Hi,
I think I have a virus as I can't open anything. It keeps saying windows cannot open the file and asking me to search the web or select from the list. I have tried to run anti-virus software and download things to help from Microsoft etc but I acn't open these either. Don't know what to try next?

You can try Windows's Restore feature and try restoring your PC to a time before the problem has occurred if you have system restore points available.
Boot into Safe Mode first. Then,
Start menu > Accessories > System Tools > System Restore
Right-click System Restore and click Run As Administrator.
Choose a day and time prior to your problem and restore to it.

Thanks. I have tried. It still says it can't open when I get to system restore. Any other suggestions?

It sounds like you have a virus. If I remember this is a joke type probably its in your startup folder. Boot in safe mode and look at your startup folder and see if there is anything that you didn't put there and delete it. Reboot and do a virus scan. If you can't do one then go to HouseCall v6.5 - ITW Trend Micro USA
And do a scan from there.

What it sounds like is something has changed your associations. What files have you tried to open (EXE, DOC, JPG, etc.)?

What version of Windows do you have? Did you previously have an anti-virus on your PC?

I did previously have anti virus software. I think they are all exe files. Can't even open word documents etc. I have tried running in safe mode and doing system restore but it is exactly the same. I have tried using last known configuration that worked but even that didn't solve the problem!

Microsoft XP by the way.

Did you keep your A/V up to date?

Lets try one thing. Can you open Windows Explorer or My Computer? If so, try going to Tools>Folder Options, then File Types. See what it says for Doc files or any file types.

Not sure what I am looking for, but I can open my comp and get to file types

So what does it say is the program associated with file types (other than EXE) that you can't open?