Windows

Make Vlc Default Windows 11

When it comes to media players on Windows 11, there's one name that stands out - VLC. With its wide range of supported formats and powerful features, VLC has become a favorite among users. But did you know that you can make VLC your default media player on Windows 11? By doing so, you can ensure that all your media files open automatically in VLC, providing you with a seamless and personalized media experience.

VLC's long history and reputation as a reliable media player make it a popular choice for Windows 11 users. Since its release in the early 2000s, VLC has continuously evolved, gaining a strong following due to its ability to play almost any audio or video format without the need for additional codecs. With Windows 11, making VLC your default media player is a simple process that can save you time and hassle. By accessing the settings in Windows 11, you can set VLC as the default player and enjoy its comprehensive features right from the start. With this solution, you can bid goodbye to incompatible file errors and start enjoying your media collection hassle-free.



Make Vlc Default Windows 11

Why Make VLC Default in Windows 11?

Windows 11 comes with its default media player, but many users prefer the versatility and advanced features of VLC Media Player. VLC is a free and open-source multimedia player that supports a wide range of audio and video formats. It offers various customization options, advanced playback controls, and compatibility across different platforms. Making VLC the default media player in Windows 11 allows you to enjoy a seamless multimedia experience and take advantage of VLC's rich features. In this article, we will guide you on how to make VLC the default media player in Windows 11.

Step 1: Installing VLC Media Player

The first step in making VLC the default media player in Windows 11 is to ensure that you have VLC Media Player installed on your system. If you don't have VLC installed, you can download it for free from the official VLC website or through trusted software repositories.

To download VLC from the official website, follow these steps:

  • Open your preferred web browser.
  • Navigate to the official VLC website at https://www.videolan.org.
  • Click on the "Download VLC" button.
  • Choose the appropriate version for your Windows operating system (32-bit or 64-bit).
  • Start the installation by running the downloaded setup file.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Alternative Method: Installing VLC from Microsoft Store

If you prefer to install apps from the Microsoft Store, you can also download and install VLC Media Player directly from there. Here's how:

  • Open the Microsoft Store app on your Windows 11 computer.
  • Search for "VLC Media Player" using the search bar at the top right corner.
  • Click on the "VLC Media Player" app from the search results.
  • Click on the "Get" button to start the installation.
  • Wait for the installation to finish, and the app will be ready to use.

Step 2: Configuring VLC as the Default Media Player

Once you have VLC Media Player installed on your Windows 11 system, you can proceed with configuring it as the default media player. Follow these steps:

  • Open the "Settings" app in Windows 11. You can do this by clicking on the "Start" button and selecting the "Settings" icon.
  • In the "Settings" window, click on the "Apps" category.
  • In the left sidebar, click on the "Defaults" option.
  • Scroll down and find the "Choose default apps" section.
  • Click on the "Video player" option.
  • A list of available video players will appear. Select "VLC Media Player" from the list.

Default File Associations

If you want to use VLC as the default player for specific file types, you can configure the file associations accordingly. Here's how:

  • In the "Settings" app, navigate to the "Apps" category and click on "Defaults" as mentioned in the previous steps.
  • Scroll down and find the "Choose default apps" section.
    • To set VLC as the default player for a specific file type, click on the file type (e.g., MP3, MP4, AVI) under the "Music player" or "Video player" options.
    • A list of available apps will appear. Select "VLC Media Player" to associate it with that file type.

Enhancing VLC Experience in Windows 11

VLC Media Player offers several features and customization options that can enhance your multimedia experience in Windows 11. Here are some tips and tricks to make the most out of VLC:

1. Customize VLC Interface

VLC allows you to customize its interface according to your preferences. You can change the skin, enable or disable specific menu items, and adjust the layout. To access the interface customization options:

  • Open VLC Media Player.
  • Click on "Tools" in the menu bar.
  • Select "Preferences" from the drop-down menu.
  • In the Preferences window, expand the "Interface" category.
  • Explore the different customization options and make changes as desired.

2. Use Keyboard Shortcuts

VLC supports a wide range of keyboard shortcuts to control playback, navigate through media files, and access various features. Learning and using these shortcuts can significantly improve your efficiency when using VLC. Here are some commonly used keyboard shortcuts:

Shortcut Action
Spacebar Play/Pause
F Toggle Fullscreen
Arrow Left/Right Navigate Backward/Forward
Ctrl + Arrow Up/Down Volume Up/Down
C Crop Video

3. Enable Video Filters and Effects

VLC provides various video filters and effects that can enhance your viewing experience. You can adjust brightness, contrast, saturation, and apply filters like sharpening or deinterlacing. To access the video filters and effects:

  • Open VLC Media Player.
  • Click on "Tools" in the menu bar.
  • Select "Effects and Filters" from the drop-down menu.
  • In the "Video Effects" tab, explore the available options and toggle them on or off as desired.

