How to enable, configure and set AutoPlay defaults in Windows 11/10

Windows 10 lets you easily set the AutoPlay defaults for media, devices & folders via the Settings app. The Windows AutoPlay feature is a nice feature for users when they insert media via CD\DVD, USB, or Media Cards. AutoPlay lets you choose which program to use to start different kinds of media, such as DVD, CD, etc., containing music, video, photo, etc. AutoPlay is different from AutoRun. Autorun is used to start some programs or enhanced media content automatically when you insert a CD, DVD, or another media type into your computer.

Set AutoPlay defaults in Windows 11/10

While you can enable or disable AutoPlay using Control panel, Group Policy, or Registry Editor, Windows 10 lets you enable, disable and set AutoPlay defaults easily via the Settings app.

Open Settings app and click on Devices. Select AutoPlay from the left side.

To enable AutoPlay, move the Use AutoPlay for all media and devices button to On.

Next, you can choose and set your AutoPlay defaults.

Manage AutoPlay settings for Removable Drive on Windows 11/10

For Removable drives, the following options are available from the drop-down menu:

1. Configure storage settings (Settings)
2. Take no action
3. Open folder to view files
4. Ask me every time
5. Configure this drive for backup (File History).

Manage AutoPlay settings for Memory Card

For Memory Cards, the options available are:

1. Import photos and videos
2. Open device to view files
3. Sync digital media to this device
4. Take no action
5. Ask me every time
6. Play video files using alternate software
7. Play using Windows Media Player
8. Open folder to view files.

Set your options and exit.

Manage AutoPlay settings for Phones

For Phones, the options available are:

1. Import photos and videos
2. Play in WMP
3. Play in alternate media player
4. Take no action
5. Open folder to view files
6. Ask me every time.

Set your options and exit.

Configure AutoPlay defaults via Control Panel

There is another way, and that is via the Control Panel. Open Control Panel > AutoPlay.

Here you will be able to configure your AutoPlay settings for each media;

1. Removable drive
2. Memory Card
3. DVDs
4. Blu-ray discs
5. CDs
6. Software
7. Devices.

Set your options and exit.

If you wish, you can prevent AutoPlay from remembering User Choice in Windows.