Exe files not opening/working

I do not have .exe when I scroll down to default apps at all, what do I do?

When I create a new profile, .exe files open there but not on my main one..

SFC shows that everything is okay

No malware found when running a deep scan.

.bat files also do not open.

Also .exe and .bat files do not give me an option of: "open with" when I right click, all other apps do..

Hello, SolLuxNP

Welcome to the Microsoft community.

When .exe files are not opening or working properly on your Windows laptop, it usually indicates an issue with Windows itself or with the specific application settings. Here are several steps you can take to diagnose and potentially resolve this problem:

1. Check for Malware

Malware or viruses can sometimes cause .exe files not to run. Running a full system scan using your antivirus software can help identify and remove any malicious software that might be causing the issue.

2. Use the Registry Editor

Incorrect settings in the Windows Registry might prevent .exe files from opening. You can try fixing it by modifying the registry:

• Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
• Navigate to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT.exe in the registry tree.
• In the right pane, double-click on (Default) and set its value to exefile.
• Navigate to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\exefile\shell\open\command.
• Double-click on (Default) in the right pane and set its value to "%1" %*.
• Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer.

Disclaimer: Generally, modifying registry subkeys or work group is intended for advanced users, administrators, and IT Professionals. It can help fix some problems, however, serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly. Therefore, make sure that you follow these steps carefully. For further protection, back up the registry before you modify it. Then, you can restore the registry if a problem occurs. For more information about how to back up and restore the registry, click How to back up and restore the registry in Windows - Microsoft Support to view the article. 

3. Run System File Checker

Corrupted or missing system files can also cause .exe files not to execute. Running the System File Checker (SFC) can repair these files:

• Open Command Prompt as administrator by right-clicking on the Start button, selecting Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
• Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
• Wait for the process to complete and then restart your computer.

4. Change Your Default Program Settings

Sometimes, .exe files might be associated with the wrong application, preventing them from opening correctly. You can reset the default program settings for .exe files by:

• Going to Settings > Apps > Default Apps.
• Scroll down and click on the Choose default apps by file type link.
• Locate .exe in the list and set its default app to the correct application (usually, this should be Windows to handle .exe files).

5. Create a New User Account

If the problem is specific to your user profile, creating a new user account might resolve the issue. You can do this through Settings > Accounts > Family & other users > Add someone else to this PC.

6. Perform a Clean Boot

Software conflicts can also prevent .exe files from opening. Performing a clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, which can help identify if background applications are the cause:

How to perform a clean boot in Windows - Microsoft Support

Disclaimer: A “clean boot” starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. It helps to determine whether a background service is interfering with your game or program and to isolate the cause of a problem.    These steps of "clean boot" might look complicated at first glance. However, to avoid any trouble for you, please follow them in order and step-by step so that it will help you get back on track.

Best wishes

Angie - MSFT |Microsoft Community Support Specialist

I have the same issue

i have the same issue