How can I reset default programs in Windows 7?

Question

By mistake I had changed default program with other files and now all of my files and programs seem to have been changed to word documents, and they do not open. I cannot even open the internet any more in order to find a solution.

I have tried opening files using different methods, but for some reason, it seems to request that I download something. If I click open it opens a webpage, which then closes before loading.

How can I go back to my original settings? If possible, I would like as much detail as possible.

Solution

You can restore the default program from Control panel

Control Panel->Programs->Default Programs->Set Program access and computer default ->Microsoft Windows->OK

You can also control which application has to open a particular file from Control Panel->Programs->Default Programs->Set Default Program`

For a single file format you can right click on the file and select Open with and Choose Default Program and select your necessary application.

Comments

[Mrsonord]

What do you mean when you say you changed default program with other files? What happens when you press the windows key+r and type cmd?

[CharlieRB]

Are you able to enter Safe Mode on boot? If so, does the problem persist? If not, can you run virus & malware scans?