Default Program and EXE issuse

[BusterSenshi]

I am working on a computer that is running Windows 7 pro.

The computer had an issue where when it was loaded up all .EXE files had the VLC traffic cone icon, I read in this thread to change the default program to handle the file to explorer (As directed in this thread: http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/59447-3-icons-changed )

This however cause Windows to run over 1000+ instances of explorer.exe in the task manager, and all of the icons no longer have the traffic cone icon.

I was then told in this thread that I could fix this by using regedit as directed here:
http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_vista-windows_programs/unable-to-open-exe-files/039ceca1-c81f-4136-8c04-bf13c0378495

Now because the the changes I have done in regedit everything that was an EXE on the computer is trying to run explorer.exe and I can not stop it...

So what do I do?

 

[i7Baby]

What do you mean "The computer had an issue where when it was loaded up"?

Fix it by trying a System Restore or if that doesn't work - a Windows re-install.

 

[Gaming God]

What do you mean "The computer had an issue where when it was loaded up"?

Fix it by trying a System Restore or if that doesn't work - a Windows re-install.

backup restoration is always advisable than re install, since you retain all your datas.