Not a valid Win32 application

Question

When I try to open certain word files, I get this error " C:(path) is not a valid WIN32 application"

I believe this is because it is opening as a Word 2010 component instead of opening it as Word 2010. I am not sure why it is doing this. I can open the files if I right click and say open with "Word 2010". In this same selection, there is Word 2010 component. I am not sure, but a part of me believes that this might be caused because I first installed word 2010 viewer, then installed Office 2010 Professional Plus. I believe I later uninstalled the viewer. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

It is a problem with file association for .doc and .docx registry enteries.

Click on Start > Default programs > Select Associate a file type or protocol...

Check for .doc and .docx file association if it opens using Microsoft Word.

If that does not resolve the problem you can open registry.

Run > regedit > Take a backup.

Navigate to Hkey Classes Root > .doc and .docx.

Delete them but you might need to ask a friend to send you the registry enteries for this file extentions.

You can simply double click on the registry enteries that you get from your friend to merge them.

Lastly you can open C:<Root Directory> Program Files (64bit open program files x86) >

Microsoft Office > Office 14 > Check compatibility for Winword.exe. You may also delete it and add it once again.

Answer 2

First thing you need to try is Do a right click any word documents and select properties.

Check if it opens using Microsoft Word. If it is opening using any other application click on change.

Answer 3

I did this in the past to no avail. Tried it again, and still have the exact same problems.

Answer 4

I did this in the past to no avail. Tried it again, and still have the exact same problems.

Answer 5

See the article "How to re-register Word when problems crop up opening  files” at:

http://www.word.mvps.org/FAQs/AppErrors/ReRegisterWord.htm

-- Hope this helps.

Doug Robbins - Word MVP,

dkr[atsymbol]mvps[dot]org

Posted via the Community Bridge

"Brian721" wrote in message news:*** Email address is removed for privacy ***...

When I try to open certain word files, I get this error " C:(path) is not a valid WIN32 application"

I believe this is because it is opening as a Word 2010 component instead of opening it as Word 2010. I am not sure why it is doing this. I can open the files if I right click and say open with "Word 2010". In this same selection, there is Word 2010 component. I am not sure, but a part of me believes that this might be caused because I first installed word 2010 viewer, then installed Office 2010 Professional Plus. I believe I later uninstalled the viewer. Any suggestions?

---

Doug Robbins - Word MVP dkr[atsymbol]mvps[dot]org