I cannot open any files in Windows 10 by double clicking. Why?

[Windows Central Question]

I get a message that the wait operation has timed out. I have to right click, select open with and then choose a program. I cannot open the gmail link on my desktop by double clicking. I have to open Chrome, then open gmail. I cannot open pdfs, word docs or photos by double clicking. Whats up?

 

[ttsoldier]

Sounds like something is corrupted. I would recommend resetting windows 10 if you're not too much on the technical side. It's the easiest and safest way to go.