Explore topic-wise InterviewSolutions in .

I took my laptop home from work.  I am using a network setting  at the office.  I TRIED to use the laptop on my dial up at home, and found NO modeum.  Now what?

Also, the reason that I took it home was; I can dial out and it will connect to the internet, but it will not connect to the WEB site.  It gives me a "This page cannot be displayed".  Can you advise?Check your TCP/IP settings and configure them according to the PROVIDER's instructions. Quote

I took my laptop home from work.  I am using a network setting  at the office.  I tried to use the laptop on my dial up at home, and found NO modeum.  Now what?

Also, the reason that I took it home was; I can dial out and it will connect to the internet, but it will not connect to the web site.  It gives me a "This page cannot be displayed".  Can you advise?

How do I get Win 98 SE to read .txt files again? I deleted ACD See, & since then can't get Win to read .txt filesWhat's ACD.ACD is a crappy image editing or viewing program.

Quote

can't get Win to read .txt files

I thought perhaps a few tips might help.......

GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING

Symptom: The system's fan is whining loudly.

Solution: A loud fan can be the result of a number of minor problems. The common cause is dirt. A dirty fan, clogged with dust, is highly inefficient and works harder to handle its cooling duties. As the fan struggles to cool the system, it produces the whirring sound. A quick cleaning should do the trick. If the fan is new and you're still hearing a loud whirring, your problem may be "ambient heat." You need to operate your PC in a cool environment. Many PCs get louder as they get hotter, with the fans spinning faster to keep the system cool. Be certain your PC is clean and cool and you'll run trouble-free.

Symptom: Your PC spontaneously reboots.

Solution: A long-standing mystery solved! If rebooting occurs in a PC that you've just built, try re-seating your CPU's heat sink. Make sure you're using the proper thermal gel and spread it evenly between the heat sink and the processor. If inadequate amounts of gel have been applied or low-quality gel has been used, the system will reboot as the CPU heats up---and builds in the uneven "pockets" created by the uneven gel. Also: check to see if you've removed the protective sticker on the bottom of the heat sink (don't laugh---it happens!). And by all means, make sure your motherboard supports the CPU you're installing. If these steps check out and you're still experiencing spontaneous reboots, your problem may be one of the following: Overclocking: We do not RECOMMEND overclocking. Memory Timing: The fix? Go into your BIOS and set your memory on "Auto" or at a more conservative setting and see if the reboot problem goes away. Oudated BIOS: Make sure you have the latest BIOS for your board. You can determine if your CPU is supported by browsing the BIOS updates of the motherboard's manufacturer. If you're running a Pentium 4 Extreme Edition and notice that it's only supported with the latest BIOS updates, you may have located the problem! Inadequate Power: If you've made significant component upgrades---with the exception of the power supply---your power supply may be overstressed or failing due to heat or age. Finally, if you've migrated your OS and other files from machine to machine to machine, it may be time for a clean install.

Symptom: Your Optical Drive (CD or DVD) Runs Slower and Slower....

Solution: Again, the villain may be dirt, since optical drives rarely "slow down" on their own. Optical drives either work---or they don't, so a mechanical problem is ruled out. What most likely has happened is that your dive has accumulated a layer of dirt or dust. Here's the fix: You'll need a can of "spray air" (available everywhere). Eject the disc tray and spray into the drive with short bursts---and be sure to spray at an angle so the dust will be expelled out of the drive. Do not spray continuously or turn the spray can upside down (doing so could introduce moisture into the drive. Repeat this process a few times, then try test the drive.

Symptom: I have four pieces of RAM installed and I'm pretty sure that at least one is bad. What's the best way to test RAM for errors?

