Feb192010

How can I change or fix .lnk file associations on Windows 7?

Henry asks:

I’ve been using a computer for several years now, so I have absolutely no excuse for this mistake. The phone rang and I hit a ok before I checked and I’ve killed Windows 7.

I was trying to get a program to open and I used Open with; I changed the *.lnk to open with the application and forgot to uncheck the Always Open With option. Now I can’t use any of my shortcuts. I know I should have doen a backup as soon as I got my system, but it doesn’t seem to like any of the CD’s I’ve tried to use to backup. I can work on that later, for now I would just like to know if there is any fix for screwing up my *.lnk files?


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  • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

    No worries, that’s not a biggie and can be easily fixed in a couple of minutes. There are a couple of ways to do it, read both:

    Option 1:

    - Go to Start -> “Control Panel” -> Click on Porgrams
    - Click on “Default Programs”
    - Click on “Associate a file type or protocol with a program.” to open the “Set Associations” menu.
    - Scroll through the list of extensions to locate the .lnk file extension. The listing will show the description and the current default program associated with it.
    - Click on the extension (to select it) and then click on “Change Program.”
    - Select the program you would like to open *.lnk file types.
    - Click on OK.

    Option 2 (If Option1 fails):

    Simply download following file, unzip it, and run it. It will make necessary changes to the registry. Restart the computer and it should be fine.

    http://www.winhelponline.com/fileasso/lnkfix_vista.zip

    • Fredrik

      Thank you very much! Fixed everything :)

      • josh

        Please help! can you tell me which program you clicked on after you clicked change program?

        • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

          Josh,

          try the second solution. The registry fix will correct the issue automatically. LNK files are not opened by any program, so you can’t really solve it using the first solution.

          • Varun

            Thnx A lot tina…………………….

          • August

            Thank you so much. I managed to mess up really badly and what could’ve taken me hours and hours of work to fix it you helped me fix in a few seconds. I cannot express how glad I am.

          • Bob

            Thanks Tina – you saved me a lot of time & anxiety!

            Bob Emery

            What makes the .LNK file extensions appear?  Is it a virus or a fault in Windows 7?  How do I avoid it in the future?

          • P.PouYa

            Dear Bob, i know this should be related to Tina, but lnk is not a virus. however, it may annoy you very much, specially when it is applied on many programs suddenly. it is often occurred when you use the “Open With” choice or “Open With + arrow ” when choosing default programs to run an application when there are several softwares associated to it, like kinds of PDFs, or MediaPlayers. for one application, it is tolerable but if you remove some kernel files of windows in its roaming &/ recent folders (Kbytes in size, like some fundamental shortcuts), it shows its ugly face. ..

          • Towas

            Jacob

            hello
            my all programs cant run
            like this google chrome.lnk
            mozilla.lnk and other programs

          • P.PouYa

            ThanX, A LOT.  TanX ALL for the 2nd Solution. 

    • Kiran Bhatt66

      thanks ……………. it realy works…
      genius

      • Texasbreeeze

        Thanks, this did work and I have been to many sites even ms site and no help, but this did it thanks a bunch!

    • Tony Mielec

      Just had a similar problem. All my .ink turned into an .Lnk . . . turned them into an adobe program executable. .ink was not under the Cntl pnl portion, did your suggested download . . . voila . . . everything back to normal…. Thank you so much.

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        you’re welcome!

        • Bassemsoussia

          merci pour le l’information ça marcher 

        • Vasanth

          hi where r u from dude.

        • I was going nuts

          Your a true hero Aibek…… Why does windows or Microsoft have this info on there home page…. would have saved me 4 days of B.S

          • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

            glad to hear it worked for you)

      • Jacob

        help me what the procedures

    • Mauricio

      Great, this worked for me aswell
      Thanks a lot

      Regards
      Maurice
      The Netherlands

    • Khor758

      how about window 7? can i use the same steps as described above (include the link given) ?

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

        The question is about Windows 7. But it should work almost the same in Windows Vista, in case that’s what you meant. Let us know whether it worked for you. Thank you!

        • vdot

          ive tried it bt still no luck

        • Jinxy33

          THANKYOU! Worked perfectly with win7 but the link does say
          http://www.winhelponline.com/fileasso/lnkfix_vista.zip
          : so I can’t see why it wouldn’t work with vista? Again, thankyou so much? JINXY

          • EPals

            try fixing reg using Ccleaner

          • Missi

            OMG you saved me! I tried the one fro the beginning and it didn’t work and then I saw your’s. Thank you SOOOOOO much!

        • Levi Reed

          i have a simular problem but i was trying to change the application on a game because it wasnt doing anything and then every appliction on my computer changed to windows media player. nothing on the computer works now apart from firefox and programs that dont run off a aplication.
          please help everything is on this computer and ive tried the second solution once

          • http://twitter.com/Pilotclan9404 DJ Evans

            Where you able to fix this? i have this problem with a freind but it opne IE downlaod section instead 

        • Deb

          You just saved my ass! Tina, you’re the greatest! Thank you, thank you!
          Debi Davis
          Mind Your Own Business Radio

        • Proto06

          I’ve just used it for 7 but the icons don’t change back. any solutions?

        • I was going nuts

          Yes the link works with windows 7….. It mentions something about vista when you down load it… I think that is what scares window 7 user from going foreword….. But thanks for addressing the question…… This was very helpful It works people!!!!

      • Vicklalove

        yes u can

      • Eeeeenoch

        yes 

    • Shadit

      thanks a lot

    • Jaydeep Virani

      Thanks…….
      It helped me a lot…..

    • Prem Mannu

      thankx man it works

    • Paul

      Thank you very much ! It fixed everything on Windows 7 – x64

    • Zakipervez

      hi,
      i want to delete *.lnk File how can i delete? can you help me

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

        Zaki,

        are you sure you don’t want to fix the file association?

        Anyways, you are not likely to receive an answer to your question within this thread. If the answers given in this thread are not helpful, I recommend you to submit a new question. Please try to explain why you want to delete your *.Ink files or why you were not able to delete them like any other file.

    • Venutr

      Execellent! thanks for your great work.

    • http://www.pcperformancetools.com/runtimeerrors.htm Stephanie

      I have heard file associations are located in the registry so doing regedit can actually fix them.. Is it really an alternative? cause you know doing something in the registry might make or break it, and microsoft doesn’t recommend such. Certain free programs like http://www.pcperformancetools.com/file-extensions-repair.html says they can automatically fix the associations in the registry, so you don’t have to worry about doing something that may cause permanent damage to your system. If they can, wouldn’t that be more convenient than going through all those ssteps?

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        I haven’t tried the program you linked above so can’t give you any
        feedback on it. In regards to editing the registr manually I wouldn’t
        worry to much about it because in most cases the steps are pretty
        straightforward. You basically, navigate to specific node in the
        registry tree and change the default value. Plus it’s very easy to
        backup/restore the registry using File-> Import/Export options.

