Cannot run .exe files

[wilbell47]

My Sony Vaio for some reason wont run any .exe files or any of the existing programs on the computer with the exception of Mozilla Firefox, Adobe Viewer and Adobe Pictures.

Everytime I try and install a new program with a .exe file it instead tries to 'view' the .exe file using one of the above programs.  This is very frustrating as it means you cant run any programs on the computer apart from those three!

Any help or thoughts would be much appreciated!

Thanks,

Will   

[Blencogo]

Hi Will,

It would have been helpful if you told us your Vaio model and Operating system.

This could be a virus but try restoring the default file associations first.  If you are using Windows 7, go here, download and run the Microsoft fix .reg file.  Follow the instructions carefully: -

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/19449-default-file-type-associations-restore.html

[wilbell47]

Thanks Blencogo - my Vaio is a PCG 5S1M and it is running Windows Vista Home with the SP2 upgrade.  Sorry I should have included.  Any ideas?

Thanks,

Will:smileyhappy:

[Blencogo · Accepted solution]

Hi Will,

Here is the link to the instructions on how to  reset the default file associations for Windows Vista.

http://www.vistax64.com/tutorials/233243-default-file-type-associations-restore.html

Follow the instructions and your problem should be fixed.

Good Luck