Solution: Since you have four pieces of RAM, you can install just one DIMM in your motherboard at a time and run the machine until it crashes. This isn't a completely reliable way to test RAM, though. As an alternative, download Memtest86 (www.memtest86.com) and create a bootable CD. Memtest86 does a fair job. It runs several test patterns through the RAM. If a piece of RAM passes these tests, swap it with another DIMM and continue your tests. Even better than Memtest86 is Ultra-X's RAM Stress Test Pro 2, which is a self-booting diagnostic plug-in card. This card uses a comprehensive set of test patterns to assess your memory, and we've found that it finds bad pieces of RAM that other testers miss. Keep in mind that it may not actually be a stick of RAM that's bad. The problem may in fact be a bad DIMM slot. If all four pieces of RAM pass the test, you may have to rerun them in each individual slot on your motherboard. Finally, your motherboard's BIOS usually sets RAM timing by reading the SPD setting on the module. If the SPDs are set too aggressively (we've seen this), it may cause problems. You should consider going into the BIOS and manually tweaking settings such as your CAS latency to a more conservative setting.

More tips...

Symptom: Sometimes when I play games for a long time, my computer just randomly crashes to the desktop.

Solution: Random crashes in games can be the result of a few different problems. Typically, it's a heat issue, a driver issue, or a problem with the game. The first thing you should do is check for a patch for any of your games that are crashing. It seems like common sense, but frequently we receive complaints from people trying to run games that have been patched three or four times. Once you've updated your games, you need to update your videocard and chipset drivers. Get you videocard driver from the company that manufactured your card's chipset, either ATI or nVidia. You should also check for newer drivers for your motherboard's chipset whenever you update your videocard drivers. Outdated motherboard chipset drivers are one of the main causes of general system instability. If you've updated all your hardware, but are still having problems, you may have a heat issue. Open your case and look at your AGP card. Is there another card right below it? If there is, you should consider moving that card to another slot. A card directly below a high-end videocard can disrupt AIRFLOW enough to cause overheating issues with today's top-of-the-line videocards. If freeing the neighboring slot doesn't alleviate your problem, try adding a fan that fits into one of your PCI slots and exhausts hot air from the bottom of your PC.

Symptom: My new Athlon XP system is telling me that my brand-new Athlon XP 3200+ is only any Athlon 2200+!
Solution: It sounds like your motherboard's bus speed is set incorrectly. You see, you probably bought and Athlon XP 3200+ that runs on a 400MHz bus (which is actually a double-pumped 200Mhz bus). For the motherboard to recognize the CPU as a 3200+, the CPU has to run at 2.2GHz, or 2,200MHz. The CPU reaches that speed only if the motherboard is set to an 11 multiplier and with a 200MHz bus. So, 11x200=2200. If your motherboard's frontside bus is set to run at 166MHz, the CPU would boot at 1833MHz. It's no coincidence that this is the same speed at an Athlon XP 2200+. To correct this, reboot your machine and go into the BIOS by hitting DEL or F2 during boot. Look for the section that lets you change the bus speed. Hopefully we're right and it's set for 166MHz. Increase it to 400MHz, save the settings, reboot and you should have a 3200+.
Symptom: My optical drive has suddenly slowed to a crawl reading discs, and it refuses to read some discs.
Solution: Optical drives usually don't expire gradually; most simply stop working without so much as a death rattle. It's much more likely you drive's lens has accumulated a layer of dust.
Get yourself a can of compressed air at the local geek emporium, and eject the disc tray. Spray into the drive with quick, short bursts at an angle (so the dust is more likely to be expelled from the drive). Do not spray continuously or with the can upside down, because that could introduce moisture into the drive. Give the dust a minute to settle, and spray the innards again.
Symptom: I just bought a new PC, and now my PocketPC refuses to connect via the USB port.
Solution: This is a common issue. You'll have to buy a new PocketPC. Just kidding. This problem occurs if you plug your PocketPC in before installing ActiveSync. Check the Device Manager by right-clicking My Computer, selecting Properties, clicking the Hardware tab, and then selecting Device Manager. If you see an Unknown Device entry, delete it by right-clicking it and selecting Uninstall. Restart you PC, install your PocketPCs drivers from the manufacturer's disc, and plug it in again.
PC AUDIO AND MP3S
Symptom: I'm only getting sound out of one speaker.
Solution: This usually happens when the mini-jack coming out of your speakers us not fully plugged into the soundcard input slot. Reversed polarity of a speaker can cause some of the weirdness as well, so make sure the positive terminal on the actual speaker is connected to the positive terminal on the subwoofer (or wherever the speakers connect to the amplifier), and vice versa for the negative terminals. One FINAL possibility: Pet owners should routinely check speaker cables for teeth marks and replace the cables when Mr. Bigglesworth eats through the outer layer.
More of the same ......

