PDF Editing Issues

How to Open a PDF Attachment Without Closing the Original File

Chanuka GeekiyanageChanuka Geekiyanage Oct 28, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user wants to configure a PDF link to open an attachment in a new window rather than closing the parent document.

How to Open a PDF Attachment Without Closing the Original File
Product
WPS PDF
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Clicking a link created with a 'Go to a page view' action that targets a PDF attachment.
Observed behavior
The link successfully opens the PDF attachment, but automatically closes the original document containing the attachments.
Before you start

Ensure your PDF document is not in read-only mode, as you will need editing permissions to modify the link properties.

Solution 1Recommended

Change Link Action to Open in a New Window

Modify the link properties so that the attachment launches in a separate tab or window, keeping your main document accessible.

By default, link actions that navigate to a page view or an attachment might replace the current active window. Editing the specific action within the link's properties forces the PDF reader to spawn a new window for the attachment.

1
Access Link Properties

Select the link tool, right-click on the hyperlink within your PDF document, and select 'Properties' from the context menu.

2
Edit the Action

Navigate to the 'Actions' tab in the Properties dialog box to view the current behavior assigned to the link.

3
Change the Open Setting

Locate the 'Open In' setting (or target window setting) for the action and change it from the default to 'New Window'.

4
Save and Test

Click 'OK' to apply the changes. Save your PDF document, then click the link to verify that the attachment opens separately while the original PDF remains open.

Change Link Action to Open in a New Window
Configuration Saved: Once saved, anyone viewing the PDF will be able to open the attachment without losing their place in the original document.
Edit PDFs like a Pro

Manage PDF Links and Attachments Seamlessly with WPS PDF

WPS Office provides a powerful, built-in PDF editor that lets you easily manage hyperlinks, attachments, and document actions. You can configure attachments to open exactly how you want them to, without disrupting your reading flow.

  1. 1. Open your PDF in WPS Office: Launch WPS Office and open the PDF containing your links and attachments.
  2. 2. Enter Edit Mode: Click on the 'Edit' tab at the top of the screen to enable document modifications.
  3. 3. Adjust Link Settings: Select the 'Link' tool, right-click the specific link, choose Properties, and set it to open in a new window.
  4. 4. Save Your Work: Click 'Save' or press Ctrl+S to preserve your updated link settings.
Easily edit PDF text, images, and hyperlinksAdvanced options for managing PDF attachments and page viewsFully compatible with standard Adobe PDF formatsLightweight application that runs smoothly on Windows, Mac, and mobile
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my PDF close when I open an attachment?

By default, some PDF readers replace the current document window with the newly opened attachment if the link action is set to open in the same window. Modifying the link properties prevents this.

Can I change this setting for all links at once?

Link properties are generally configured on an individual basis. You will need to select each link and change its 'Open In' setting to 'New Window' unless you are using batch processing tools.

Does this setting work if I share the PDF with others?

Yes, link actions are saved within the PDF file itself. If you save the document after changing the action to 'New Window', other users will experience the same behavior when they click the link.

Can I attach non-PDF files and open them the same way?

Yes, you can attach various file types (like Word or Excel) to a PDF. When configuring the link to open these attachments, they will typically launch in their respective default applications, leaving your PDF open in the background.