    • Allan_allan

      thanks dude :D DDDDDDDD

    • Cassion

      Wow, Thanks man! i was so shocked when i saw every shortcut turning into an adobe reader icon T_T

    • nidge

      absolute genius
      after 7 hrs of frustration trying to sort out my dad’s laptop option 2 sorted the problem with one click. GENIUS
      thanks so so much

    • Ravellino080

      Hey, the same thing happened to me. All files are converted to .lnk and the program that is running all my files is adobe. I have tried both options, but none of them worked. Got stuck and dont know what to do

      Can you please help me, if possible?

    • Bama Boy_43

      Used the download link for Windows 7 and it worked just like you said. Thank you so much. I really didn’t want to have to explain to my wife how I screwed up every program on our desktop.

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

        Glad to hear it worked for you!

    • nike

      amazing.. thanks for the info. it works

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        you’re welcome

    • Steph

      windows xp doesnt have the “default programs” option …. HELP! Plus i managed to change everything to open in Win32 and dont know how to change it back!

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        I don’t have access to Windows XP anymore so not really able to look
        into it for you. I suggest posting this as a new question on MakeUseOf
        Answers. I am sure someone will give you a fix for Windows XP.

    • johnboss

      thank you very much…..

    • Burgundymorgan

      I just had the same problem with “everything Lnk” and I downloaded your file and it fixed it. You are my absolute HERO! Thank you sooooooo much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        glad to hear it helped, you’re welcome.

    • Rick R.

      did option 1 above, and now every program shortcut on my screen (ie: internet explorer, open office etc. etc.) wants to open with microsoft office word. how can I change this back. to their original icons and have the programs open has they normally were?

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        did you try option 2?

    • Abir 18

      Hey Aibek,

      I followed your instructions but my folders still won’t open. When I click on the shortcut it opens a firefox window and does not work. Please help, I’m freaking out.

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        Hey Abir,

        As far as I understood, your folder shortcuts are now being opened by
        Firefox?

        If that’s the case please ask this as a new question on MakeUseOf
        Answers, http://www.makeuseof.com/answers/

        I am out of ideas at the moment but I am pretty sure someone will
        provide you with a working fix to this.

        Aibek

    • Diwaker260679

      thanks a lot .. it maintained everything….

      hope to have a more solutions in future aso!

      Good Work..
      Diwaker

    • Dwarakanath

      thanks a lot……….

    • Dennis

      used that download link and now everything is back to normal,,thanks a lot for that,even tech guys cudnt help me with this one,,thanks again

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        you’re welcome, glad it worked for you

    • Anne Dimla

      wow option2 really works.. i almost cry here thinking and searching for the solution. thank you very much!

    • Uttamslg24

      thnx dear…

    • King

      Execellent! Thanks a lot!:)

    • Guy

      Great. I had to go to the option 2 but it worked perfectly.
      Merci!!!!!!!

    • John

      Thanks a butch…

      JB
       

    • nena

       Genius!! Thank you so much!! have a pleasant day! =D

    • youngmoney

      Thank you so much, this really works. i am so happy, thanks again. it made my day

    • Michael_currie40

      Brilliant!  Personal Computers would be worthless without guys like yourself who take the time to help others.  Thanks man I’ve spent the last three hours trying to fix this and was about to throw my laptop across my living room.

    • Pmhough

      I followed your directions for option 1 but the problem is I don’t know what program to use to open .lnk’s.  The recommended programs list includes adobe acrobat, windows media center, itunes, bittorrent, and quicktime.  However, anyone of these choices and the problem remains just with a different program opening off all my shortcuts.  Please help, this is maddening!

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        Try option 2!

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

        As Aibek says, try option 2. The registry fix is safe to use and works for most people, check all the comments here!!!

        • Pmhough

          Aibek, Tina, you two seriously are saints.  Thank you very much, my computer is once again working properly.   Should I ever have trouble again, I will seek you out

          • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

            you’re welcome

          • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

            Feel free to submit your tech question anytime, we’ll be here to help! :)

    • Goofy0

      you’r the best made the kids very happy
      every thing does work again

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        :) glad to hear that

    • Deborah

      Thank You… Thank you… Thank you.  I have been working on this all day.  I can’t tell you how happy I was when my computer restarted and the icons were correct.  I can’t wait to tall my husband that you were able to fix it. 

    • kimmy…

      your option 2 works thank u so much!hugs and kisses..mwuah

    • Charudutt

       Thanx a ton Aibek :)   I owe you one !!

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        you’re welcome :)

    • ally

      Genius spent hours looking for fix now working again..Thankyou  

    • Boom25

      Hey aibek,
      I can’t find the .zip file, and I dont get option two
      May you please help?

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

        Downloading the .zip file works fine for me. And it definitely works. You should try again and apply the registry fix inside the .zip archive.

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        here is the link to the option 2 file,
        http://www.winhelponline.com/fileasso/lnkfix_vista.zip

    • silentsnake

      Wow, thx so much man, ive been havin that problem for days now., and i couldn’t find a proper solution… i suspect mine happened when ive installed that imgburn software under my windows 7 OS. even if its not vista, that regfile solved the probleme…youuupiiiiiiiie!

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        glad it helped :)

    • Jaynelyn Mangila

      Hello. I encountered the same situation. I used window7. On the last part, when I click the change program button, there’s a pop-up window appear stating choose the program you want to open the file. There are recommended programs below and other programs available. I’m confused what to choose for every time I select Internet explorer, all my desktop icons change their pictures to internet explorer. There is also a browse button on the pop up window. So just wanted to know how will I fixed this one and what would be the last step to complete the process and fixed my computer.

      Thank you and I’ll be waiting for your immediate response..

      Jaynelyn

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

        Jaynelyn,

        actually the first solution doesn’t work because there is no program that opens lnk files. You have to use the second option, i.e. the registry fix. Just download, unpack and run it. It will automatically fix the registry key that is broken on your computer. It’s safe, promised!

    • Rajupasa

      Hi, i dunno why it didn’t help me… Is there any other way out? Don’t wanna format my laptop… Thanks in advance…

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

        Rajupasa,

        did you try the second solution? It’s a registry fix and it works. It’s safe to use!

    • Mariakos1999

      yes but what program to open lnk files…firefox.lnk is for firefox.exe   safari.lnk is for safari.exe understand?

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        The *.lnk files are shortcuts and should be handled by Windows explorer
        regardless of what program the shortcut points to. That registry fix I
        referred to makes sure that *.lnk files are handled properly.

        Aibek

    • http://www.facebook.com/people/Ajay-Daniel/100001387448444 Ajay Daniel

      thanx …. 2 option is worked.

    • http://www.facebook.com/people/Ajay-Daniel/100001387448444 Ajay Daniel

      thanx …. 2 option is worked.

    • maharshi

      great…!!..it works man….it totally does….Thnx a lot….i appreciate your help….thnx..

    • Nhekairo Washington

      Option 2 worked for me like I NEVER EXPECTED…. my friend was already ruling my machine off and was opting for system restore… I thought my machine had been grilled by a virus ….but …alas YOU DID ME A BIG FAVOUR!!!!!! Thanks Thanks and Tnaks!!!

    • kmigellano
      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        thanks for the link

    • Yna

      thank you amazing! big thanks!

