/ Command Failed to Execute Error

Command Failed to Execute Error

When I go to open an attachment it says, command failed to execute. Susan Keenan

When attachments don’t open, several reasons can be responsible. In some cases, the file can be so large that you don’t have enough free memory to complete the task. If this is the case, you can free up some temporary memory by deleting your Internet cache, deleting old files and pictures, and removing unwanted programs.

You can also add new memory to your computer. It is also possible that a virus has snuck onto your computer or the attachment that you are trying to open contains a virus and your computer is trying to prevent you from opening it. You’ll need to do a bit of troubleshooting to determine the problem.

Command Failed to Execute Error: Unsafe File List

If you have your computer set to the option that does not open suspicious attachments, this can result in the “command failed to execute” message. If you know that the attachment is a safe one that does not contain a virus, then you can switch this setting. However, you need to understand that doing so could lead to a problem in the future with suspicious email attachments opening and executing a virus.

Troubleshooting Opening Attachments that Won’t Open: Changing Unsafe File List

Follow these directions or some variation of them to change the option for the Unsafe File List.

Open up your Outlook Express application.
Open the option for “Tools.”
Select the selection for “Options.”
Select or click on the “Security” tab.
Clear the option that is labeled “Do not allow attachments to be saved or opened that could potentially be a virus.”
Click on the “OK” button.

Troubleshooting Opening Attachments that Won’t Open: Workarounds

Although the following options are just workarounds, they can be useful for those who are willing to try them. They are safe and easy to complete.

IE8 Users: The installation of IE8 seems to be problematic for some users leading to the “command failed to execute” and problems opening attachments. The fix here is to uninstall IE8 and go back to using IE7. Not much of a fix, I agree but when you are desperate and this is all you have, go for it.

All Users: In most cases, you can save the attachment and then try to open it to get around problems such as this.