lost file association

[Guest]

A few days ago I upgraded my system. Then a clean install of XP Pro + sp2.
Today (foolishly) I allowed xp to download & install updates (78 of them)
My problem is now I get. "This file does not have a program
associated with it for performing this action. Creatre an association in the
Folder Options control panel". when I try to acces "control panel" or
"system tools"
plus I had also "lost" my modem. I don't know which update caused this so I
did a systems restore, But the only recovery is my modem. I haven't checked
to see what else isn't working yet.

my question is how do I fix the problems please?
I don't really wnat to reinstall, I can't be bothered going through the
reactivation crap again.

thanks.

 

[Trevor]

A few days ago I upgraded my system. Then a clean install of XP Pro + sp2.
Today (foolishly) I allowed xp to download & install updates (78 of them)
My problem is now I get. "This file does not have a program
associated with it for performing this action. Creatre an association in the
Folder Options control panel". when I try to acces "control panel" or
"system tools"
plus I had also "lost" my modem. I don't know which update caused this so I
did a systems restore, But the only recovery is my modem. I haven't checked
to see what else isn't working yet.

my question is how do I fix the problems please?
I don't really wnat to reinstall, I can't be bothered going through the
reactivation crap again.

thanks.

If your saying that the modem is now working again and only the file
association to one specific file isn't working you have two choices.
If the application to which you want to associate the file is still in
tact, just use explore and find that file. Then right click on it and
choose "Open With", Click "Choose Program". If the application does
not appear in the programs list, use the browse button to find the
application. Make sure you check "Always use the selected program..."
If this doesn't work then re-install the application.

Good Luck,

Trev

 

[Guest]

Thanks Trev.

My modem is now "being seen" and working. but the error message "This file
does not have a program associated with it ...". is displayed when I try to
open start > control panel or start > programs > Accessories > system tools.
I can open control panel if I drill down through windows explorer but cant
create a shortcut/link. bugger!

thanks.

 

[Guest]

Spoke with the support staff at microsoft.
Their response "don't know what caused it or how to fix it, Must have been
one or more of the updates that caused the fault". Their commendation: Full
Reinstall!