    • Srirams

      simply superb frnd… 

    • Sanjay Ralhan

      Thanks a lot. The desktop files are opening now after running the file

    • Jebaily

      HOLY SNAP AIBEK!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! :D :D:D this was my dads NEW laptop and if he found out about what happened I’d be DEAD right now!!! You sure saved my bacon!! Wait who says that anymore???? Hmm… Bacon…

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        :)

        • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

          Time for an award! :)

    • Ian Stafford

      Can you help I have a program called winrar and it automatically opens the zip file and has no option to run it.

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

        Ian,

        this sounds like a completely different question. WinRAR is actually supposed to open ZIP files. What do you think it should run? You might want to ask a new question via the respectiev button on MakeUseOf Answers.

    • Petina 2005

      Hello,
      I tried option1 and couldn’t do it. All desktop icons changed to  whatever program I pressed. My problem is I have done something that has changed all desktop icons to windows symbol and i can’t open my files/folders as they seem to be DOS mode.

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

        Petina,

        just try option 2. The registry fix has worked for dozens of people, as you can see in this thread!

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        what about option 2, did you try it?

    • Rakesh 1si08ee042

      Cool bro, good suggestion

    • Sachinsagar 1994

      Dude, if i found u now, i would really kiss u.. :-P .

      I ws joking, dnt take it seriously… bt seriously, thaks a lot.. Ur help was much appreciated… :-)

    • Heinrich_diez

      WOW you are sooo great… i thought my laptop has a virus but thank god i found the solution.. thank you soooo much!!!

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        you’re welcome

    • Abhayommandhana

      thanks a lot for ur assistance looking forward for the same cooperation abhay mandhana abhayommandhana@gmail:disqus .com

    • Deepak

      Hi Aibek,

      The second option works for me i am facing the similar problem in my window 7 .I will be thankful to you if you pls suggest me a gud spyware antivirus so that i can scan my full pc & kill the remaining virus. I am saying this bcoz i am analyzing that  my system is working slow than earlier.Waiting for ur reply

       Thanks a lot genuis. U r g8t

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        For anitivirus you may try any of the antivirus apps we recommend our Best Windows Software page, http://www.makeuseof.com/pages/best-windows-software

        Once you have scanned the system try running Soluto to idnetify what’s causing it to be slow http://www.soluto.com/ . We have reviewed Soluto here, http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/soluto-improve-windows-boot-time/

        For all possible ways to speedup your computer check out following threads on MakeUseOf Answers:

        How can I fix a slow Windows XP computer?http://www.makeuseof.com/answers/fix-slow-windows-xp-computer/How can I speed up my Windows XP system?http://www.makeuseof.com/answers/speed-windows-xp-system/Why is Windows Vista so slow?http://www.makeuseof.com/answers/windows-vista-running-slow/

    • Jack morse

      I am confused  about option 2 I went to the link helponline when it opened I did’nt what to do.our help would be greatly appreciated I’ve been going nuts for the last 2 days .  Thanks so much

    • Rajeshrj01

      but dude i have another problem ,my all files have .ink extension so if i select adobe reader as viewer than all files open in adobe even my IE ,plz suggest me ans. my mail id is rajeshrj01@gmail.com, plz ,i am waiting sir

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

        Rajeshrj,

        try option two, the registry fix! Download it directly clicking this link.

    • henry8899

      Aibek is great, the option2 worked incredibly!
      Thanks
      Henry Schneider

    • Kabir

      that was a life saver. have managed to restore the file associations using option 2.

      jut discovered this site and looks like i’ll be coming here more often.

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        looking forward to see you here in the future

    • Rahula

      Thanks Works  like a magical

    • Adrian

      thanks………….fixed everything.

    • Sdwahus

      Thanks, the download worked great but my shortcuts still have the word symbol on all the programs. Can you tell me how to change the shortcut pics?

    • Saikrishnafmab

      I did the same mistake but all thanks to you my pc is normal again:)))))))))))

    • Promita

      OH MY GOD!!! thank you so much for this…. saved my life… you did…  this friend of mine made the same mistake while trying to delete something… thank you… thank you so so so so much!!!

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        you’re welcome

    • vangie

      you’re the best ,thank you,
      Question: how can i install microsoft office on my pc online,because i dont have an installer.?is there a specific link you can give me.

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        Hey there,

        Glad the fix worked for you. In regards to your toher questions, please ask this as anew question on MakeUseOf Answers, http://www.makeuseof.com/answers/ I don’t know the answers myself.

        Aibek

    • Jamilichakradhari

      Same thing happened in my mobile,i thought it is a virus and i scanned.finally virus was there and removed.When i finally opened my mobile all the files were changed to .lnk files

    • Knoxzie

      Thank you so much

    • Kjanderton

      You have saved my day! – will be wary of ticked boxes again.  Phew!!

      Ken Anderton

    • Kid A

      OK, I assume everyone that says this works is referring to option 2, because option 1 is so much nonsense that it was hard for me to take you seriously. Select the program I would like to open *.lnk file types? As a way to fix a problem?? There is no possible selection you could reach through that method that solve anything. Did you even test the solution you offered yourself?

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

        Kid,

        you are right that option 1 doesn’t work for LNK files.

        It does, however, work if the file association of something other than a LNK file was changed to the wrong program, for example EXE pointing to PPT. Since the keywords may also direct people with other file association mishaps to this question, the answer is still relevant.

    • Night_d3ath

       thank you very much , option 2 works perfect , i tried so many things to repair the problem , i tough my girlfriend is going to kill me if she that .lnk everywhere, but now is fix it thanks to your advise. thanks a lot.

    • Ratsoauer

      I am a German. Used the file on 15th of Nov. 2011. Well done, i am happy

    • Daklu

      One of those Genius..man ur really smart..last time ..i reformat the whole system..is this virus or what?

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

        Daklu,

        I don’t think it’s a virus, it’s probably more like a user miss-clicking something.

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        Sorry, I don’t understand your question. Could you explain your question in detail.

    • Mikejnlv

      I lost all my shortcut icons over a month ago and had forgotten all about them, just browsing the net and came upon this page and (“Henry”) asking the same question i had for weeks. Tried option (1) must have been a dozen or so times-it;s not much use if i have no idea what program to pick. Then i hesitated and finally decided to download  option (2) and WA,, LA,,, it worked. Thanks MakeUseOf i can now finally live again,,,I GOT MY ICONS BACK.    (MikeJnlv)

    • james

      a MILLION THANKS, option 2 was perfect. 

      JAMES KANE

    • Baluga

      thanks man cool it works ;)

    • Lrandall6260

      Hi Aibek,

      Many thanks mate. The ZIP file worked a treat.

      Paul

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        glad to hear that)

    • Varun

      Awesome man it worked the 2nd opt was much simpler 

      Can u suggest me which anti virus is best if i want a free one………..

    • Shahge1

      Thanks big problem sloved

    • Cmanfx

      THANK YOU SO MUCH…..YOU HELPED OF GOING CRAZY….. I WAS SEARCHING FOR HOURS IN INTERNET TILL I FOUND YOUR POST

    • Imsamurai

      Click Start Menu, and then type regedit in the Start Search and press ENTER.Navigate to the following registry branch:
      HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerFileExts.lnk
      Click on the arrow to expand it and delete the sub-key named UserChoice.Exit from Registry Editor.
      Reboot

    • Ahnaf Adil

      damn you are good!!! i was really frustrated about this. Thankx man 

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        glad to hear it worked)

    • Anil Dhurwe00

      hey!It really worked

    • Joeri

      Hi all,
       

      I have a same problem….i need to remove unwanted program for .Dll
      file.

