"application not found" when i try to open anything?

hi there, i have a problem with my dell xps m1530 running vista home premium 32 bit. i had a virus a few weeks ago and ever since i have had major problems with all programmes. when i try to open microsoft word and pretty much every program actually it comes up "this file does not have a program associtaed with it for performing this action. create an association in the Set Associations control panel," and when i try to download programs to help with this i cant open any downloads and this messages appears "Application not found". any ideas anyone?

Hi Waitey, welcome to the Forum.

You may follow the steps in the below mentioned link.

Fix application association error

If the problem still persist, create a new user account and check if the issue still persist. If the issue is solved in new user account, you may have corrupted profile.

These links may help you in problem trobleshoot.

Create New User Account In Windows Vista

troulbleshoot a corrupted profile


Thanks.
Arvin

Try this

http://www.vistax64.com/tutorials/233243-default-file-type-associations-restore.html

Tutorial thanks to Brink

Hello

After a virus attach do NOT use any of your restore points as you will Re-Infect your computer delete them and start new ones...

If you know when the virus has struck, you can safely use Restore points from before the attack. Restore points are protected from change. American Critic is correct if you are not CERTAIN of the points made before the attack.