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How to Fix Windows 10 Not Opening JPG Files: Step-by-Step Solutions

Sometimes, you might find that Windows 10 does not open JPG files as expected. This can be frustrating, especially when you need quick access to your photos. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to fix this issue.

This guide will walk you through easy and detailed steps to solve the problem. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow along. Just take your time and follow each step carefully.

By the end, you should be able to open your JPG files without any trouble. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into solutions.

These tips are designed to help you understand why JPG files might not open and how to fix it efficiently.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before trying complex fixes, make sure of a few simple things that might be causing the problem:

  • Check the JPG files: Ensure the JPG files are not corrupted. Try opening them on another device if possible.
  • Default Photo Viewer: Confirm if you have a default app set to open JPG files in Windows 10. Sometimes no default app is assigned.
  • Windows Updates: Make sure your Windows 10 is up to date. Updates often include important fixes.
  • File Location: Verify that the files are accessible and not stored on a disconnected network drive or external storage.

Step 1: Set the Default App to Photos

Windows 10 uses a default app to open image files like JPG. If this is not set properly, JPGs won’t open.

  1. Right-click on any JPG file on your computer.
  2. Choose Open with from the menu, then click Choose another app.
  3. Select Photos from the list of apps.
  4. Check the box that says Always use this app to open .jpg files.
  5. Click OK.

This ensures that every time you double-click a JPG file, it opens with the Windows Photos app, which is the default image viewer.

Step 2: Repair or Reset the Photos App

If the Photos app is corrupted, JPG files may fail to open. Repairing or resetting the app can fix this.

  1. Click on the Start button and open Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to Apps, then select Apps & features.
  3. Scroll down and find Microsoft Photos, click on it.
  4. Click Advanced options.
  5. First, click Repair and wait for the process to finish.
  6. If repairing doesn’t work, click Reset. This will clear app data and settings.

Repairing or resetting helps fix any internal issues with the Photos app without affecting your files.

Step 3: Use an Alternative Image Viewer

If the Photos app still doesn’t work, try an alternative image viewer. This can tell you if the problem is with the app or the files themselves.

  • IrfanView and XnView are popular free image viewers.
  • Download and install one of these apps from their official website.
  • Right-click your JPG file, select Open with, and choose the new app.

If the JPG opens in an alternative app, the issue likely lies with the Photos app or Windows settings.

Step 4: Update Graphics Drivers

Sometimes outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can cause display issues, including problems opening JPG files.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Display adapters section.
  3. Right-click your graphics card and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. Follow the prompts to install any available updates.
  6. Restart your computer after the update.

Keeping your graphics driver updated ensures smooth display of images and videos.

Step 5: Run the System File Checker

Corrupted system files can prevent Windows from opening JPG files correctly. The System File Checker (SFC) tool helps repair these files.

  1. Type cmd in the Windows search bar.
  2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the command window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  4. Wait for the scan to complete. It may take some time.
  5. If any issues are found, the tool will try to fix them automatically.
  6. Restart your computer once done.

This step helps fix system issues that might be blocking JPG files from opening.

Step 6: Check File Associations via Settings

If your file associations are messed up, Windows may not know which program to use for JPG files.

  1. Open Settings from the Start menu.
  2. Go to Apps, then click Default apps on the left sidebar.
  3. Scroll down and click Choose default apps by file type.
  4. Find the .jpg extension in the list.
  5. Make sure it is set to open with Photos or your preferred image viewer.

Resetting file associations ensures Windows knows how to handle JPG files correctly.

FAQs

Why won’t my JPG files open even after setting the default app?

Your JPG files might be corrupted or saved in an unsupported format. Try opening the files on another device or with a different image viewer to confirm.

Can a virus cause JPG files not to open?

Yes, malware can sometimes affect file access. Run a full antivirus scan to rule out infections.

Is it possible to recover corrupted JPG files?

There are specialized recovery tools available, but success is not guaranteed. Always keep backups of important photos.

Why does Windows sometimes open JPG files with Paint instead of Photos?

This happens if Paint is set as the default program for JPG files. You can change this in the default apps settings.

Do I need to reinstall Windows to fix JPG file issues?

Reinstalling Windows is a last resort and usually unnecessary. Most issues can be fixed using the steps above.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still cannot open JPG files on Windows 10, consider these final options:

  • Create a new user account: Sometimes user profile corruption causes app issues. Try opening JPGs from a new account.
  • Run Windows Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot and run the troubleshooter for apps or files.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support website for further help.
  • Use third-party recovery tools: If files are corrupted, specialized software might help recover them.

Conclusion

JPG files not opening on Windows 10 can be caused by simple issues like incorrect default apps or corrupted Photos app files. By following the step-by-step solutions above, you can fix most problems without advanced technical knowledge.

Start with checking your file and app settings, then move on to repairing apps or updating drivers. Always keep your system updated and run scans if needed. If all else fails, seek professional help or Microsoft’s official support.

With patience and these easy steps, your JPG files should open smoothly again, letting you enjoy your pictures hassle-free.

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