After uninstalling WPS Office, many users encounter a peculiar issue where the office file icons on their computer turn into a whiteboard. This unexpected change can be quite confusing and might hinder the user experience. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind this problem and provide solutions to restore the original office file icons.
Understanding the Whiteboard Icon
The whiteboard icon typically represents a document that is either in the process of being edited or is a placeholder for a document that has been deleted or moved. When the office file icons on your computer transform into whiteboards, it suggests that there is an inconsistency in the file association settings or a leftover from the WPS Office installation.
Reasons for the Whiteboard Icon Appearance
There are several reasons why the office file icons might turn into whiteboards after uninstalling WPS Office:
1. Incomplete Uninstallation: If the WPS Office was not completely uninstalled, some residual files or settings might be causing the issue.
2. File Association Settings: The file association settings might have been altered during the uninstallation process, leading to the incorrect icon assignment.
3. System Cache: The system cache might be displaying outdated information, causing the whiteboard icons to persist even after the uninstallation.
Diagnosing the Problem
To diagnose the issue, follow these steps:
1. Check for Residual Files: Use a file cleaner or a system utility to scan for any leftover files from WPS Office.
2. Recheck File Association Settings: Open the File Explorer and navigate to 'File Types' to ensure that the office file types are still associated with the correct programs.
3. Clear System Cache: Clear the system cache by running the 'Disk Cleanup' tool or using the 'System File Checker' to repair any corrupted system files.
Solutions to Restore Office File Icons
Here are the steps to restore the office file icons to their original state:
1. Reinstall WPS Office: Temporarily reinstall WPS Office to reset the file association settings. After the installation, uninstall it again to remove any residual files.
2. Manually Change File Associations: Go to 'File Types' in the File Explorer and manually change the file associations for office files to the correct program.
3. Use a Third-Party Utility: Utilize a third-party file association utility to reset the associations for office files to the default programs.
Preventing Future Issues
To prevent similar issues from occurring in the future, consider the following tips:
1. Use a Reputable Uninstaller: Use a reputable uninstaller tool to ensure that all files and settings related to WPS Office are completely removed.
2. Regularly Clean System Cache: Regularly clean the system cache to prevent outdated information from affecting the icon display.
3. Backup Important Files: Before uninstalling any software, make sure to backup important files to avoid data loss.
Conclusion
The issue of office file icons turning into whiteboards after uninstalling WPS Office can be frustrating, but it is usually resolved with a few straightforward steps. By understanding the reasons behind the problem and following the outlined solutions, users can restore their office file icons and prevent future occurrences. Always ensure a thorough uninstallation process and maintain a clean system to avoid such issues.