4. Stream Online Content

In addition to playing local media files, VLC also allows you to stream online content, including internet radio stations and online video streams. To access online streaming features:

  • Open VLC Media Player.
  • Click on "Media" in the menu bar.
  • Select "Open Network Stream" from the drop-down menu.
  • Enter the URL of the online stream or choose from the available options.
  • Click "Play" to start streaming the content.

By following these tips, you can enhance your VLC experience and make it the default media player in Windows 11. Enjoy the versatility and advanced features that VLC offers for an immersive multimedia experience.


Make Vlc Default Windows 11

Setting VLC as the Default Media Player in Windows 11

Windows 11 comes with its default media player, but many users prefer VLC Media Player due to its feature-richness and versatility. If you want to make VLC your default media player in Windows 11, follow these simple steps:

1. Open the Settings app by clicking on the Start menu and selecting "Settings".

2. In the Settings app, click on "Apps" and then choose "Default Apps" from the left sidebar.

3. Scroll down to the "Media Player" section and click on the current default media player.

4. A list of available media players will appear. Select VLC Media Player from the list.

5. You may need to confirm the selection by clicking "Yes" in the pop-up window.

That's it! VLC Media Player is now set as your default media player in Windows 11. From now on, all your media files will open with VLC by default.


Key Takeaways - Make VLC Default Windows 11

  • VLC Media Player is a popular and versatile media player for Windows 11.
  • You can set VLC as the default media player on Windows 11 by following a few simple steps.
  • To make VLC the default player, go to the "Settings" menu and then click on "Apps."
  • Next, click on "Default apps" and then scroll down to find the "Media player" section.
  • Click on the dropdown menu under "Media player" and select "VLC Media Player."

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making VLC the default media player in Windows 11:

1. How can I make VLC the default media player in Windows 11?

To make VLC the default media player in Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Right-click on any media file (audio or video) and select "Open with" from the context menu.

2. Click on "Choose another app."

3. Select "VLC media player" from the list of available apps.

4. Check the box that says "Always use this app to open .[file extension] files."

5. Click "OK."

Now, VLC will be the default media player for that file type in Windows 11.

2. Can I make VLC the default media player for all file types?

Yes, you can make VLC the default media player for all file types in Windows 11. Here's how:

1. Open the "Settings" app in Windows 11.

2. Go to "Apps" and then click on "Default apps."

3. Scroll down and click on "Set defaults by app."

4. Find and click on "VLC media player" in the list of apps.

5. Click on "Manage."

6. Check the box next to "Select all" or individually select the file types you want VLC to open by default.

7. Click "Save."

3. What should I do if VLC does not appear in the list of available apps?

If VLC does not appear in the list of available apps when trying to set it as the default media player in Windows 11, you may need to reinstall VLC. Follow these steps:

1. Uninstall VLC from your computer.

2. Download the latest version of VLC from the official website.

3. Install VLC using the downloaded setup file.

4. Follow the previous instructions to make VLC the default media player in Windows 11.

4. Can I revert back to the default media player in Windows 11?

Yes, you can revert back to the default media player in Windows 11. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Open the "Settings" app in Windows 11.

2. Go to "Apps" and then click on "Default apps."

3. Scroll down and click on "Set defaults by app."

4. Find and click on the default media player app (e.g., "Windows Media Player") in the list of apps.

5. Click on "Manage."

6. Check the box next to "Select all" or individually select the file types you want the default media player to open.

7. Click "Save."

5. Are there any other media players I can set as the default in Windows 11?

Yes, in addition to VLC, there are other media players you can set as the default in Windows 11. Some popular options include:

- Windows


To summarize, making VLC the default media player on Windows 11 offers several benefits. Firstly, VLC is a versatile and feature-rich player that supports a wide range of media formats, ensuring compatibility with various file types. Secondly, VLC's user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make it easy for users of all levels to navigate and enjoy their media files.

Furthermore, VLC's extensive customization options allow users to personalize their media playback experience according to their preferences. By setting VLC as the default player, users can ensure that their media files will always open in a reliable, efficient, and highly customizable player. Whether it's watching movies, listening to music, or streaming online content, VLC as the default media player on Windows 11 provides a seamless and enjoyable multimedia experience.


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