A Google search reveals that the file extension was probably changed by ZoneAlarm for security purposes. I don't know if that means it scanned positive for some virus or trojan, or if it just does that regardless. At any rate, assuming what you have is a DOS program and not a Windows program, a .ZL9 extension won't work for an executable in DOSBox. You will need to change the extension, most likely to .EXE, or possibly .COM (if the first 2 bytes of the file are the letters "MZ", it should be .EXE as a general rule).

How would I change the file? When I try to change it, it keeps the .zl9 extension.

Well, I suggest you look/ask for help where you got the app that's forcing those extensions onto executables. I would not tolerate that kind of thing on my OS... there are plenty of active scanning programs and such that don't require files to be renamed. Maybe there is a way you can make exceptions.

I finally figured out how to get the extension changed. I think my security program changed them.
I cant contact the person who made this program for me because he has passed away and there are very few copies of this left. I want to save the program!
Anyway I have the files changed to exe but now I can't run them. It come sup saying that I need to change to 32 bit or 64 bit version of the program, not sure if I will be able to use this with Vista? It worked fine in XP.

not sure if I will be able to use this with Vista? It worked fine in XP.

Ask microsoft, they are said to have experience with vista.

Ferrah wrote:

Anyway I have the files changed to exe but now I can't run them. It come sup saying that I need to change to 32 bit or 64 bit version of the program, not sure if I will be able to use this with Vista? It worked fine in XP.

How did you try to start it? Directly, or through DOSBox?

I tried with DosBox

And?

Thank you very much! I finally figured out the problem!

How?. Posting here could help others having the same issue.