Desktop

Ask something
Discussion Locked

Dat Files Changed to wrong file type

0 helpful
9 replies

by dralabpc

Closed to new repliesThis discussion is closed. It stays readable, but it takes no new replies.
I had a virus and after removing the virus, all of my dat files have been associated with another application program on my computer. How do I change them back to the DAT file type?

9 replies

by stephen.berry

To re-associate a particular file extension with a particular program: Goto Windows Explorer, click on Tools, Folder Options, File Types tab, find the association with the dat extension and edit the actions back to your antivirus software.

If you are uncomfortable with this, simply un-install and re-install the software and it should re-associate itself correctly. Naturally you will then want to run the live update feature to re-update your software to the latest definitions.

by dralabpc

Thanks for your input. I tried that already, but I could not find a program with the Dat extension. Also, there are about 350 Dat files on my computer that are part of various programs and they should say "Dat File" under "File type", but they say "ABC DataAnalyzer 1.1 Chart". In fact these programs should not be associated with a program, because they are part of various other programs and only need to state "Dat File" under "File Type". So it looks like I will have to reinstall all of myprograms. My Norton 2002 will not reinstall properly. I have resolved to install a new hard drive and start over. Unless someone has a better answer.

by mtrahern

If you know where the .dat files are located on your computer, try right-clicking one, while holding down the left shift key, and choose "open with"...scroll down until you see your anti-virus software and choose it. If it works, do it again, but this time check the box that says always use this program.

by dennis_calkins

You did not say what virus you had on the computer. If you know the name of the virus you should be able to download a tool from Symantec's site. Sometimes the tool will fix any issues with file nameing, somtimes, as with the loveletter virus it will not. If not your stuck with formatting the H.D. Do a scan of the H.D. with Norton if it finds a virus make a note of the type and look for a solution at www.symantec.com

by ananthap

Movei CDs use DAT format. BUT what is still probably more common is to use DAT extension for text files. So decide the primary need and set the default to the required program. (By right clicking with etc).

Note that:
Text files are usually opened with "Notepad" and movies with your favourite media playes.

For the non-standard (for you) need, simply right click the file and use Open With.

Hope this helps.
End of mail.

This discussion is closed to new replies.