Symptom: The remote control for my PC speakers suddenly stopped working the other day. I installed new batteries but it still won't work. Is it dead?
Solution: Probably not. It sounds more like a sleeping remote. To wake it up, simply remove the batteries and press every button on the remote in a sequential order. Then just replace the batteries and your remote should work again.

Symptom: Sometimes I'll rip a worn CD, only to find later that some tracks have skips in them.

Solution: This is a common problem, and can be easily fixed. Go to www.exactaudiocopy.de (don't worry-the site is in English). We've brayed about Exact Audio Copy before, and here's why: When Exact Audio Copy rips audio it double-checks that data for accuracy, and if it detects any discrepancies between the original and the rip, it will extract the data again and again until it has determined that the result precisely matches what's on the disc. If the error correction is unable to compensate for a flaw in the disc and the data is irretrievable, Exact Audio Copy will let you know, sparing you from unpleasant surprises later. Oh, and did we mention Exact Audio Copy is free? Life is good.
Symptom: My Creative Labs Jukebox Zen Xtra keeps crashing. Is it broken?

Solution: If a single bit in an MP3 file is out of place or errant for any reason, it can make many MP3 players lock up or crash. You'll know this is the case if your player crashes on the same track every time. If so, you'll have to remove or re-encode the track. If an errant track is not the problem-you'll know this is the case because it won't crash on the same song/s-you may be able to rehabilitate your player be reformatting the drive. You'll find instructions at the Creative Labs web site. Go to Support, click Portable Audio, and select "Troubleshooting the Nomad Jukebox 3 as a Standalone Unit" (also known as Solution ID #7392). Reformatting will delete the contents of your player, of course, so make sure you have all your music backed up before you go for it.

Symptom: I can burn audio CDs and listen to them on my PC, but my portable CD player and car stereo can't recognize them.

Solution: Commercial CDs are literally stamped from extruded masters, creating pits and lands that CD players have been designed to read. Burned CD, HOWEVER, create darkened areas that mimic the pits and lands of commercial CDs. As you've noticed, not all players-especially older ones-can deal with these kinds of discs. But all is not lost. Your best bet is to burn at a slower speed, 4x or below. This creates slightly more prominent differences between the burned and non-burned areas. If you have a Plextor burner, though, you have an even better option. The bundled Plex Tools includes VariRec, which allows you to subtly alter the burning strength of your optical drives laser. By experimenting with various discs and burning strengths, you will almost certainly find the right combination for your CD player. VariRec is supported by both Nero and Easy CD Creator. We've used it to make audio CDs playable on otherwise uncooperative boom boxes.
Nice piece of text.dsl.....and time well spent.......hope someone looks at it...........and may LEARN abit more......

Keep on trucking.......as they ust to sayWhat is a "tweek"?

I have received the following errors:
   ERROR starting program. A required DLL file. WINSPool.DRV, was not FOUND.
    Error loading powrprot(f).dll  One of the library files needed to run this application cannot be found.
    When i try to run my spy or ad-aware it tells me i am missing mshtml.dll and it will not open.

Any suggestions will be very helpful Please
Thank youWell its just means that for some funny reason some .dll are missing or corrupt when running an application. Try reinstalling the application that should FIX your problem. As for your other .dll is it a device?Thank you for your response.
I am confused about reinstalling the application. What are you referring to?
I also don't understand the question you ask. You ask if it was a device and I don't have a clue.
Sorry about being so LACK of knowledge.
Thank YouDevice driver

More commonly known as a driver, a device driver is a group of files that enable one or more hardware device to communicate with the computers Operating System.  
Fritz if you are new to this try hitting home at the TOP of page. Here you will find all kind of questions and answers. Good place to start.

