BleepingComputer.com: Cannot launch 'exe's after XP Total Security removal

Hi,
I Removed "XP Total Security 2011" using steps here - http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/virus-removal/remove-antivirus-vista-2010

Malware no longer manifests *but* the all mapping to 'exe' files is gone (eg cmd.exe etc...)

Anyone with some advice please.

Thanks,

Hi lanrat,

Step 17 should restore your files http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/virus-removal/remove-windows-restore
Good Luck

Hi,

Appreciate the response :^) unfortunately I was perhaps too vague in my question.

The 'exe' files are *not hidden* - I can see them but cannot launch any of them!!

One of the things "XP Total security" does is hijack/disable any/all exe's from launching and even though the process I followed has removed the malware I still cannot LAUNCH any exe's. Clicking on an exe opens the windows "Open with" selection window. That's why I said the 'mapping' is corrupt/disabled. This is obviously a registry thing.

Any help appreciated!!!

UPDATE!! - downloaded and ran "Restore default association for EXE files" from http://www.dougknox.com/xp/file_assoc.htm.

exe's are now launching again - re-running MalwareBytes to verify machine is clean.