WinXP SP3 Will Not Run Downloaded .exe Files

rfurnace · May 25, 2010

I am running an OEM version of Win XP SP3. A few weeks ago, my wife and my daughter both started complaining that the computer was running slow and wouldn't install programs. I assumed some type of malware was involved, so I came here and specifically followed the directions under the Malware Removal forum to remove any malware from my system. Unfortunately, I could not install most of the programs (SAS, MBAM, etc.). With each attempt, I received a message stating that the file was corrupt.

With that said, I can download an executible on a different machine, save it to a thumb drive, and execute/install it on my computer. I have tried running "sfc /scannow" and I have Uninstalled/reinstalled IE7. But, I still receive "File Corrupt" message each time I attempt to run any kind of "install" program that was downloaded. However, I CAN run existing .exe programs like MS Word, IE7, CD Burner XP, etc. I am only experiencing the problem when attempting to load/install NEW programs (.exe) that were downloaded (like SAS, MBAM, Root Repeal, etc from this site).

Thoughts? Advice? I would prefer to not format my C:\ drive.

:confused

DavidGP · May 25, 2010

Hi

Can you run or install them in Safe Mode (F8 at boot)? if you can then run through the Malware Guide again but this time create a thread in the malware forum and attach the requested logs as this does eeek of malware.

Could be a corrupted file association and this "could" help but I would try safe mode first, but also backup all the important files, docs, pics on that PC as never know if you "may" have to re-install, last resort but....

rfurnace · May 25, 2010

I started in the Malware forum. They had me attempt to install while in Safe Mode, but that didn't work either. I encountered the same "File Corrupt" type message. I just think it's strange that I can run a .exe installer from a flash/thumb drive but not when I download it directly to my hard drive. Would a corrupted file association still allow me to run a .exe from a flash drive?

TimW · May 25, 2010

Halo gave you a link for fixing exe file associations, but you could also try THIS.

rfurnace · May 25, 2010

I appreciate the tips from both of you. I tried Halo's steps first. EXE was missing from the file association list, so I associated it with "Application". I rebooted my PC, downloaded a fresh copy of SuperAntiSpyware.exe and attempted to execute the installation. I received another message stating that the files are corrupt.

Then, I tried TimW's steps. I downloaded the zip file, ran regedit, and merged the update into the registry. Again, I rebooted my PC, downloaded a fresh copy of SuperAntiSpyware.exe and attempted to execute the installation. I received another message stating that the files are corrupt.

Any last bits of advice before I am forced to format my hard drive?

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WinXP SP3 Will Not Run Downloaded .exe Files

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