Run-Time Error Message When You Start WordPad

When you start Microsoft WordPad, you may receive the following error message: If you start WordPad by using the Run command, you may receive the following error message:

This issue can occur if the WordPad.exe file is damaged.

WARNING: If you use Registry Editor incorrectly, you may cause serious problems that may require you to reinstall your operating system. Microsoft cannot guarantee that you can solve problems that result from using Registry Editor incorrectly. Use Registry Editor at your own risk.


To resolve this issue, follow these steps:

1. Click Start, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click Add/Remove Programs, and then click the Windows Setup tab.
3. In the Components box, click Accessories, click Details, and then click to clear the WordPad check box.
4. Click OK, and then click OK.
5. Use Regedit to delete the following registry key:
   HKEY_Current_User/Software/Microsoft/Windows/Currentversion/Applets/WordPad
6. In Control Panel, double-click Add/Remove Programs, and then click the Windows Setup tab.
7. In the Components box, click Accessories, click Details, and then click to select the WordPad check box.
8. Click OK, click OK, and then close Control Panel.

For additional information about how to use the Add/Remove Programs tool, click the article number below to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base: