Fix Cannot Open Microsoft Print to PDF Files After Installing PDF Pack
Question details
The user cannot open PDF files created using Microsoft Print to PDF after installing the Adobe PDF Pack.
- Product
- Microsoft Print to PDF / Adobe PDF Pack
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to open and view local PDF files generated by Microsoft Print to PDF after installing new PDF software.
- Observed behavior
- The generated PDF files become unreadable or fail to open due to incorrect software file associations.
Verify that the PDF file itself is not corrupted by right-clicking the file and attempting to open it in a standard web browser like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.
Change the Default PDF Viewer in Windows
Reassign the default program for viewing PDF files to ensure they open correctly.
Because Adobe PDF Pack is an online service rather than a standalone desktop PDF reader, installing it or its related extensions may inadvertently alter your computer's default file associations. Resetting the default app to a dedicated local PDF reader will resolve this issue.
Press the Windows key + I on your keyboard to open the Settings app, then navigate to the 'Apps' section.
Click on 'Default apps' from the left sidebar menu and scroll down to select 'Choose default apps by file type'.
Find '.pdf' in the alphabetical list of file types and click on the current default application listed next to it.
Choose a trusted application like WPS Office, Adobe Acrobat Reader, or your preferred web browser from the pop-up list to set it as the new default PDF viewer.
Repair Your Current PDF Reader Installation
If changing the default app does not work, the installed PDF reader might have missing or corrupted files.
Open and Edit Your PDF Files Instantly with WPS Office
Bypass file association errors and unreadable document issues by using WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, comprehensive PDF reader and editor that effortlessly handles files created by Microsoft Print to PDF.
- 1. Download and Install: Download WPS Office for free from the official website and complete the straightforward installation process.
- 2. Launch WPS PDF: Open WPS Office on your computer and select the 'PDF' tab from the main interface.
- 3. Open Your File: Click the 'Open' button, navigate to the folder containing your Microsoft Print to PDF file, and select it to view the document instantly.
- 4. Set as Default: When prompted by the software or Windows, choose to set WPS Office as your default PDF viewer to prevent future opening issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Adobe PDF Pack change my PDF file associations?
Installing new PDF-related software, browser extensions, or updates can sometimes automatically override your system's default file associations, causing Windows to attempt to open files with a program or service that isn't configured for local offline viewing.
Does Adobe PDF Pack include a desktop PDF printer?
No, Adobe PDF Pack is a suite of online services designed for converting and combining documents in the cloud. It does not install a local 'Print to PDF' driver on your computer.
How can I tell if my PDF file is corrupted or just opening with the wrong app?
Right-click the PDF file, select 'Open with', and choose a standard web browser like Chrome or Edge. If the file displays correctly in the browser, the file itself is fine, and the issue lies exclusively with your default PDF viewer settings.
Can I still use Microsoft Print to PDF if I have other PDF software installed?
Yes, Microsoft Print to PDF is a built-in Windows feature that functions independently of third-party PDF software. You can continue using it to generate PDFs from any application without interference.