      I’ve successfully followed these steps: HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerFileExts[file
      extension]OpenWithList.

      Then I checked the
      Recommended Program List for .Dll file. But unwanted program was still
      there in list. So i thought changes might be reflected after reboot.
      But even after reboot it was showing the program in list.

      I’ve again confirmed that key is deleted or not…key was removed
      properly…do we need to follow some other steps in addition to
      aforementioned steps???

      I also tried Ccleaner but it doesnt help also.

      Any help in this regard will be greatly appreciated.

    • Marianneabreu

      Aibek,
      Just like magic… I have been trying to change the icons for hours, until I decided to google the problem… and I found your comment/solution.

      You are a genius! good luck to you!

      Best,

      Marianne Abreu
      Dec 30, 2011

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        you’re welcome Marianne )

    • Efowler87

      thank you so much, I so how messed up my .lnk files. I was so worried but thanks to your link everything is back to normal :) Thank YOU!

    • Denise

      Oh my gosh! my computer had been messed for 5 months and I couldn’t access any of my files or basically anything. Try option 2, worked perfectly. I cannot thank you enough! :D

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        glad to hear it worked)

    • zithendra

      Thank you the zip file is working :)

    • Chouhan21

      It’s really works..Thank you buddy.

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        you’re welcome)

    • Padmani2008

      thank you sooooo much…..

    • Blaze

      Yeh i tryed both steps it didnt work plz help !

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        hmmm, did you try Windows’ system restore option?

    • combatbarbie

      Thank you SOOOOO much. That saved me the biggest waste of time trip to Best Buy.

    • Alchemist669

      thanks to you sir, I had the same problem and it got solved

    • Crazy_buggs45

      thanx dude.. yae just saved me.. lol..

    • Jacob

      ma’am could you help me..
      desame problem to me
      my all icon change into logo of adobe then the name was change also chrome.lnk,mozilla.lnk, and my other file cant run..because this problem

      • Jacob

        on my loptop window 7

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

        Jacob,

        did you try the registry fix: http://www.winhelponline.com/fileasso/lnkfix_vista.zip

    • mohamad

       Thanks, It works fine. But In fact we have not option 1 as solution I think the only option is option 2.

    • AliDee

      THANK YOU! Option 1 didn’t work and I could not access the web on the affected computer so I opened that link on another computer and copied the file to a thumb drive.  I saved it to the desktop of the affected computer and fixed it from there.  Thank you!

      • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

        glad to hear it worked.

    • Catherinez

      i love you, you saved my computer

    • Dismember13

      thanks a lot aibek.
      u saved my pc!

  • Anonymous

    Many thanks, Aibek! I had the same problem and microsoft was useless. Your registry program fixed it immediately. You’re a genius!
    Joey

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      Glad it worked!

  • tammy

    I need help to fix the INK files on my deswktop. So far Tried a couple things but no lick can someone please help me with this/

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Tammy,

      please post a new question.

      Don’t forget to share all essential information regarding your issue, e.g. what is wrong with the INK files on your desktop, what may have caused the issue, what exactly did you try already, what is your operating system etc.

  • Dale Coates

    I have got windows xp, all my files on the pc seem to be lost :s if i click on anything on the desktop and try to open it, the ‘open with’ box pops up, this happens with all things aswel as on control pannel i.e ‘add or remove programmes, on windows start ect… how do i come about this?
    Dale

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Dale,

      please post this as a new question.

  • xgerstandtx

    Thanks for the help. Very easy to understand and execute. I need to pay more attention to what I’m check/unchecking. Thanks again.

  • Ron

    All my files changed to .Ink and could not be open. I was able to get yahoo and outlook to work but all the other applications will not open correctly. What might be causing this?

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      Hey Ron

      Can you please ask this as anew question. The question will get more
      exposure this way and you’re likely to receive the solution faster.

      Just go to

      http://www.makeuseof.com/answers/

      and click on ‘Ask a question’ button on the right .

      Aibek

      Aibek

  • Madhavnallapaneni

    aibek same prblm and it worked ,thank u very much,bcoz i completely wasted a day to fix this problem…………………gr8

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      glad it helped!

  • Tomtomchunchun

    thx, really worked …..fixed everythings ….genius

  • Carol

    have the same issue running Windows XP – do you have a link for Windows vs. Vista? thank you!

  • Edf3

    This is really worked! Thx man!

  • Dr Sid

    Actuall this is hardly your falt. It’s design flaw. In XP and older system it is not possible to chnge this association (other way then editing registry).

  • sourav

    thanks aibek, i am a new member,your fix .ink file related s/w really works, thanks a lot.

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      you’re welcome

  • Severance45

    hey dude had a prob with my files all in lnk.files i tried the first option 1 could,nt get to work but hey presto tried the 2 option worked like a dream all sorted now and thanx to you chears m8 any more prob,s ill be back thanx again aibek

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      I am glad it worked for you as well.

  • version 3.4

    thank you so much :)
    was worried a lot abt my pc, it was brand new..! it’s fixed now, thanks to u!! :) thanks a lot again!

  • Vishu Revuri

    It worked
    tnx aibek

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      awesome

  • Jnj7654

    Thanks for the solution for my .lnk problem. I’m a novice and was going crazy because I couldn’t open anything. Is there any explanation for why all extensions would be changed – I don’t recall doing anything!

  • http://www.itsupply.co.za Louis Botes

    Wow. Fantastic. As soon as I logged in with Teamviewer on my customer machine, I was breaking out sweats wondering how I’m gonna fix this. Thanks to google that made me find this article so quickly. And a fantastic website that made the effort to post this topic :)

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Glad to hear the information on MakeUseOf Answers helped you. :)

  • Meli

    Aibeck, I couldn’t thank you enough for that program. I am not technically savvy at all so when all my files changed I freaked.:)

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      I am glad you found it helpful. In case you experience any other
      issues don’t hesitate to ask for a fix on MakeUseOf Answers,
      http://www.makeuseof.com/answers/

  • Dev Cool1

    Thanks a lot…
    I faced problem with .link file system…
    But it solved for me…
    Your zip file is awsome…
    Thanks buddy…

  • Studentkings

    Thank A lOt…
    You are the best…
    I love you…

  • Risa

    Thankyou so much! That worked wonders on my laptop!!!! I am SO relieved!

  • Boris

    I prefer to use the first option since it’s safer, but you didn’t write what program should be assossoated with .lnk file. Please clarify…

  • Vetti08

    satisfiedUser++

    and btw windows 7 users use http://www.winhelponline.com/blog/file-asso-fixes-for-windows-7/

  • Dave SG

    Aibek ..thanks a lot..i really thought i screwed up…googled the problem ..and stumbled upon makeuseof.com …..my laptop is saved…and btw for those whose web browsers wont even open due to the messing up of the shortcuts i recommend u right click on internet explorer( or whatever was left of it ) and u will find the inprivate browsing window..use it to download…and it works!!!..im relieved…thanks again aibek

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      you’re welcome. glad it helped.

