In Windows: How to set the default browser, email, etc

Problem

Scenario 1:

You are in a PDF reader and want to send the PDF file to someone else using the reader’s email function. (This function is usually found under the Files entry on the Menubar:
)

Scenario 2

You have a key on your keyboard that you can push to bring up your favorite email program.

Solution

Windows Vista and 7

Click the “Start Orb” and then, on the right side of the menu, select “Default Programs:”

Click “Default Programs”

Pick the program you want for email.

Click “Set this program as default.” Click OK. (If Windows responds with a request to assign file types… that’s an advanced topic.)

Windows XP

Click the Start button on the desktop. Click “Control Panel” on the right side. Click the Programs tab. Select the appropriate defaults from the lists.

In Summary

I’ve been especially brief on the XP instructions. That is because there is an excellent tutorial web page for all these techniques, complete with pictures: Free Mail Tutorials.