How do I force change default file type handler using GPO for all users in my organization.

Question

On Windows 8 and above how do I change default file handler for a file type on all computers in my organization? Is there any such option available via GPO? 

I know that on Win 8 and above each user can set their default file handlers by using "Open With" option when they right click on a file but I want to override their choice and enforce the default file type handler whenever they login again. How can I do this via GPO?

Answer 1

Here are excellent instructions that I've used myself before:

How to Deploy Windows 8 Enterprise File Type Associations

In the future, you should know that Microsoft Community forums are not the correct place to ask this type of question. These forums are geared at assisting consumers with their personal computing questions. 

The Microsoft TechNet forumsare a better place to get your IT-related questions answered.  

Let us know if this solution worked for you.

Answer 2

The solution for Windows 7 does not involve DISM; however, you cannot apply the Windows 7 method to later versions of Windows because management has changed. I personally have never deployed custom application defaults for Windows 7 because it didn't have half-baked apps like Windows 8 does. Therefore, I can't really provide any experience.

Answer 3

Thanks aakkam, I'll take my queries to Technet forum next time. By the way is there a non DISM solution also available that covers Windows 7 and above.