Ubuntu – Changing default applications doesn’t work in system settings or on file types

default-programsmime-type

Despite several attempts at a solution, I still can't change the default applications in Ubuntu 11.10. If I change them in system settings they revert back as soon as I close the dialogue. Next time I open the settings, default applications have reverted back to the standards. If I right click a file and try to choose a default application there I get an error message saying "can't create user application configuration folder" etc etc.

I am logged in as the only user created, so I should have rights to change these settings, shouldn't I?

Best Answer

If the fault message went on to say Not a directory then simply browse to ~/.local/share and remove, rename or move the file named applications which shouldn't be there and is preventing the creation of an applications directory.

Open a terminal to check is there is a applications file, type on a terminal

nautilus ~/.local/share

or press Ctrl+h with nautilus open and navigate to ~/.local/share.

If there is a file called applications there, rename it, or delete it (if find renaming it more secure, just in case).

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