Guide 01

Install OpenWithGuard on Windows.

Download the current ZIP, extract it, run the NSIS setup program, and launch the app.

Step 1

Download for Windows

Open the official download page and save the current 64-bit English ZIP package to your PC.

Download for Windows
Step 2

Extract all, then run setup.exe

Choose Extract all for the downloaded ZIP, then open the extracted NSIS setup.exe. When Windows requests administrator approval, confirm the prompt so OpenWithGuard can install the protection components required by Windows processes.

Before you continue

Close an older installer if it is still open. Windows 10 or Windows 11 and administrator approval are required.

Step 3

Launch OpenWithGuard

Finish setup, then open OpenWithGuard from the installer, Start menu, or desktop shortcut. The sidebar gives you access to Rules, Add Protection Item, and Browser Protection.

Step 4

Create your first protection item

Open the association protection page, choose a quick category or enter one extension such as .abc, then click an application. The choice takes effect immediately.

Open the file association guide →

Next guide

Protect a category or one file extension.

File association guide