If you can get back to your desktop, using Wolfies link, open the task manager and look under the start up tab. If you see the codex pack there, disable it.
This could be the solution. However, I do not think it is that software that has caused the change of handles. Perhaps(?) you downloaded the program from a doubtful source and you have picked up a very mischievous virus. Disabling, as I said, may cure the problem, but it may already be too late.
Thank you for your reply Dave.
Will try this one in the morning.
I can boot into Windows 10, and have windows Explorer running, that is how I found the all .exe files were renamed.
I got to find a way to fix the former .exe programs to work again even if it will be one at the time.
Plain renaming did not work. My best royou, stay safe
TonyH
Hi Tony,
what
@davehc said about you having a virus might well be the problem, try an "
Offline virus scan" first using Windows Defender if you use it!.
You can use Microsoft Defender Offline Scan straight from the Microsoft Defender Antivirus app. You can also manage how it's deployed in your network.
docs.microsoft.com
If you don't use WD, there are several offline scanners available!.
A bootable virus scanner can delete viruses from your PC when Windows won't start. Here's a list of our favorite free ways to run a USB virus scan.
www.lifewire.com
Hi Wolfie,
again thanks for your input, much appreciate it.
just to skip the usual and common fixes, here is what I found out:
- Windows Defender has run a check 4x and found no viruses or malware.
- I have no problem booting into Windows 10 and login in.
- All Desktop icons are white paper, and none work. No links from the task bar or Start menu work.
- I can get to Restore, but it does not even start - not that it would be of any use.
- CTRL-ALT-DEL does not start - stopping some process would not fix the problem.
- Have no Internet access from Windows as no browsers work (have them all). All are .exe files (no choice but to use Linux)
- Checked the default Apps by extension - but there is no .exe extension listed - it is missing.
- The programs I know the exe was renamed to ini - renaming them back to exe did not help - still not working.
The only way I was able to get into File Explorer is by opening a Program folder I have on the desktop I keep for the seldom used shortcuts.
No files that still have the .exe extension work anywhere on the PC.
But somehow a screen with apps with their pictures appeared - I have never ever seen this one - apps control panel.
I was able to find and actually uninstall the X Codex program with it.
Unfortunately this action has not fixed the problem.
It is interesting that Xbox Mahjong and Solitaire icons and programs are not affected.
I was able to open the Store, but there is nothing useful there to help me.
?? What is the name of the program that runs the exe files, and where I should find it ??
It is not in Windows/System 32.
Thanks in advance fir your help
TonyH
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