asked on

FIle association messed up for all exe files

I have a Windows XP Pro computer that suddenly cannot open any executable files like e-mail, internet, various programs on the computer. It comes up with the open with window asking what program is associated with the file. The only thing that has been done is I have been trying to resync a program on the computer with a database that resides on the file server. This apparently finished and was working then the next day this started. Any suggestions to fix this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

ASKER CERTIFIED SOLUTION

MrN1c3

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ClintSwiney

Right click on each file in question, click Open With, Select the appropriate application, if it's not on the list browse for it. Before you click OK make sure the "Always use this program to open this kind of file" is ticked.

TrustWise

If clintswiney's recommendations doesn't work download malwarebytes.
http://download.cnet.com/Malwarebytes-Anti-Malware/3000-8022_4-10804572.html

huskerdrew

ASKER

Thanks for all suggestions, I will be working on this machine this afternoon and will post results when done, Thanks again.

huskerdrew

ASKER

Worked like a charm, thanks. Just downloaded the exe file and ran it.

anhksbreath

I had the same issue. My file associations messed up for .exe with my recent infection of fake antivirus software. After running Malwarebytes to remove 5 instances of the bug, I could no longer open any executables. MrN1c3's solution fixed it right up! Saved me hours of time! Thanks :)