After 25H2 update, .url file no longer be clickable, rather showing the file content on the webpage!?

Question

I have a whole bunch of .url (or shortcut links) files saved for web page easy access (other than bookmarks). It used to be just by easily clicking the .url filename then it'll take me to the web page. Now after that 25H2 system update, NOTHING works, rather the webpage just shows file contents. E.g.: (a simple "Microsoft Ignite.url" file like this)

[{000214A0-0000-0000-C000-000000000046}]
Prop3=19,11
[InternetShortcut]
IDList=
URL=https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/
HotKey=0

Why this is happenning? Is this something that 25H2 broke?

I've used Copilot to search for a resolution. NOTHING works either!

Microsoft Update team, you guys did a great job?!

Answer 1

One of the resolutions is to run DISM, but after the reboot, nothing work either.

It just frustrating.

Answer 2

Hi Billy Hao,
Welcome to Microsoft Q&A forum. I'm happy to help.

I will give you suggestions you may try to resolve the issue.

1. Default apps
   1. Open Settings > Apps > Default apps
   2. Search for your browser there (example: Microsoft Edge) and click on it
   3. Scroll down to HTTP and HTTPS
   4. Click on it and change to another browser (example: Firefox)
   5. Change it back to Microsoft Edge
   6. Test if shortcut links can open now
2. Re-associate the .url type
   1. Open Command Prompt and run this command
      assoc .url=InternetShortcut
   2. Test with shortcut links
3. Repair Microsoft Edge
   1. Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps
   2. Scroll down to Microsoft Edge
   3. Click ••• button > Modify
   4. Repair Microsoft Edge then try shortcut link again
4. Microsoft Edge settings
   1. Open Microsoft Edge
   2. Settings > Appearance > Browser behavior and features > Change URL copy and paste format
   3. Set it as Link
   4. Test the shortcut links

I hope that above solutions can help you fix the issue.

If the issue persists or you have any further questions, please let me know by "Comment".

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