I have Windows XP and I want my email to remember my password, but it will not.  When prompted for the password, the remember password box is checked.  What else can I do?  Is there something I can change in the REGISTRY?Reset internet explorer BACK to defaults mode

Tools/internet options/advancedThat did not work.  I don't know if this matters, but this is my computer at work.  I go into accounts and enter my password there, but it still will not remember it.Seek help from the ntec at work.........or the admin......some may have removed the options of saving passwords.Go to Tools->Internet Options->Content

There you will find Auto Content.

Check if its enabled or not.That did not fix the problem.  Thanks though.Are the cookies enabled on your system.I think they are.  My security level is set to Medium.  Is there anything else I can check?This works for Outlook Express...I'm not sure about just Outlook though.......give this a try.......
1) open your email
2) click on tools, then
3) click "accounts"....under the "mail" tab, highlight your account and click on properties
4) Under "incoming Mail Server" you should have your account nake and probably no password inserted
5) Go ahead and put your password in and then click "Save password" right below it

**Do not click or put a check mark in "Log on using Secure Password Authentication".....
Outgoing mail server should be unchecked also....

Hope this help......I have done this many times.  I enter the password under accounts/mail/properties., the remember password is checked then I click apply, close everything and when I open my email it will promt me for the passowrd.  The remember password box is checked on that screen also???Hopefully this will help you out. I am assuming you have a logon and password for your workstation and then a different one for Your outlook. As long as you are using exchange on the server end this will work. Have your USER name and password for your email changed to the same as your Windows logon. The problem is you are making a secure connection with the exchange box and it doesnt matter how often you check the box to save it is always going to want you to Authenticate to the email server.I am looking for help with Outlook Express.  This is my first visit.

I need to print out 3 different "groups"  All I get are the names, no email addresses.  I need both.  Would you have an answer.  If I could print the block of information that APPEARS when you hover the mouse over the groups name, that would help.  But, it goes away when the mouse is moved.I am looking for help with Outlook Express.  This is my first visit.

I need to print out 3 different "groups"  All I get are the names, no email addresses.  I need both.  Would you have an answer.  If I could print the block of information that appears when you hover the mouse over the groups name, that would help.  But, it goes away when the mouse is moved.

Hey can u help me out my computer with windows XP wont work. I start my computer up, it loads with the weird windows xp sign (blue dots going past) and when its done that THATS it! just a black screen! I cant get on its like my windows is totally missing. Also when i turn my compy on i get a choice of what to do cos windows says that there has been an error i can either start windows normally, start with last know good settings and sum other choices which i dont know what they are. They still dont work though i hate my computer, can you help me out on what to do.Well you can either reformat your computer and start all over. Or you can try o use the recover in the Windows XP CD.. Does safe mode get you anywhere? What did you do to get it messed up in the FIRST place?Gee Adam I don't know what t tell you but hang in there  someone useful and kind will get back to you.  

As for Mac what is with you anyway!  Adam is asking for help and you respond with an attitude like that!  Why don't you get a life and stop responding to the posts if you can't be HELPFUL!!!Do you have the original Windows CD and the 25 digit code to activate it? Have you ever loaded an operating system before? Can you get into safe mode as mentioned above? Are you able to get to the recovery console?

Once we know this we can advise. Hang in there.You are probably getting the 'choice' screen because you didn't shutdown windows correctly. (Understandably)

Is your video cable plugged in securely?Adam ~ I know how frustrating a computer can be at times and those who make light of your situation experienced problems themselves at some time in their computing experience. Here are two articles that will help you to reload Windows...any problems repost.


http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;315341



http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;316941
Nancy O, being a registered member Mac can edit his posts (he got you). You should register to level the playing field.  
Not nice Mac.  :-/"when i turn my compy on i get a choice of what to do cos windows says that there has been an error

i can either start windows normally, start with last know? good settings and sum other choices which i don't know what they are.

