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How to Fix PDF Files Opening in Internet Explorer Instead of Adobe Reader
Question details
PDF files are displaying an Internet Explorer icon and opening in the web browser instead of the installed Adobe Reader software.
- Product
- Windows / Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- After installing Adobe Acrobat Reader DC or encountering a system update, the default application for viewing PDF documents has changed unexpectedly.
- Observed behavior
- When double-clicking a PDF file, it automatically launches in Internet Explorer rather than Adobe Reader, and the file icon reflects the browser instead of Adobe.
Verify that Adobe Acrobat Reader DC, or your preferred PDF application, is fully installed and up-to-date on your system before adjusting the default file associations.
Change the Default PDF Application via the Context Menu
Reassign the default file association for PDF documents so they always open with your preferred PDF reader.
This is the fastest method to ensure your PDF files are associated with the correct application. It changes the default viewer globally without affecting the actual contents of the PDF.
Locate any PDF file on your computer and right-click on it to open the context menu.
Hover over 'Open with' from the drop-down list, then click on 'Choose another app'.
Select 'Adobe Acrobat Reader' from the list of available applications. If you do not see it, click 'More apps' to expand the list.
Check the box at the bottom that says 'Always use this app to open .pdf files'.
Click 'OK'. All PDF files will now display the Adobe Reader icon and open in the correct program.
Set Default Apps via Windows Settings
Use the Windows System Settings menu to globally change the default application for the .pdf file format.
Open and Edit PDFs Seamlessly with WPS Office
If you are experiencing continuous issues with default PDF readers or browser hijackings, switch to WPS Office. It includes a powerful, built-in PDF reader and editor that securely handles all your PDF documents. Easily set it as your default application to view, annotate, and modify PDFs without opening a web browser.
- 1. Download and Install: Download WPS Office for free from the official website and complete the straightforward installation process.
- 2. Open Your PDF: Right-click your PDF file, select 'Open with', and choose 'WPS Office' from the list.
- 3. Set as Default: Check the box for 'Always use this app to open .pdf files' to make WPS Office your permanent PDF handler.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my PDF default viewer change to Internet Explorer automatically?
Windows system updates, browser updates, or new software installations can sometimes reset your default file associations. Installing older web browser plugins might also hijack the .pdf file extension, causing PDFs to open in the browser.
Will changing the default application affect the content of my PDF files?
No. Changing the default application only tells the Windows operating system which program to launch when you open the file. It does not alter the formatting, text, or data saved within the PDF document itself.
What if Adobe Reader is not listed in the 'Choose another app' menu?
If your preferred reader isn't listed, click 'More apps' in the menu, scroll to the bottom, and click 'Look for another app on this PC'. You can then manually navigate to the Program Files folder to select the Adobe Acrobat executable file.
Can I use Microsoft Edge instead of Internet Explorer to read PDFs?
Yes. Modern versions of Windows use Microsoft Edge as the default built-in PDF reader. You can select Microsoft Edge using the same 'Open with' right-click method if you prefer a secure, browser-based viewer over Internet Explorer.
