Encountering the “Filetype Selected Not Supported This App” error on Windows 11 can be frustrating. This message usually appears when you try to open a file type that your selected app does not recognize or support. Fortunately, there are straightforward ways to fix this issue.
This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step solutions to get your files opening smoothly again. Whether you are dealing with images, videos, documents, or other file types, these methods cover common causes and fixes.
By following these instructions carefully, you will understand why the error occurs and how to resolve it effectively. Let’s get started and troubleshoot the problem together.
No technical experience is needed — all steps are explained clearly so anyone can follow along.
Quick Note Before You Begin
Before trying to fix the error, please check these basic points to save time:
- Make sure the file you are trying to open is not corrupted or incomplete.
- Verify that the file extension (like .jpg, .pdf, .mp4) matches the file type you expect.
- Confirm that the app you want to use is properly installed and updated.
- Check for Windows updates that might improve system compatibility.
Step 1: Use the Default App Settings to Change File Associations
Windows 11 may not have the correct app set to open your file type. Changing the default app can resolve this easily.
- Click the Start button and select Settings.
- Go to Apps on the left panel, then click Default Apps.
- Scroll down and find the file extension (for example,
.jpgor.pdf) you want to open. - Click on the file extension and choose the appropriate app from the list that supports this file type.
- Close Settings and try opening your file again.
Why this matters: Setting the proper default app ensures Windows knows which program can handle the file format, preventing unsupported app errors.
Step 2: Manually Open the File Using a Compatible App
If changing the default app doesn’t work, try opening the file directly from a known compatible program.
- Right-click the file you want to open.
- Select Open with from the context menu.
- Choose an app that supports the file type. If you don’t see it, click Choose another app.
- If the app is not listed, select More apps or browse your computer to find the executable file.
- Open the file and confirm it works.
Why this helps: Sometimes the default app settings are not updated properly. Opening the file manually bypasses those settings.
Step 3: Install or Update the Required App
Your chosen app might be outdated or missing support for newer file types. Installing or updating the app can fix compatibility problems.
- Go to the Microsoft Store or the official website of the app.
- Download and install the latest version of the app that supports your file type.
- Restart your computer after installation to apply changes.
- Try opening the file again.
Why keep apps updated: Developers continuously improve their software to support more file formats and fix bugs that cause errors.
Step 4: Use Windows Troubleshooter for Apps
Windows 11 includes troubleshooters that can automatically detect and fix issues with apps and file associations.
- Open Settings and go to System.
- Click on Troubleshoot, then select Other troubleshooters.
- Find Windows Store Apps and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to fix detected problems.
- After the troubleshooter finishes, try opening your file again.
Why use troubleshooters: They can automatically identify and fix configuration errors that cause unsupported file type messages.
Step 5: Reset the App to Its Default Settings
If the app opens but still does not support the file type, resetting the app might help.
- Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Find the app you use to open your file and click the three-dot menu next to it.
- Select Advanced options.
- Scroll down and click Reset.
- Confirm the reset and wait for the process to finish.
- Try opening the file again.
Why reset: This clears any corrupted settings or caches that might prevent the app from recognizing certain file types.
Alternative Method: Convert the File to a Supported Format
If none of the above steps work, the file itself might be in an uncommon format. You can try converting the file to a more widely supported format.
- Use an online file converter tool (search for “convert [filetype] to [desired filetype]”).
- Upload your file and choose a compatible output format (for example, convert .heic images to .jpg).
- Download the converted file and try opening it again.
Why convert: Converting files to standard formats ensures compatibility with most apps and avoids unsupported errors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why does Windows say “Filetype Selected Not Supported This App”?
A: This message appears when the app you are using does not recognize or support the file format you are trying to open. It often happens if file associations are incorrect or the app lacks support.
Q: Can I open unsupported files without installing new software?
A: Sometimes, changing the default app or manually selecting a different compatible app can solve the problem without installing anything new.
Q: What if the file itself is corrupted?
A: Corrupted files cannot be opened properly. Try obtaining a clean copy of the file or use file repair tools if available.
Q: How do I know which app supports my file type?
A: You can search online for your file extension (for example, “.mkv”) to find popular apps that open that format. Microsoft Store also lists supported files for apps.
Q: Is it safe to reset an app?
A: Yes, resetting an app only clears its settings and cache. It does not delete your personal files. However, you may need to sign in again if the app requires it.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the above solutions and still face the error, consider these final options:
- Seek help from Microsoft Support: https://support.microsoft.com
- Reinstall Windows 11 as a last resort if system files are corrupted.
- Use third-party file management or repair software specialized for your file type.
Remember to back up important files before attempting advanced fixes.
Conclusion
The “Filetype Selected Not Supported This App” error on Windows 11 typically results from incorrect file associations, outdated apps, or unsupported file formats. By carefully following the step-by-step solutions—changing default apps, manually opening files, updating or resetting apps, and using Windows troubleshooters—you can resolve the issue in most cases.
If needed, converting the file format is a practical alternative to ensure compatibility. Always verify your files are not corrupted and keep your system and apps updated.
With these clear and simple methods, you should be able to open your files without error and enjoy a smoother Windows 11 experience.