They still don't work though i hate my computer, can you help me out on what to do.?"

Really? Quote

Gee Adam I don't know what to tell you but hang in there someone useful and kind will get back to you.  

As for Mac, what is with you anyway!  Adam is asking for help and you respond with an attitude like that!  Why don't you get a life and stop responding to the posts if you can't be helpful?

As for Mac what is with you anyway!  Adam is asking for help and you respond with an attitude like that!  Why don't you get a life and stop responding to the posts if you can't be helpful!!!

Nancy O, being a registered member Mac can edit his posts (he got you). You should register to level the playing field.  
Not nice Mac.  

My problem is, I have a new system with two hard DRIVES. Don't ask why/how, but I now have XP loaded onto both drives (not what I wanted). My C drive version is setup and works great WRT connecting to email/internet etc. The second version which resides on my 200G E:drive is of no use and I really wanted this drive to be empty and used for data storage only.

How do I go about removing this. I'm concerned that I may accidentally remove XP off the drive I want and/or screw up things worse than I already have. Help?!!Geoff Wickstrom......ok ...here's what to consider.......
go to the control panel and click on ...Administrative Tools , then SELECT Computer management , then disk management , then hi-lite disk E: ......then select format .....and it will be wiped .

dl65  Thanks You may need to edit your boot.ini file now...

Control panel, System, Advanced, Startup and Recovery Settings, Edit ... the boot.ini file so it looks like...

[boot loader]
timeout=10
default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
[operating systems]
multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP Professional" /fastdetect

OR...

[boot loader]
timeout=10
default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
[operating systems]
multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition" /fastdetect

IF... you have installed the Recovery Console on your boot drive there will be an additional line...

C:\CMDCONS\BOOTSECT.DAT="Microsoft Windows Recovery Console" /cmdconsThanks for the tip on removing the dual boot residual. For some reason though, my system won't boot up correctly. It stalls in the boot system with the message:

Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt:
\system32\hal.dll.
Please re-install a copy of the above file.

Any thoughts or suggestions? Thankfully I have a work laptop I'm able to continue on, but any suggestions would be great!  HAL.DLL

Or use the BootIniEdit bootdisk to re-edit the boot.ini file (FOLLOW the link below) if your Windows XP is not installed on partition (1)

If you Google for HAL.DLL you'll find that a LOT more information is available.

Upon removal of a second INSTANCE of XP, my system no longer boots up: missing hal.dll file? Anyhow, I've tried the RECOVER method, but have no idea what I set as the administrator password (must START remembering these kinda things). Anyhow, I'm thinking my only option is to simply reload windows over what's already there.

If I do this what data am I likely to lose. My documents files? MS Outlook email? Internet favorites?

Anyone have any other SUGGESTIONS to help me through my stupidity  Cross reference HAL.DLLWell you could always install to the E: drive again just to be able to see what is going on on the other drive and make sure that everything is there.

When you are sure that you can BOOT to the C: drive you could always ... erase the E: drive again.  Take a look at these two MS articles: reloading Windows XP...I'm sure they will help.


http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;315341



http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;316941
Thanks problem solved

I have a small white block at the top LEFT most corner of the SCREEN. When I CLICK on it and pull it out it looks like a piano key. Can't delete it or drag and DROP it of right click it. What is it and how do I GET rid of it?Is your computer clean?

