How to Make VLC Default Player on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Michael Collins

How to Make VLC Default Player Windows 11

Want to make VLC your default player on Windows 11? It’s a quick and simple process! You just need to navigate to your system settings, find the default apps settings, and switch the default media player to VLC. Follow the steps below to get VLC as your go-to media player in no time.

How to Make VLC Default Player Windows 11

Changing your default media player to VLC on Windows 11 ensures that all your media files open in VLC automatically. Here are the steps:

Step 1: Open Settings

First, you need to open the Settings app on your Windows 11 device.

You can do this by clicking on the Start menu and selecting the gear icon, or simply pressing "Windows + I" on your keyboard.

Step 2: Go to Apps

Next, navigate to the Apps section within the Settings menu.

In the Settings window, find and click on "Apps" from the sidebar. This section houses all the settings related to applications on your device.

Step 3: Select Default Apps

Choose the Default Apps option from the Apps settings.

Default Apps is where you can set default applications for various tasks like email, maps, music player, and more. Click on it to proceed.

Step 4: Find Video Player

Scroll down until you see the Video Player section, then click on the current default video player listed.

The current default player might be "Movies & TV" or something else. Click on it to see the options.

Step 5: Choose VLC Media Player

Select VLC Media Player from the list that appears.

After clicking on the current default player, a list of available video players will pop up. Choose VLC Media Player from this list.

Step 6: Confirm the Change

Confirm your selection to set VLC as the default player.

Once you select VLC, it should instantly become your default media player for videos. There’s no need to save any changes; it happens automatically.

After completing these steps, all the video files will automatically open with VLC Media Player. If you later decide to switch back to another player, you can follow the same steps.

Tips for Making VLC Default Player Windows 11

  • Check for Updates: Make sure VLC Media Player is updated to the latest version for the best performance.
  • Use File Explorer: You can also set VLC as default for specific file types by right-clicking the file and selecting "Open With".
  • Customize Preferences: Explore VLC settings to fine-tune performance and appearance.
  • Keyboard Shortcuts: Learn VLC keyboard shortcuts for a more efficient experience.
  • Explore Plugins: VLC supports various plugins to enhance functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reset my default apps in Windows 11?

Go to Settings > Apps > Default Apps and scroll down to the "Reset" button. Click it to reset all defaults.

Can I set VLC as the default for audio files too?

Yes, repeat the same steps but choose an audio file type in the Default Apps section.

Is VLC better than the default Movies & TV app?

Many users prefer VLC due to its extensive format support and robust features.

What if VLC is not listed in the options?

Ensure VLC is installed correctly. Re-install if necessary and check again.

Can I make VLC the default player for DVDs?

Yes, you can set VLC as the default for DVDs in the Default Apps settings under the "Video Player" section.

Summary

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Go to Apps.
  3. Select Default Apps.
  4. Find Video Player.
  5. Choose VLC Media Player.
  6. Confirm the change.

Conclusion

Making VLC your default player on Windows 11 is a breeze and can greatly enhance your media experience. With VLC’s wide range of supported formats and customizable features, you’ll enjoy hassle-free playback of all your favorite videos and audio files. Whether you’re watching movies, listening to music, or playing any other media, VLC offers a seamless and efficient experience.

So, take a moment to follow the steps outlined above and elevate your media playback to the next level. If you’re a media enthusiast or just someone who appreciates a reliable media player, setting VLC as your default on Windows 11 is a smart move.

For further reading, check out VLC’s official website for more tips and tutorials, and don’t forget to explore the settings to personalize your VLC experience. Happy viewing!