FULL PRODUCT VERSION :
java version "1.6.0_27"
Java(TM) SE Runtime Environment (build 1.6.0_27-b07)
Java HotSpot(TM) Client VM (build 20.2-b06, mixed mode, sharing)

ADDITIONAL OS VERSION INFORMATION :
Microsoft Windows [Version 6.1.7600]

EXTRA RELEVANT SYSTEM CONFIGURATION :
64 bit OS

A DESCRIPTION OF THE PROBLEM :
After uninstalling java 1.7 and installing 1.6 u27 the JNLP files are no longer associated with java webstart
it is still possible to run them through the command line when specifying the path to javaws followed by a link to the JNLP file.

REGRESSION. Last worked in version 6u26

STEPS TO FOLLOW TO REPRODUCE THE PROBLEM :
Use a Windows 7 64 bit OS
install java 1.7
uninstall java 1.7
install java 1.6u27
try to open a JNLP file


EXPECTED VERSUS ACTUAL BEHAVIOR :
EXPECTED -
the JNLP file is opened by javaws
ACTUAL -
a windows "open with" dialog appears prompting the user to select which program to use when opening the file.

REPRODUCIBILITY :
This bug can be reproduced always.

CUSTOMER SUBMITTED WORKAROUND :
Manually create the file association