Windows Vista File does not have program associated with it

I recently obtained a 32-bit Vista computer with service pack 1 on it. Someone gave me 32-bit SP2 (Windows6.0-KB948465-X86.exe). It installed without problem but now I get a file association error in different places. For example, it pops up if a I right-click on Computer and then click Properties. Also if I click on Control.exe in System32 and some Control Panel functions. These errors did not occur before the upgrade.

The error reads: This file does not have a program associated with it for performing this action. Create an association in the Set Associations control panel.

I know what file associations are and this error makes no sense in the context it is occurring. For example, when clicking on Properties in the Computer tab. I also get it when clicking on Explore under a folder. Can anyone tell me more about this? Thanks for any help.

 

Most probably a malware. What AV solution are you running & did you check the authenticity of the file ?

 

Thanks for your response. As this computer was given to me, I have mainly only been using it for video processing. It's not networked or connected to the Internet so I haven't been too worried about infections. All that's on it is Windows Defender and that didn't flag anything, but I'm not sure how that would work during a system upgrade.

I didn't check the file. It came from someone I trusted. Maybe a mistake in retrospect.

 

So you don't have an anti virus & no patches.

Windows Defender definitions would be old & it won't be able to detect anything.

Read this post, then post the requested log(s) in the Malware and Virus Removal forum.

 

Ok, I read the Malware and Virus Removal forum post and followed all the instructions. I downloaded the four files and ran the programs as instructed in the order given. The result from all of them is that I do not have any infections. No malware found at all. However, I still have the problem that started this thread.

I'm not sure what to do now. I am happy to post the logfiles, but should I still do so since they say I don't have any problem? And if there is no malware causing this, what do I do next to try to fix it? The problem didn't exit before I ran the upgrade and I'm thinking about rolling it back. However, I notice that I can no longer remove installed programs via Control Panel. That is one of the functions that now produces the file association error.

Still hoping someone can help me with this.

 

You have to post those logs in the Malware and Virus Removal section under a new thread describing your problem so that an expert can have a look at them.

 

I have just posted everything in the Virus and Malware removal section as per your advice.

 

Great. Now wait for somebody to look at those logs & advise you further.

 

Noticed you were or are about to be sent back into vista forum as Broni could see nor find a problem with your os. This Google hit list for file associations may come in handy.

vista file association problem