How to FIX the error : EXE files not running on windows

When all .exe files won’t run in Windows, it’s often due to malware, corrupted registry settings for file associations, or issues with system files; try scanning for viruses, resetting .exe file associations in Settings or Command Prompt, running SFC/DISM scans, or checking the Windows Installer service. 

Quick Fixes

1. Scan for Malware: Run a full scan with Windows Defender or a trusted third-party antivirus to rule out malicious software.
2. Check Default Apps: Go to Settings > Apps > Default apps, find “.exe” and ensure it’s set to “Windows” or reset all default apps.
3. Unblock Files: Right-click a problematic .exe, select Properties, and check the General tab for an “Unblock” checkbox. 

Command Prompt Fixes (Run as Admin) 

• Reset .exe association: Type assoc .exe=exefile and press Enter.
• Check exefile association: Type ftype exefile="%1" %* and press Enter.
• Run System File Checker: Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
• Run DISM: Type DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth and press Enter. 

Registry Fix (Advanced) 

• Open Registry Editor (type regedit in Run).
• Navigate to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.exe, double-click (Default) and set its value to exefile.
• Navigate to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\exefile\shell\open\command, double-click (Default) and set its value to "%1" %* (including quotes).
• Restart your computer after any registry changes.