IT Queries: Computer problems answered

I am using windows 7.  Everytime I open a file that has winrar file in it I get this error message “COM surrogate has stopped working” I have searched Microsoft and the web and have not found a solution to the problem. I have just updated to the lastest winrar, but this didn’t fix the problem. I don’t know what else to do.

I did read to in file options to turn on always show icons,never thumbnails, but because i am into photography this does not suit me. I also tried turning off the com surrogate, but that did not work either. Unlike most people I only have the problem when using winrar.

The “COM surrogate has stopped working error” is related to the way Windows shows files, particularly images and movies.

If a program wants to preview files when you look at them isn’t compatible with your version of Windows then it will cause this crash.

You can change the Windows7 settings by opening the Default Programs applet by following Microsoft’s Change which programs Windows uses by default instructions and setting program access and computer defaults back to the original Microsoft settings.

If it is WinRAR causing the problem, the first step is to completely remove it by going into “Programs and Features” and running the Add/Remove Programs function.

Once you’ve uninstalled the program, restart the system and check the COM surrogate problem has gone away. If it hasn’t you need to start considering what other programs are causing the error, these can include Nero and Adobe products along with any video and picture viewer programs.

When you identify which program is causing the problem you need to then consider whether you should continue using that application. If you choose to use it, then make sure you have the latest, Windows 7 compatible version of the program.

During the installation you should be asked if you want to run a custom install. Select that option and in the associated files list that appears only select archive files such as ARJ, LZH, TAR, GZ, ACE, UUE, BZ2, JAR, ISO, 7Z, Z. Take the ticks off other options such as cab and db.

This should clear the problem. If the error reappears after reinstalling the program, you’ll need to contact the software developer.

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