      • Richard

        Aibek. I did option one as you said but when it comes down to the option of choosing a program that opens all the lnk files it confuses me. since i somehow managed to make ALL my shortcuts lnk files.

        What should i do?

  • Babul4uonly

    thanks a lot…
    it works well in windows 7

  • Thepretty1024

    Thank you so so much!!!

  • S Johnston1

    I understand all the stuff in the Option 1 section, but when I get to

    - Click on the extension (to select it) and then click on “Change Program.”
    - Select the program you would like to open *.lnk file types.
    - Click on OK.

    Which program do I select? It’s only giving me the option of opening things in internet explorer which doesn’t help the situation.

    Option 2 is a forbidden website apparently too (403 error)

  • Lesdubose

    I couldn’t find an option to select, so I just used your download and presto! Everything was back to normal. Thank you

  • http://www.facebook.com/people/Vikas-Gupta/1570707592 Vikas Gupta

    Thanks dear it worked it saved me from formating my system window.
    really thanks……

  • Nitinchaudhary48

    what about window xp sp2… i ve a pen drive all the folders are of a shortcut icon.. and all are .lnk file…give me the solution coz these are my imp.dat.how to change them into original format

  • Animeshlodha

    thanks a lot really helped. use it without any doubt works for all operating systems..once again thanks a lot

  • Cdnfbi

    A friend called me in deep desparation to come over and fix her computer “All my icons changed now I can’t run anything. All my icons are changed, my computer is broken”. A quick teamviewer session proved she had changed her LNK association and your ZIP file was the quick fix ….. I took initial credit for being a hero, but then gave makeuseof.com the credit for supplying the answer !!! THANKS <-that's a big thanks

  • matahari

    THANK YOU !!!! THANK YOU!!! THANK YOU!!! This really worked. God bless.

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Glad to hear that MakeUseOf Answers could help! Thank you for taking the time to let us know. :)

  • Fredy

    i have try it on win 7 & it works. thank you.

  • Sarahmichellewalsh

    Hi, I followed the steps up until “Select the program you would like to open *.lnk file types. “…. how do I know what program I want to use to open them???
    Please help :(

  • Matthew

    Fixed for me too, thanks!

  • Gopikrish2000

    Thanks a lottttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt , really helped me by downloading that reg, once again thanks a lot

  • Shubharaj99

    thanks a lot brother

  • Mynofa

    I had the same problem, and it’s fixed now. Thanx a lot.

  • Sargeant

    thanks alot almost cried

  • Deron

    i need help my laptop keeping opening with the same file and i dont know what to do

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Deron,

      did you follow the steps outlined above? What happened?

  • Hiaces

    I thank you so much you saved my computer and my hinny. Its almost christmas to. Happy Christmas!!

  • Khepera

    Using Windows 7 and the downloaded file will not open. It asks which program created it an I don’t know what to open. Or I get a pop up asking to run or save and when I choose run the same menu pops up. What am I doing differently than everyone else?

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Khepera,

      it sounds like in your case, the .exe file extension was changed. We had a similar question before. Maybe the answers given there can help you. Check it out: http://www.makeuseof.com/answers/undo-open-with-selection-exe-files/

      Please ask a new question if you are still stuck with the problem. Please describe the symptoms and what may have caused them as good as you can.

      Good luck!

  • Rahmansharjil

    WOW…………thanks alot,,,,,,i m able to change…..

  • yelena

    THANK YOU VERY VERY MUCH

  • Krukur

    I actualy found the option 1 before I found option 2 here on this site, however I didnt know what program was supposed to open the .lnk I dont know if any1 else had that problem, but perhaps that would be a nice thing to mention in your glorious fixing post

    Thanks for the great fix!

  • Fredde-swe

    Rox, I went here and this fixed my friends problem (windows 7).. Thank you !!!!!!!!<3

  • Dameshamason

    yea u can i do it

  • Dameshamason

    what do people
    be so mean

  • Carolyn

    What program am I supposed to open the .lnk file in?

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      With no program. Unfortunately, Windows 7 doesn’t offer this option in ‘Set Associations’. Thus it’s best to run the .exe file that fixes the registry.

  • Rob321-

    what program do i browse for to open the .lnk files with?

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Per default, lnk files are not associated with any program. However, since you cannot remove a file type association, only replace it, I guess the easiest way is to run the .exe file.

  • Marian_stoica

    I CANT BILIEVE !!! THE DOWNLOADABLE LINK IT WORK’S ! I just run it and next I restart the computer . (windows 7) it works !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Glad it worked and thanks for the feedback! :)

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      glad to hera you could make use of it :-)

  • Diwaker26069

    thanks a lot

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      you’re welcome

  • http://twitter.com/warmaxz M k a

    Omg i was trying to figure how to fix it for the past 4 hours and boom i came here and i just downloaded the fix and i lanched it and restarted and ! it worked like magic

    thanks alot :D

    (on windows 7 32bit laptop)

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      glad it worked for you as well :-)

  • Anshul

    Aibek…!!! U R AWESOME…..!!!

  • Ed

    Aibek,thanks. It worked for me(windows 7).

  • Kp

    THAAAAAANKS!!!!!!!!! THAT REALLT HELPED!!!!!!:D:D:D:D:D

  • ayebab

    i thought i have to reformat may computer to fix my problem. thanks to you guys!!!

  • Gc_bamrah

    hey abek thax soooooo lot it really works………..

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      you’re welcome!

  • Louxtreme

    Dear Aibek
    I tried to transfer Games folder from one computer (windows 7 office 2007 professional) to another computer running the same systems and software but i keep getting a
    CANT OPEN THIS FILE .lnk do you want to use the web or select a installed program.

    They are are standard window games eg spider solitaire, why they didnt come installed i dont know, why i cant transfer them i dont know?

    I am a novice at this stuff, HELP please what do i do

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Louxtreme,

      could it be that you didn’t move the games themselves, but only the shortcuts (.lnk files) to the original source?

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      Hi there,

      You can’t transfer the files this way. there is an alternative way to
      add Windows Games to your syste. It’s very easy. Please ask this as anew
      question on MakeUseOf Answers, http://www.makeuseof.com/answers/#expand

      Your questions should say, How Can I Add Default Windows 7 Games To My
      Computer.

      Aibek

  • Bradmeister11

    It wont even let me get onto the internet to download that, im using another computer. is there a way around this?

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Use another computer to download the file, put it on a USB flash drive and run it from there.

  • Lion

    Will this fix program restore the .crt association on Windows 7 64 bit? Currently it is pointing to notepad and it want change to anything else.

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Lion,

      I’m not sure I understand your question. Is a file with .crt file extension pointing to notepad? The tool will only fix the .lnk file association. I think you should ask a new question. Please click the respective button on the top of the page and fill in the question form. Thank you!

  • Tasnee

    ONLY IF THERE WERE MORE AWESOME PPL LIKE YOU!! OPTION 2 DID IT FOR ME,,!!!
    THANKS A ZILLION

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      you’re welcome. glad it worked.

  • Emmie

    Option 2 worked for me! Thanks a million.

