can't open .exe files windows 10

Hi,

Thank you for posting your query in Microsoft Community.

I understand your concern regarding the issue that you are facing.

1. What happens when you try to open the file?
2. Are you getting any error message?
3. Did you make any changes prior to this issue?
4. Have you installed Microsoft Office in the system?

Reply with necessary information and I’ll be happy to help you further

Hi

 get a message saying Can't open this type of file, had a computer crash a few days ago, but I have always had this problem with some .exe files, before I upgraded to windows 10, I had windows 8.1 and had the same problem

haven't got Microsoft office at the moment

Derek

Hi Derek,

Thank you for keeping us updated on this issue.

• Are you facing the same issue with a specified .exe file or all types of .exe files?
• Is this the same file you used to face issue with in Windows 8.1?

If you are facing the same issue with all files, please follow the steps below and check:

1. Press Windows key+ R to open Run command.
2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
3. Search for Windows Installer and if it is stopped, right click on it and click on Start.

Please post us with the results and information to help you better.

Thank you.

• Open Command Prompt (run as admin) type  cd\windows
• Press "Windows key + R" on your keyboard type regedit
• locate HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT.exe in the right side pane change the value of Default key to exefile
• On the registry editor go to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\exefile\shell\open\command
• in the right side pane change the value of Default key to "%1" %*
• then restart your computer

it gives me the option to open files with other applicaions; i.e. word, note pad, IE,

I haven't installed office and haven't made any changes that I know of