asked on XP computer refuses to execute downloaded .exe files.
I have a Windows XP desktop computer in my back office that runs certain administrative tasks on my office system. It has been functioning more or less normally until recently, when I had to download a software update for the postage printer. I downloaded the exe file to my desktop, but when I double-clicked on it, it refused to execute. I moved the software to another computer, and was able to update and run it.
But the problem persists with the backroom machine. Today I had a problem with a vendor-supplied module which is married to that machine by a certificate, so impossible to move to another computer. I called the vendor's help desk, and they asked me to download and run a Webex screen sharing program. Again, I downloaded the file, but it would not execute. If I right-click on the file name, no drop-down menu appears. It's as if the computer has been set not to run exe files.
Can anybody suggest a solution to this problem? Could it be just a setting that needs changing?
But the problem persists with the backroom machine. Today I had a problem with a vendor-supplied module which is married to that machine by a certificate, so impossible to move to another computer. I called the vendor's help desk, and they asked me to download and run a Webex screen sharing program. Again, I downloaded the file, but it would not execute. If I right-click on the file name, no drop-down menu appears. It's as if the computer has been set not to run exe files.
Can anybody suggest a solution to this problem? Could it be just a setting that needs changing?
Windows XP
Last Comment
BillDL
ASKER
When I right-click the file, nothing appears. Same when I right-click Computer on the start menu!
XP is now so firmly out of support that it has become a major security risk. Check for viruses and Malware.
Also try using a new, test Windows User Profile (Account) to download. The main user profile could be corrupted.
Also try using a new, test Windows User Profile (Account) to download. The main user profile could be corrupted.
Well, when you need XP, then don't run it with any connection to the internet. It's too dangerous.
Test the mouse on another computer and see if the right click works there.
Also test a mouse that is known to work correctly on this computer. At this stage the problem may only be the mouse or right click not working.
Also test a mouse that is known to work correctly on this computer. At this stage the problem may only be the mouse or right click not working.
ASKER
I ran a Mcafee Virus Scan, which found nothing.
I also downloaded a free copy of Malwarebytes and was able to install it. Oddly, when I double-clicked on that exe file, it executed.
Anyhow, Mcafee turned up nothing at all, Malwarebytes detected no malware, but identified 377 PUPs (potentially unwanted programs) after a lengthy scan. I deleted them and restarted.
The problem about running the ece download remains, whether I right-click or double-click the filename or the icon.
Mysterious.
I also downloaded a free copy of Malwarebytes and was able to install it. Oddly, when I double-clicked on that exe file, it executed.
Anyhow, Mcafee turned up nothing at all, Malwarebytes detected no malware, but identified 377 PUPs (potentially unwanted programs) after a lengthy scan. I deleted them and restarted.
The problem about running the ece download remains, whether I right-click or double-click the filename or the icon.
Mysterious.
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If you've got PUPs then run AdwCleaner as well http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/download/adwcleaner/
And test your mouse on another machine and a new mouse on this machine.
And test your mouse on another machine and a new mouse on this machine.
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ASKER
Thank you all for these suggestions.
I have personal business to attend to for the next couple days, and then I will have another go at this.
C.
I have personal business to attend to for the next couple days, and then I will have another go at this.
C.
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BillDL for resetting exe and MSI
Dr Klahn for context menu suggestions and running files from Task Manager
John Hurst for checking for malware (Malware was found)
nobus for sfc and Repair Install
Points awarded according to what I felt were the most valuable suggestions in solving this problem.
Note problem may not have been solved (questioner not responded) but these methods are good troubleshooting methods for this type of problem.
Dr Klahn for context menu suggestions and running files from Task Manager
John Hurst for checking for malware (Malware was found)
nobus for sfc and Repair Install
Points awarded according to what I felt were the most valuable suggestions in solving this problem.
Note problem may not have been solved (questioner not responded) but these methods are good troubleshooting methods for this type of problem.
Cheers dbrunton
Does it say Blocked? If so click on unblock and you should be good to go.