  • Obr159

    thanks to my superhero: D very highly here within easy for me to beat those two at thepossibility dikyekuji

  • http://www.facebook.com/Mr.SaLaW Muhammad Aizat Bin Sanudin

    I opened the zip file to my desktop like you said and then double clicked the icon but still get the “windows cannot open whatever file with the .reg extension” what would I associate that with?
    Same thing happens with the other file.

    Thanks

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Did you try to run the file as Administrator?

  • Ecaterina_c

     Hi! I have a problem I cannot solve… I selected skype to open .Ink files as default, it was a mistake and now everything opens with it even Documents… I don’t know how to fix it. Is any program I can download to fix it or can anybody tells me what can do? Pleeeeeeease! Thank you!

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Ecaterina,

      did you try the second (registry) fix posted by Aibek?

  • Mnsrinivas

    thanks alot my god thank u for tht

  • Anton Blaberg

    All of my shortcuts are .lnk files so I follow all of ur steps when u went into the big list were I choosed the .lnk place u know I couldn’t choose 1 program because all programs are diffrent so I cant just choose Windows media player for example XD.  Is there any programs that opens the shortcut like the regular file does? I just want to reset .lnk to normal shortcut again!

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Anton,

      you need to run the registry fix that Aibek linked to. There is no program that runs lnk files, but the problem can be fixed by editing registry entries, which the above fix does automatically for you.

  • Richard

    Hi Tina,
    I was trying to download a file using winzip, it turn all the file on my desktop into a same icon, when it tried to fix the problem by cliking many buttoms, the icons were changed to  microsoft word default. at this time i am not able to use many of my files.
    Please I am wondering if you could help me.
    Richard

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Richard,

      did you try the registry fix that Aibek linked to in the very first comment within this thread?

  • Richard

    Tina,
    Yes . I tried the first option
    In selection the appropriate program I had only the option of Adobe reader and looking other program on internet m so i tried with Adobe reader. It changed the icon to adobe reader but I still have the same problem.
    Please I don’t know if i have to browse to internet to get the appropriate program? Which program I should select in doing so?
    And using the link in the second option you mentioned, it did not work for me.
    Probably I am not using it properly. I am a novice in computer but willing to learn.
    Thank you very much for your time and consideration.

  • @YOju4n

    THX!!! it really worked … 

    i really thx u.. i have this issue at my job’s computer… it was dramatic .. really .. i didnt know wat to do xD…

    but now the problem its solved.. thx u again :D  

  • Darling120

    Hi Tina,

    Thank you very much.
    I GOT IT
    THANX A MILLION

    RICHARD

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Glad it worked for you, but I cannot take the praise for it. Aibek documented the fix first! :)

  • Norm

    Thank you! The LnkFix download did the job splendidly!

  • Rgomezeti

    Thank you so much Aibek, option 2 worked perfectly.. After searching for about 5 hours for a solution that works you’ve saved the day. Thanks man.

    -Rob

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      you’re welcome!

      • Newomegasoft81

        you’re the man….keep it up.thanks a lot….

  • Sudiptapjain

    THANK U SO MUCH- VISTA FILE WORKED FINE WITH MY WIN 7… UR A LIFE SAVER…

  • Jhoevz

    I’ve been searching the web for the same problem and thanks to Aibek for sharing the knowledge..now my unit is fully operational once again..Thank you so much..

  • Mithun lal

    i am suffering from the same problem …..i am not able to download those ,,,it says its unavailable now ,,,,,

  • Mithunlal

    ya i downloaded those but still not working ya

  • Wan5239

    solution no 2 work like a charm….. TQ

  • Paulntwali2006

    Thank you very much Aibek for your great support on .lnk extension, you really turn the dark day into yellow day. My name is J.Paul (Rwanda -Africa)

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      you’re welcome

  • Shill3

    So I am guessing you have to pay for this program once you have downloaded the link? Right? Any other options?

  • Rodden Rufaro Chikonzo

    thanks a lot it worked. may the good Lord Jesus Christ bless you with the desires of your heart and perfect all that concerns you.

  • Phatak Tejas

    Brilliant. This works ! :)

  • http://www.facebook.com/people/Ajay-Daniel/100001387448444 Ajay Daniel

    last month i installed linux ubuntu after few days i removed but the drive in which ubuntu is installes , that drive is not show. so plz help me

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Ajay,

      this is a different question. I recommend you to post a new question using the respective link in the top left on the Answers page.

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      Ajay,

      please ask it as a new question on MakeUseOf Answers,
      http://www.makeuseof.com/answers/

      Aibek

  • Chrisa

    thanks a lot !!!!!!! You are a jenious!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    no 2 option it worked!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • Matthew

    OMG THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I WAS JUST ABOUT TO USE BY BACKUP DISKS AND THEN I CAME UPON THIS AND IT WAS LIKE HEAVEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • Asdfasfg

    worked like a charm :)

  • Marthaarman

    Thx bro… You really helper me out!

  • Davidjbrock

    Thanks so much…  2 hours of trying solve my computer-illiterate bro-in-law’s problem over the phone… banging my head on the desk… this solved it in 2 minutes. You’re the best!

  • Yuval1967

    thanks so much  its working great

  • kibi

    Option two worked best. Thanks man! Your a genius. Thanks for sharing this great stuff for us. Bless You!

  • Computer_Girl

    Thank you so much… It worked for me.. cheers !

  • Meena_vora55

    Hi

    Thanks for the link posted at top – the 1st did not work for me but the download did. This is after asking the peeps frm my antivirus company who could not help me and it took them a few weeks to realise the problem. Even then, they could still not help me!!

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Glad the registry fix worked for you, Meena.
      Maybe you should share the solution with the folks from your antivirus company.

  • Cenamarine11

    this thing dident fucking work u asshole

  • nb

    oh my gooooodness thank you SO MUCH!! your a lifesaver!

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=549836896 Rashid Mamadeus

    Worked like a charm (option 2)! A year after your post, still another very positive feedback is added to your account! Probably not the last. Cheers!

    Greetings from Amsterdam, The Netherlands

  • AYRgb

    thank u…solved everything
    very helpful :D :D:D:D:D:D:D

  • MBM

    thank you so much, i did exactly the same thing and found all my short cuts useless, option 2 worked for me- simply run & restart :)

  • neeraj

    thanks for giving nice
    solution ….

  • Quest 129

    i don’t get it

  • Quest 129

    i don’t get it

  • Quest 129

    i don’t work for me

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Did you try the registry fix? Download it using this link: http://www.winhelponline.com/fileasso/lnkfix_vista.zip

  • Jaslina

    with what program do a open the ink file with

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      None. You have to use the registry fix. You can download it using this link: http://www.winhelponline.com/fileasso/lnkfix_vista.zip

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000470929651 MIkee Lao

    thank you so much …. it works….

  • Juul

    Option 2 workss ! 
    searched all over the internet
    and it is so simple.
    thanksss!

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Thanks for the feedback Juul and glad it worked for you!

  • Snadarsh33

    I found an easy solution.It is really very easy 

    Go to the link below

    http://gadgets-priceinindia.blogspot.com/2011/09/files-in-phone-changed-to-shortcut.html

  • http://www.facebook.com/people/Eline-Waarsenburg-Nauta/1019371459 Eline Waarsenburg-Nauta

    Fixed! Thanks!

