# Image Creator Component - setup.exe not running

Last Updated On: 10 Nov 2025

When you download and launch the Image Creator Setup.exe installer for OS Deployer, it fails to launch or appears unresponsive. The two primary root causes are file-blocking by Windows security and corrupted Windows registry entries for .exe file associations. This guide explains how to fix both.

## Problem

Manually downloaded image creator setup.exe is not running.

## Cause

1. Windows security restrictions in the target computer have blocked the downloaded file - setup.exe from running.
2. Corrupted or Incorrect registry settings

## Resolution

### Check if the file is blocked

1. Right-click on the ZIP file, and open Properties.
2. At the bottom of the dialog, click the Unblock button → Apply → OK. Then extract and run setup.exe again.

### Change registry setting to default

This issue can also occur if a third-party application has changed or corrupted default registry settings. Ensure the following:

1. Click Start and type regedit in the search box.
2. Right-click Regedit.exe and select Run as administrator.
3. Navigate to the following keys and verify/correct their default values:

```text
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.exe
Default value should be: exefile
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\exefile  (This is a core system registry key that defines how executable files (.exe) are handled by Windows.)
Default value should be: "%1" %*
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\exefile\shell\open
Default value should be: "%1" %*
```

4. Close Registry Editor and restart the computer.
5. Try running the setup.exe again after these steps.