Problems with "File Association" in Windows 7 64-bit

Anonymous
2009-11-04T02:38:45+00:00

Although I am able to go through the "regular" process to associate a program with an extension it doesn't work.  After going through the browse process and selecting the program it brings me back to the "open with" window.  The program I've selected does not appear in the "open with" window and it appears that it is simply ignoring me.

I've also tried the "Default Programs" route but wind up at the same "open with" window that still ignores me.

Suggestions?

[EDIT]

  1. I've realized that this is probably not the proper forum for this question so feel free to ignore!
  2. I've also realized that this may be an issue with associating extensions with non-64-bit programs and appears to be a non-issue if trying to associate with a 64-bit program... go figure.
Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Files, folders, and storage

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Anonymous
2009-11-22T16:57:44+00:00

After playing around a lil I think I've figured it out.. [for me at least..]

The program that you're pointing to isn't registered correctly.

In regedit: Navigate to Computer\HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Applicationsand find your .exe name.

Navigate under its name to shell>open>command. In the Default change its location to the actual location of the executable, hit okay and then try and reassociate the file type as you normally would.

Let me know if that doesn't seem to work.

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  1. Anonymous
    2011-05-18T19:27:45+00:00

    Here is my problem http://i56.tinypic.com/254xyzq.png  Can anyone help?

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  2. Anonymous
    2011-05-04T22:51:07+00:00

    Suresh,

    You just listed the SAME EXACT STEPS that the author said didn't work and I have also found DON'T WORK with non 64 bit programs.

    Are you even reading what was written?

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  3. Anonymous
    2011-04-26T09:30:35+00:00

    I think you are on the right track however it does not work because under outlook.exe and explorer.exe there is no subfolder shell>open>command

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  4. Anonymous
    2011-04-13T15:17:50+00:00

    Here is the full list of all the "File association" steps that I've seen proved useful before. There is no need to go beyond the step that solves the problem but all the "your computer" & Microsoft checks are fine to do in any case - they would not do any harm even if there was no fault.

    On your computer

    Control panel, Default programs, both Set your default programs and Associate a file type or protocol with a program

    [IE check only] Internet explorer, Tools, Internet options, Programs - set Make default

    Microsoft links [read the descriptions on the linked pages first]

    Fix broken desktop shortcuts and common system maintenance tasks

    Fixit When you run an .exe file on a Windows Vista-based or Windows 7-based computer, the file may start a different program

    Diagnose and repair Windows File and Folder Problems automatically

    Back to ones on your computer

    Run both the Maintenance & Performance troubleshooters at Control panel, Troubleshooting.

    Run the System File Checker *How to use the System File Checker tool to troubleshoot missing or corrupted system files on Windows Vista or on Windows 7* There is additional guidance on it in *sfc.exe /scannow*

    and then, if necessary,

    3rd party links [read the descriptions on the linked page first to make sure it matches your symptoms - only go this far if you have to]

    Default File Type Associations - Restore - Windows 7 Forums

    http://www.slipstick.com/problems/link_restrict.htm

    Cannot open Folders or Drives "This file does not have a program associated..."

    File Association Fixes for Windows 7

    Best of luck.

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