  • Rni

    thanks for the info…fixed.. :)

  • Surya Uppala

    Is there a any fix for *.lnk problem for Windows 2008 operating system? 

  • Kripalsinhzala7

    THANX!!!!

  • Utahn0707

    Is this link safe to use on a shared work network?

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      It is safe!

  • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

    Mish,

    you also submitted this as a question and it will be published asap.

  • Cynthiamacias1

    I Need HElP ASAP for some weird reason my laptop will not let me open any kind of file is there someting i can do to fix it :c.. I tried somee websites but non of help seem to be any help. 

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      As a first step I would suggest trying system restore. If that doesn’t help please submit this as a new question on MakeUseOf Answers, http://www.makeuseof.com/answers/

      Make suer to include more detailed information about the problem and things you have tried so far to fix it.

      Aibek

  • Jeremy Atkins

    Wait, so what is .lnk supposed to open with in the first place? Option 1 would only work if you know that critical bit of information.

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Ture. Option 1 doesn’t work for lnk files because they are just shortcuts that don’t open one specific program.

  • Jeremy Atkins

    Also, the download for Option 2 is for VISTA. Not Windows 7. Could you please post the link to the WINDOWS 7 version of the program?

    • Jeremy Atkins

      Apparently, the file name is misleading, because it DOES work for Windows 7 as well as Vista.

  • Dan

    Awesome, it worked so cool.

  • bash

    I am a same problem have changed *.lnk file to microsoft word somehow now i can i bring it to default and what is the default file which i should assocaite *.lnk file to ? Please let me know

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Bash,

      please use the registry fix described in the second option. This one has worked for dozens of people that have commented before you.

  • Switchfoot2093

    it’s actually works! thank you so much! :) I thought I need to reformat my PC. *Lol

  • http://twitter.com/ckshea1992 Ckshea

    It didnt work for my lnk files(folders) in my mobile phone(appear as removable disk). Any idea? :(

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Ckshea,

      sounds like you are having a different issue. What mobile operating system are you running on your phone? Since you are unlikely to receive a response within this comment thread, I recommend you to ask a new question. Please provide a thorough description of your issue and what you have already tried to fix it. Thank you!

      • http://twitter.com/ckshea1992 Ckshea

        Now my problem was solved. Thanks for your advice! :)

  • Ralph

    Aibek, you seriously just saved my life. I’ve spent the last 45 minutes looking for a solution to this problem. Thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou

  • Ralph

    Aibek, you seriously just saved my life. I’ve spent the last 45 minutes looking for a solution to this problem. Thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      you’re welcome :)

  • Specialangel2000

    YAY Hooray……Even my computer guy could not tell me what to do. Have been going nuts with this for months……….Voila…….the zip undid all the mess and corrected it all. THANK YOU!!!!

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      Glad it worked! :)

  • newboy

    Option 2 work well with me aswell… the first option is quite easy for us newcomers however doesn’t shed light to the program to select. in the case that there was a program associated with it, how do you change it using option one to return to original i.e. shortcut file without editing the registry?

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      If you don’t want to return to the registry than you need to know which program used to be associated with particular file type and re-associate (using right-click menu) it for each broken file type.

  • Sibi

    Thanks man. .  Great one. .. Worked well just like that. . .    :)

  • Kudzie

    THANKS YR ARE A GENIUS

  • http://twitter.com/ose_16 Oskari

    Thank you so much!

  • demmostu

    After download the option 2, what should i do then?? i dont understand what do u mean by unzip it, and run it. It will make necessary changes to the registry. help me help me

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      The file in option two is a ZIP archive. You can unzip it (open it) using free tools like 7-zip or Windows’ WinZip. After extracting the archive, you will have the actual registry fix file. Just double-click it, it should ask whether it shall merge with your registry and you need to confirm this. That’s how the fix is applied.

  • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

    glad it worked!

  • Melchizedek_43

    thanks a lot… 
    i fixed it..

  • Madebyjapan

    Whenever I do option 1 I choose the LNK file but when I click choose program it opens another tab asking what program to open this file…
    whenever I do option 2 I try to change the icon for example but it never saves of changes

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/answers Tina

      What exactly happens when you apply the registry fix of option 2? It should automatically fix your lnk file associations.

      • Gloriosojoseph66

        yes it automatically fix

  • Angealine1990

    Yesssssssssss i had this problem a long time ago… thksssssss a lot

  • Gloriosojoseph66

    dude thank you ! i the first one does not work on my pc so i downloaded the it work thanks !!

  • Webned1

    thanks alot ,same problem as all the others.
    was breaking my brain to solve this problem, untill i d-loaded this little tool

    love you allways

  • Suraz Ltk

    thaks you very much for the idea because after  a long process i  found your solution it was done esily.

  • Tom Joseph

    Thanks.. its  working for win 7 …superb

  • Tom Joseph

    Thanks.. its  working for win 7 …superb

  • Aeatot08

    i have the same problem ’bout the .lnk file type, at this moment i tried to re-open one of my apps using (open with) and i choose windows media player after clicking it all of the icons were gone to windows movie player at first they were all internet explorer icons,what should i do?help plss..

  • Eminem_aspirine

    Thank u soooooooooooooooooooooo much dude it had really troubled me alot thanks it really works……

  • Cire_raltiz

    I had thesame problem and i tried your solution.It really worked. Thank you for posting such helpful information

  • Vaggelisgamatos

    wowwwwwwwwwwww! Perfect!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • THIS WORKS

    The link works perfect in windows 7 and vista
    to OP: Much thanks!

  • Akash Nagar

    Thanx Dude.. it’s working… ;)

  • Ray

    Splendid!!! It worked!!! I downloaded the software and when i restarted everything was back to normal!!! Thanks a lot

  • Thilina Wijewardana

    Thanks a lot man! It fixed my problem.U genius boy!

  • maddy

    thanks a lot man ur awesome nice work keep it up

  • madhavan

    how to convert lnk files back to defult above said is not working.. all my desktop icons and the icons in start have been changed to lnk files

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      please refer to the very first answer/comment here for an easy fix.

  • Boroo

    Hello. I from Mongolia. Just had a similar problem. All my .lnk turned into an .Lnk . . . turned them into an MSWORD program executable. i tried to fix into control panel, but my  system language is in Korean. that was very hard to me. cuz i’m Mongolian. i dunno Korean 100%. then i used that download link and now everything is back to normal,,thanks a
    lot for that,even tech guys could’nt help me with this one,,thanks again

  • Han_bmb

    my comment:(

  • Shuklayogesh

    your solution was very accurate

  • Thimza

    ROCK STAR… thanx worked for me

  • Satish Eee32

    Thanks for the above…. it worked very nice.

  • Lilis10lt

    Thank you, thank so much you save me :-)

  • David

    Great solution, one of my colleagues had managed to set all his shortcuts to open with nero and this fixed it instantly, thanks!!

  • aboraheal

    thank you

    the first option worked for me on windows 7

    thank you

  • Jeremyk

    I got this same problem because of a virus fix. I added a couple default programs in the set association panel but obviously no cigar. I was happy to find this fix but unfortunatly I still have the exact same problem after amending the fix into my registry. I’d take your advice and start a new thread but I don’t know what to ask and you guys seem to be on top on things. Any other ideas?

