Microsoft lets computer vendors replace Internet Explorer, Media Player, Outlook Express, and Windows Messenger with different programs from other companies. Your new computer may come with the Firefox Web browser, for example, instead of Microsoft’s Internet Explorer. Some PCs may come with both browsers installed.

When more than one program can handle a task -- opening a Web link, for example -- Vista needs to know which program it should summon. That’s where Vista’s program defaults area comes in. To choose your default programs, choose Control Panel from the Start button, choose Programs, select Default Programs, and choose Set Your Default Programs.

The Set Your Default Programs window lists programs along the right edge. Click the program you use the most and then choose Set This Program As Default. Repeat for any other listed programs that you prefer over Vista’s bundled programs and then click OK.