why is microsoft office client virtualization handler my default word processor?

Question

I have Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007 installed on my computer (Windows 7) but just recently, every time I open a .doc or .docx file, it opens in the client virtualization handler, which I decidedly do not like.  But I am afraid if I change the defaults, I might mess something up.  Any info will be appreciated.

Answer 1

If you installed Office 2010 (maybe a trial) using Click to Run technology, there are no Office files on the C drive, but on a virtual Q drive. "Microsoft Office Client Virtualization Handler" will appear in the list of programs. The Office files are associated with that

See http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/word-help/click-to-run-switch-to-using-an-msi-based-office-edition-HA101850538.aspx