I'm having problems with start->run cmd

when i type it and hit the return key, it opens up as cmd.com
(same happens with regedit,ping) and throws up a message saying this system file is not suitable for MS-DOS.

It works fine when i use cmd.exe though.

how do i change this .com extension back to the normal .exe?

How did it get changed in the first place?

[unbidden]

I believe you have the Alcan worm.

Run up to date virus and spyware scans.

Below are links to get you started.

Panda anti-virus free scan

AdAware se Free

Spybot Search + Destroy

[mike5532g]

If it's a 16 bit subsystem error, try

http://www.visualtour.com/downloads/

XP Fix.exe

[Claymore]

Here's a fix from the Experts Exchange. Scroll down to the "Accepted Answer":
link

Solved!

I see that the files cmd.com, ping.com are all 'deeply' hidden and can't be seen even if we check 'show all hidden files' option...

Thanks

but...how did they all get into the system in the first place?