There comes a time when you find yourself facing trouble with a given file extension after downloading a software. The file is an executable file but you are not able to do anything with it. The reason may be a malware attack that will not allow you to even get rid of it. Another trouble would be not being able to run it. In this case if only you know how to fix the issue, you will be easily able to take care of it.
Given here are some useful tips that will help you fix issues with executable files:
When you try executing a file or say run it then a dialog box will appear saying:
“Windows can’t open this file”
File: [name.exe]
This is the trouble that often shows up when your system is not able to recognize the file and prompts you to open the .exe file using another operation. This clearly indicates that the file is corrupted and you will not be able to run any programs until it is duly executed.
The most important thing is that .exe issues need to be fixed as then only you will be able to use the registry editor and other such tools that can be utilized for fixing broken extensions if you have any.
Command Prompt
The most essential and the initial step that you need to take for fixing is that of using the Command Prompt. This comes handy for fixing errors related to .exe files. It would not be able to launch it due to the error as it requires entering cmd.exe in Run. For all this your efforts would be thwarted and you will require looking for an alternate method.
This would require using the following tricks:
• Use the usual trick that requires you to simultaneously press the “Ctrl+Shift+Esc” that will help launch the Task Manager
• When you see the Task Manager appear then go to Process tab-> Show Processes if not this then you might already have admin rights, this works for Vista, Windows 7, and Windows 8
• Alternatively, if you are running system on XP then you might get an Access Denied command. At this point you need to go to File-> New Task-> Run, hold down Ctrl key + clicking New Task this should reveal the Command Prompt
Using a Software
After taking the above mentioned steps if you are not able to get rid of the trouble then you can use any software like FixExec that helps in fixing your .exe file error. This program is compatible with Windows 8 as well as Windows XP. All you need to do is download, install, and run this tool and it takes care of the rest. It will not only detect the file causing trouble but also help fix it.
Things to remember
You need to remember that when you use the “Ctrl+Shift+Esc” this launches the Task Manager that comes handy for killing any rogue program. It helps in killing a program that creates troubles. You can even launch a new program using the New Task option that will help you in executing an .exe file. Remember that Task Manager is the best defense against a rogue antivirus program and it often helps in killing suspicious processes.