoft Project 2013 Installation
If Project 2013 does not appear in the Default Apps list, running an Office repair will restore its registry keys and file associations.
A Lightweight, Free Alternative for Daily Office Tasks
While you resolve your Microsoft Project file associations, consider streamlining your broader document workflows. WPS Office is a highly compatible, free alternative to Microsoft Office that handles documents, spreadsheets, and presentations with ease without the licensing headaches.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package.
- 2. Install the Suite: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to set up WPS Office on your computer.
- 3. Open Office Files: Enjoy opening, editing, and saving your documents with seamless format compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does double-clicking a file open an unlicensed version of Project?
This happens when the default file association is linked to a newer or trial version of Project (like Project 365) that was installed after your licensed Project 2013. Windows defaults to the most recently installed program handling that file type.
Why isn't Project 2013 showing up in the Default Apps menu?
This is typically caused by a conflict between different installation technologies (MSI vs. Click-to-Run) when multiple Office versions exist on the same machine. Running an Office repair for Project 2013 usually restores its registry entries.
Can I use the 'Open With' menu to set the default app?
Yes. You can right-click the .mpp file, select 'Open with', then 'Choose another app'. Select Project 2013 from the list and be sure to check the box that says 'Always use this app to open .mpp files'.
