How to Reset AutoPlay Settings to Default in Windows 10 Using AutoPlay to manage files from external drives or devices can be convenient, but it also comes with risks. In controlled or managed environments, it's important to think carefully before enabling it. If you'd prefer to be on the safe side, here’s how to reset AutoPlay settings in Windows 10. Back to default. Before we begin, be sure to subscribe to NinjaOne's IT Video Hub and our YouTube channel for more tech content like this. How to reset AutoPlay settings to the default AutoPlay is usually turned off by default on Windows 10. If the settings have been changed, you can easily restore them through the Control Panel. Here's how: Using Control Panel This is the recommended method to try: Go to the Control Panel. Change “View by” to Large or Small icons. Click on AutoPlay. Scroll down and click Reset all defaults. Click Save to finish. Customize AutoPlay after reset After resetting autoplay, you can choose how it handles different types of media like USB drives, memory cards, and CDs. For each one, use the dropdown menu to pick an option: Take action. Open folder to view files. Ask me every time. Play media with the default player. Setting a default for each type gives you more control, even if you keep AutoPlay turned on. Troubleshooting AutoPlay media settings Here are some commonly encountered troubleshooting issues and how you can fix them. AutoPlay still doesn’t work. If AutoPlay still isn’t working after setting defaults, make sure the Use AutoPlay for all media and devices option at the top of the settings page is turned on. You should also check if Shell Hardware Detection is running: Type services.msc in the search bar and press Enter. Find Shell Hardware Detection in the list. Make sure its Status is Running and Startup Type is set to Automatic. If not, start the service and change the Startup Type. This service is required for AutoPlay to work properly. AutoPlay window doesn’t pop up If the AutoPlay pop-up doesn’t appear when you plug in a device, notifications might be turned off. To fix this, go to Settings > System > Notifications & actions and make sure notifications are enabled. AutoPlay is helpful in secure environments with strong controls over devices and software. But in systems with limited oversight, it can pose a security risk. For more information, check out our official blog post on how to reset AutoPlay settings linked in the description below.