Have you accidentally changed the default program that opens a folder or extension and now you can't access it like before? We explain step by step how to solve this common problem in Windows, especially when it has been accidentally modified from the Registry Editor (Regedit). It affects users who, through ignorance or accident, select the wrong application, causing Windows to stop recognizing how to open directories.
This inconvenience can cause even basic actions like trying to open folders from File Explorer to end in frustration. The good news is that there are several methods to return to what you had before, fix errors, restore settings, and get your system working again without having to reinstall Windows. Throughout this article, We will analyze all available solutions, from the simplest to the most technical to leave your computer as good as new.
What is Regedit and how can it affect the system?
Regedit is the Windows Registry Editor, an advanced tool that allows you to modify internal operating system settings. Incorrect changes here can disable essential functions or cause unexpected errors. For example, modifying the key associated with folders or file types can leave Windows at a loss when trying to open a folder or file with a certain extension.
Problem with incorrectly associating programs
When we change the default program of a folder or extension to an incorrect one, Windows loses the original association and can cause errors such as not opening anything when double-clicked. This problem is exacerbated if the new value directly affects the behavior of File Explorer or Regedit, making it impossible to even access the editor itself to revert the change.
Solutions from within the Windows environment itself
Before we dive into the Registry, there are system-wide solutions that can help you restore the original behavior:
1. System Restore
If you made any recent changes and turned on system restore, you can return to the point where everything was working correctlySimply search for "System Restore" in the Windows search bar, select the item before the change, and follow the instructions.
2. Use the DISM tool
DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) allows you to repair system errors using Windows Update files. From a command prompt (CMD) with administrator permissions, run:
DISM.exe / Online / Cleanup-image / RestoreHealth
If you have a Windows installation folder as a recovery source:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:C:\RepairSource\Windows /LimitAccess
Replace C:\RepairSource\Windows with the correct location.
3. SFC Command
You can also try to repair corrupted system files with the command:
sfc / scannow
This command scans the system and, if it detects errors, attempts to automatically correct them.
Direct solutions from the Windows Registry
If you can no longer open folders normally, you may the default association in the Registry has been damaged or changedTo fix this without direct browser access:
1. Access Regedit
Press Windows + R, writes regedit and press Enter. If you can't log in, try accessing it from another user or from Safe Mode.
2. Important keys to review
To restore folder opening:
Go to the route:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT \ Directory \ shell
It should be inside «default» in (Default). Verify that the value is:
none o explores
You can also check out:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT \ Folder \ shell
and correct the default value if it has been changed.
Remove incorrect associations
If you changed the value of the program associated with a file extension or type (such as .exe, .lnk, .directory), you'll need to restore the correct association. To do this, see the guide. How to fix registry errors. Search these registry paths:
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER \ Software \ Microsoft \ Windows \ CurrentVersion \ Explorer \ FileExts
- HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.extension
And verify that each file type points to its corresponding class. For example:
.exe → exefile
.lnk → lnkfile
If you find that they point to another program, change them.
Registry Backup and Restore
Before modifying anything, it is advisable to make a backup copy of the registry:
- Open Regedit
- Click File → Export
- Choose "Team" as the scope and save a .reg copy
If you already had a backup, simply double-click the corresponding .reg file and the system will automatically restore the settings.
Applications that help repair the registry
If you don't want to touch the registry manually, there are specialized tools that fix common errors:
Wise Registry Cleaner
This program helps detect and fix errors, create backups, and improve performance. It's easy to use and compatible with Windows 10.
Glarysoft Registry Repair
Automatically scans the registry and repairs faulty entries without advanced user intervention.
RegCleanPro
It allows you to perform in-depth analysis, optimize your system, and schedule automatic registry scans.
Wondershare 1-Click PC Care
Ideal for non-technical users. Automates error correction and improves overall system performance.
Solution to other errors related to folders
Cannot rename a folder
This often happens due to a lack of permission. Check:
- Properties → Security → Edit Permissions
If you can't rename any files, try restarting or running the Windows Troubleshooter.
File Explorer not responding
This could be due to connected external drives or corrupted temporary files. Try:
- Restart without connected devices
- Force restart the browser from Task Manager
- Clean boot (msconfig → Services → Disable everything except Microsoft and antivirus)
Other common errors and how to fix them
Duplicate USB drives
This error can be fixed by deleting the key:
{F5FB2C77-0E2F-4A16-A381-3E560C68BC83} within:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Desktop\NameSpace\DelegateFolders
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Desktop\NameSpace\DelegateFolders
Files that are not moved to the trash
Verify:
- You are not pressing the Shift key when deleting
- That you don't delete them from CMD
- Trash Properties → Do not check "Permanently Delete"
Disk input/output error
It's often due to hardware issues. You can try:
- Change cable
- Change USB port
- Update drivers
- Command: chkdsk /f /r /x X: (X is the letter of the disk)
- Analyze with Speccy
Extra recommendations when using Regedit
- Do not modify values that you do not understand.
- Always make a backup first
- Check several times before deleting keys
With all these instructions, you're likely to get your system back to normal operation if you encounter problems resulting from changing the default program for opening folders or files from Regedit or due to a manual error. You have both manual solutions and automatic tools that will allow you to revert the changes without having to format the system or lose your data. Acting promptly is key to avoiding further damage.