    • Jay

      Restore you pc, using system restore to a restore point when it worked fine without any problem.

    • Anonymous

      Hi
      Download FixExeLnk
      http://www.ptorris.com/outils.php
      Its in french, so after extraction click on FixExeLnk.exe and then check the three box and click on appliquer. 

    • Anonymous

      Hi
      Download FixExeLnk
      http://www.ptorris.com/outils.php
      Its in french, so after extraction click on FixExeLnk.exe and then check the three box and click on appliquer. 

    • FIDELIS

      Hello, was your computer infected really bad?  How was it cleaned?  Is your operating system windows 7?  Can you download superantispyware and give your computer a full scan?  This is the link for portable version of the program.  It will download with a file with the .com extension, so you shouldn’t have a problem running it.  Because it is the portable version of program, you can run it from a flashdrive.  You do not have to update…it already is.

      http://www.superantispyware.com/portablescanner.html?tag=SAS_HOMEPAGE

      This is what you can do:

      – download program either to computer or flashdrive
      – double click on the file downloaded SAS_XXXXXXX.com
      – enter password if needed
      – click on ok for default language
      – click on preferences and make sure to only leave unmarked the following:
      ignore system restore
      – click on the home icon
      – make sure to select complete scan
      – click on scan
      – let full scan complete and remove any entries found (if any)
      – restart system to complete cleaning of entries found.

      I am just trying to make sure your system is clean.  Ok, now download the portable edition of re-enable:

      http://www.tangosoft.co.uk/downloads.html

      Once program is downloaded, do the following:

      – double click on file downloaded
      – enter password if needed
      – click on run
      – make sure all options are marked
      – click on re-enable
      – once that is done, on menu click on Tools
      – select repair explorer.exe startup problems

      Let me know if it was fixed or if  superantispyware found any entries.  Reply to my message instead of just replying.  If you reply to my message, I’ll get your answer.  If you just reply, I will not.

  • Aurelle

    Thxxx so much for helping,Option 2 wrked so quickly and so well! :) :):)

  • Xihongw

    Thank you so much, it is really works for win7

  • Tyler

    Thank you so much it worked :)

  • mamali

    woooooooooooowwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww ….tx for your help ….txxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx bro

  • Artyom

    Thank you so much,

    you are help me much more.

    Thanks…

  • Hajimirzaei Dvm

    Thank yot so much from Aibek. for 2th solution.

  • keitaro

    somebody please tell me what i should do?!! have the exact same problem but dont see the solution anywhere :(

  • Subhash Mudaliyar

    DEAR SIR
    WHEN I START WINDOWS ALL THE FILE IN THE DESKTOD TURNS INTO NOTEPOADPLEASE GVE ME SOLUTION STEP BY STEP PLEASE HELP ME

  • Cehtrixz

    how can i fix .lnk files

    • FIDELIS

      Hello, what is your operating system?  The reason I ask is because this files are different for operating system.  If you are using windows 7, you can use the vista version.  These are the links:

      For Wiindows 7:
      http://www1.k9webprotection.com/

      For Vista:
      http://www.winhelponline.com/articles/105/1/File-association-fixes-for-Windows-Vista.html

      For XP:
       http://www.dougknox.com/xp/file_assoc.htm

      What you do is the following:

      – visit any of the links according to your operating system
      – scroll down until you find the lnk link
      – click on it to download
      – file will be downloaded in a zip extension
      – once file is downloaded, unzip with windows tool
      – double click on extracted file with a .reg extension
      – when it asks you if you want to merge with registry, select yes
      – restart your computer

      Let me know if it works.

  • P_hariyogi

    thanx

  • CB

    Thank you soooo much. The first one worked.  Happy New Year

  • CB

    Correction.  It was the 2nd one that worked thanks.

  • Joeri

    Hi all,

     

    I have a same problem….i need to remove unwanted program for .Dll
    file.

    I’ve successfully followed these steps:
    HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerFileExts[file

    extension]OpenWithList.

    Then I checked the
    Recommended Program List for .Dll file. But unwanted program was still
    there in list. So i thought changes might be reflected after reboot.
    But even after reboot it was showing the program in list.

    I’ve again confirmed that key is deleted or not…key was removed
    properly…do we need to follow some other steps in addition to
    aforementioned steps???

    I also tried Ccleaner but it doesnt help also.

    Any help in this regard will be greatly appreciated. 

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      Hi Joeri,

      After you made the changes what happens when you trey to open the .dll file? Does it work as expected? Any similar with files other than .dll?
      The fact that the program is listed under Recommended Program List isn’t really a big deal.

      Aibek

  • Kabuga usher

    many thanx,
    i solved the problem with in a min using the second option.

    Happy new year and thanx indeed for your great help.

    Cheers;
    Usher Kagz K

  • Abulnass

    Dear Aibek ,
    Thank you ver much for this helpful topic , thanks thanks ….

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      you’re welcome!

  • Davidstaar

    Thank you

  • Jerome Bernard

    i.love.you
    thank you so much!
    providing tech support to my girlfriend through TeamViewer.
    the registry edit file you provided was perfect.
    thank you!

  • Jay Ramdas

    Aibek thnx for solution

  • Analeadellinger624

    Thank-you a million times over, I have piles of h-work to do and every file was opening in photo gallery as blank–this fix saved me money

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      you’re welcome!

  • Jonie

    What if I cannot find the .lnk file extension?

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      try the option with the download.

  • Marco_vintimilla

    Hello!!! What a great help! I fixed my PC in 5 seconds. Thanks!!!

  • Arno25

    Thank you so much. It fixed everything ;) I think that i shoud rewrite my windows …

  • Thomas

    Thanks sooooooo much Aibek I couldn’t find a solution anywhere :D

  • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

    did you try the fix we posted here?
    If this started happening recently I suggest trying System Restore first. To access System Restore right click My Computer icon on the Desktop and select Properties
    Click on System Protection and you should see System restore option. Follow restore procedure.

    Aibek

  • Enviroguy2222

    I could not get my start menu icons to work and when I clicked on them I would get an error that said something about Java  (TM) 6 Update 3, blah, blah that downloaded just before I had this problem. The icons all turned into java coffe cups that did not work.  I fixed it by deleting that new Java version AND then clicking on the Option 2 link that you suggested. I hit the “run” button and poof the Start Menu icons now work and open up the respective files. Now, how can I change the Start Menu icons to look like they did before instead of the new, blank sheets of paper-type of icons?

  • Enviroguy2222

    By the way you are a genius. You saved me alot of money, time and panic!!!!!!!!!

    • http://www.makeuseof.com/ Aibek

      glad could be helpful

  • Khat_182001

    Thank you aibek your a life saver :) it really helps

  • Abhiroop De

    Thank you so much…I was really scared…thanks a lot.
    Abhiroop
    India

  • kirat

    im reallllllllllyyy thankful to this website … i was in trouble but now im so happy for solution i got wiith the help of makeuseof.com thanks… wishing you more success in the future

  • Leon le

    thank you so much it works =]

  • Chase

    Worked Perfectly!

  • dude

    Aibek, youre the best! Thank you so much

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