answer
As an IT administrator, it is important to understand how Windows decides which executable to run in order to ensure the optimal performance of your system. Windows operating systems use a process known as “file association” to determine which executable should be run when a user clicks on an icon or attempts to open a file.
When a user attempts to open a file, Windows will first check the file’s extension. This is the part of the file’s name after the period and is usually three or four letters long (e.g., .exe, .doc, etc.). Windows will then look up the file extension in the registry to see which application is associated with it. The registry is a database that contains all of the settings and information associated with your computer.
Once the correct application is identified, Windows will then check the registry to see if the application is set to run in the background. If the application is set to run in the background, then Windows will start the application and the file will open automatically. If the application is not set to run in the background, then Windows will open a window prompting the user to choose an application to open the file with.
It is important to note that file associations can be changed at any time. For example, if you want a certain file type to open with a specific application, you can set the file association for that file type in the registry. Alternatively, you can also set the file association with the “Open With” command in the context menu for the file.
In addition to file associations, Windows also uses a feature called “File Type Handlers” to determine which executable to run. A File Type Handler is a program that is associated with a specific file type. For example, a File Type Handler for a .txt file might be Notepad.exe.
When a user attempts to open a file, Windows will check the registry to see if a File Type Handler is associated with the file type. If a File Type Handler is found, Windows will start the associated program and the file will open automatically. If a File Type Handler is not found, Windows will open a window prompting the user to choose an application to open the file with.
Finally, it is important to note that Windows can also use a feature called “Shell Extensions” to determine which executable to run. Shell Extensions are programs that are associated with a specific file type. For example, a Shell Extension for a .jpg file might be a program that provides additional features for viewing the file. When a user attempts to open a file, Windows will check the registry to see if a Shell Extension is associated with the file type. If a Shell Extension is found, Windows will start the associated program and the file will open automatically.
In summary, Windows uses a combination of file associations, File Type Handlers, and Shell Extensions to determine which executable to run when a user attempts to open a file. It is important for IT administrators to understand how Windows decides which executable to run in order to ensure the optimal performance of their system.
