Why cant i open shockwave files (.swf) when i have both flash and shockwave?

Question

i have both flash and shockwave but when i try to click on and open .swf files they dont open why. My windows Xp i up to date so i know its not that

Answer 1

Do you have the Active X components of Flash & Shockwave installed?

If you don't, they may not work properly.