Windows 7: Adobe Reader takes control over program files!

I had Adobe Reader version 9.1 (Dutch) running on my brandnew Acer Netbook Aspire 1410 with Windows 7 Home [64 bits]. Worked well for a while. At a certain moment (cause unknown) ALL my program files (*.exe) were given the Adobe icon and starting them starts up Adobe Reader, with the error message 'This file doesnt have a program associated wiuth it for performing this action. Please install a program or, if one is alreadyt installed, create an association in the Default Programs control panel'.
My only option was to uninstall Adobe Reader through the Control Panel. Then the *.exe files worked properly again.
I searched for a specific [64 bits] version of Adobe Reader, couldnt find it, found some messages saying the usual version works for 64 bits too, downloaded the newest version 9.3.1 [English] - but: same result, same problem.
Questions:
- any idea what could have triggered this very strange problem?
- why wasnt the problem there right from the beginning?
- does it have to do with my 64 bits version?
- as long as I have to keep Adobe Reader uninstalled, is there any (free) alternative to recommend, so that i can continue reading *.pdf's?

Just install the Adobe reader, then go to default programs, and look for the .exe file. Unselect adobe reader as the default program to run theese files, and you should be good to go.

Sorry, find adobe reader on the list on the left, then click on the "Choose defaults for this program" and unselect .exe from them

Foxit Reader - Free software downloads and software reviews - CNET Download.com

Hi, Welcome to SF,

You could try this article to restore the Default associations Default File Type Associations - Restore

Hope this helps,
Captain

but the *.exe is not in the file association list. should apparently ALWAYS trigger the program activation and not changeable.
kept adobe reader uninstalled and installed foxit reader, recommended by others as lighter, faster, fewer problems. thanks

Glad you got it sorted out.

I second that!

I just noticed that Foxit Reader now installs a toolbar made by Ask... Those *&#$?'s toolbar is everywhere right now.

Anyways, I suggest you remove it (the toolbar) as soon as Foxit's installation is done.

You don't have to accept the toolbar when installing.

i already installed it - without the damned toolbar - why do developers always assume we all want 7698745529 toolbars on our screen?