I'm trying to set up a routine that uses PS-SFTA to change file associations when I log in, and I also want to be able to run it from a desktop shortcut. Specifically, I need to:
- Set Adobe Acrobat Pro 10 as the default PDF viewer
- Set IrfanView as the default for JPG, BMP, and PNG files.
I know I can create a CMD file and execute it via a shortcut, but I'm not sure how to correctly call PS-SFTA or what parameters to use for these changes. I haven't been able to find examples that cover exactly what I need online.
4 Answers
I totally understand your frustration with file associations resetting after Windows updates. It can be a hassle to keep everything just how you want it. It sounds like creating a script to refresh these settings at login or on demand could really help. Have you tried looking at the PS-SFTA GUI? It might be easier than digging through PowerShell syntax, especially if you're not familiar with it. If you need a simple command to set everything back, let me know what specific file types you need to reset, and I might be able to help you craft that!
Yes, it's definitely doable! I usually deploy Adobe Reader file type associations using a Group Policy Object (GPO). You can set it up so it applies to all computers that have the free version installed, and then override it for users with licenses for Adobe Acrobat Pro. I've shared some examples and methods on my GitHub: https://github.com/mrmattipants/Adobe_Reader_And_Adobe_Acrobat_Pro_File_Type_Associations. Just keep in mind that PS-SFTA modifies the User FTAs, which take priority over Computer FTAs, so if you ever need to reset them, you have to remove the UserChoice Hash first using "Remove-FTA".
You might want to check out the usage section in the PS-SFTA README on GitHub for detailed guidance. It usually has examples that tailor to what you might be looking for. Here's a link: https://github.com/DanysysTeam/PS-SFTA#usage
To change those file associations, you'll need to modify the registry settings. You can usually retrieve the correct values by using the command line interface along with the specific file types as parameters.
It seems like you might have skipped looking at the documentation fully. It really can provide you with the information you need!