How to Install Adobe Reader and Fix PDF Files Opening in Word
Question details
The user needs to verify the installation of a PDF reader and fix a file association issue that causes PDF documents to open in Microsoft Word.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Attempting to open a PDF file, but it launches in the wrong application.
- Observed behavior
- PDF documents are automatically opening and converting in Microsoft Word instead of launching in a dedicated PDF reader.
Ensure you are connected to the internet to download any required software, and save any ongoing work in Microsoft Word before changing your system's default file associations.
Set Adobe Reader as the Default PDF Application
Change your Windows default app settings to ensure PDF files always open in your dedicated PDF reader instead of Microsoft Word.
If Adobe Reader is already installed but PDFs still open in Word, your system's file associations have been altered. Reassigning the default program will permanently resolve this issue.
Open File Explorer and navigate to a folder containing any PDF file on your Windows computer. Right-click on the file.
Hover over 'Open with' in the context menu, then select 'Choose another app' from the extended list.
Choose Adobe Acrobat Reader (or your preferred PDF viewer) from the list of available applications.
Check the box at the bottom that says 'Always use this app to open .pdf files' and click 'OK'.
Verify and Install Adobe Acrobat Reader
Confirm if the software is actually installed on your system, and download it from the official website if it is missing.
Open and Edit PDFs Seamlessly with WPS Office
WPS Office includes a powerful built-in PDF reader and editor. By setting WPS as your default PDF application, you can view, annotate, and easily convert PDF files back and forth to Word without needing separate heavy software.
- 1. Download and Install: Download WPS Office from the official website and run the quick installer.
- 2. Open WPS PDF: Launch WPS Office and click on the 'PDF' tab on the home screen to access the PDF tools.
- 3. Set as Default: When prompted by the application or through your Windows settings, set WPS PDF as your default application for viewing PDF files.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my PDF files keep opening in Microsoft Word?
This happens when your operating system's default file association for .pdf files gets changed to Microsoft Word. Windows will then use Word to attempt to open and convert the PDF into a readable document instead of using a dedicated PDF reader.
Do I have to pay to use Adobe Acrobat Reader?
Adobe Acrobat Reader is free for basic viewing, printing, and commenting on PDF files. However, advanced features like editing text or converting formats require a paid subscription to Acrobat Pro.
How do I stop Microsoft Edge from opening my PDFs?
To stop Edge from being the default, right-click a PDF file, select 'Open with' > 'Choose another app', pick your preferred PDF reader like Adobe or WPS Office, check the 'Always use this app' box, and click OK.
Can I edit a PDF file once it is opened in a reader?
Basic PDF readers only allow viewing and commenting. To edit the actual text, modify layouts, or manipulate images within a PDF, you need a dedicated PDF editor such as WPS PDF or Adobe Acrobat Pro.