Free online virus scan
http://www.pandasoftware.com/products/activescan.htm
Free online spyware scan
http://www.pandasoftware.com/products/spyxposer/com/spyxposer_principal.htm

Recently my computer started acting up.  It often seems to be doing something when simply sitting idle.  Also, when I click on search results (usually from google) i get TAKEN to advertisements for various products and never to the sites I actually click on.  Also, when i ctl+alt+delete, there is no explorer or systray. I don't know if this is related, but it began about the same time.  Ive run antivirus (which turned up and deleted infected FILES) and ad-aware and nothing has remedied my situation. any ideas???Jon L... Please post your issue in the correct place .......
"Computer viruses and spyware "
You will get answers there.

dl65Have you got remote access/msn messager ENABLED?or any peer to peer programs......like bearshare/blubster/kazza/etc.......what operating system .........is the next question..... Quote

Recently my computer started acting up.  It often seems to be doing something when simply sitting idle.  Also, when I click on search results (usually from google) i get taken to advertisements for various products and never to the sites I actually click on.  Also, when i ctl+alt+delete, there is no explorer or systray. I don't know if this is related, but it began about the same time.  Ive run antivirus (which turned up and deleted infected files) and ad-aware and nothing has remedied my situation. any ideas???

We'll be waiting, good luck.  I'm back with some good news and BAD. Finally, I got it to defrag in safe mode. Unfortunately I can't get it to open windows normally. It doesn't complete the loading. The icons will appear but it seems to stop loading as if it finished but nothing more happens. I went back to msconfig to try different startups but nothing happened. Sometimes the timer will CONSTANTLY run as if it's trying to load but other time it will stop. Can someone help ASAPI'm sure you all are busy but if there is anyone who can give me info in the next 10 minutes I would really appreciate it. I'm on a public computer and my time is just about up. Thanks anyoneI don't know if I made the deadline, but do you have the tools to reinstall Windows?

A Startup disk?
The original Win98 CD with 25 digit code to load it?
Any important data files backed up?
Any way to back them up if you don't REPLY yes to above?
Any experience with installing an operating system?
THe make.model of your computer as WELL as hard drive size, RAM, audio card, and video card?
A desire to learn?

If all of these are yes, we are ready to go.Did you?.....

Free online virus scan
http://www.pandasoftware.com/products/activescan.htm
Free online spyware scan
http://www.pandasoftware.com/products/spyxposer/com/spyxposer_principal.htmTimer? Sounds like you have a problem with the RAM and need to re-seat the existing module(s) and probably add more RAM to the system overall.

I have Outlook and Outlook Express installed on a Windows XP machine. Successfully imported E-mail folders and settings from Outlook Express to Outlook. But cannot import Addresses. Message says 0 of 0 addresses imported. Followed exact procedure from Outlook help. Using Outlook 2003 SP1. Suggestions?Check here the info: http://www.tntech.edu/its/pubs/Outlook/Import.htm

When I try and shut down the pc I get a box on the screen that says :
END PROGRAM-version
Ending PROGRAMS PLEASE wait, if you choose to end the program you will lose any unsaved data
To end program now, Click End Now

Program Not Responding
To return to WINDOWS and check the status click Cancel
To end the program Click End Now
What do I need to do?

It means there is a program still RUNNING, probably nail.exe.

I work in a computer lab ENVIRONMENT and have created a batch file for the students to be able to check their own IP address (for printing purposes).  I am in the process of modifying the output to make it more easily understood (for the completely computer ILLITERATE) what numbers out of their IP address they need to know.  I can't seem to figure out how to GET the ^ echoed into the file without using quotes. Can anyone tell me a trick to getting the ^ to show up without the use of quotes.Quick answer. Just double up on the carets.

echo ^^

Hope this HELPS.

I want to reinstall windows me on my computer because it has been acting so weird lately and everything I have tried has not done anything. I place the system restoration kit disk in and follow the directions(restart my computer)and a menu is supposed to come up asking if i want to reinstall windows. This window isn't coming up and I have tried everything! Please help me!Racerchick:

Is the system restoration CD for a Dell, Gateway, Compaq, HP, or some other computer?  LET us know which one.

Does the CD have a the computer manufacturer's name or logo on it, or does it have the Microsoft logo and name on it.  What do the instructions on the CD say is the way to reinstall?  

DocYou may wish to set your cdrom as first boot in bios. Quote

Racerchick:

Is the system restoration CD for a Dell, Gateway, Compaq, HP, or some other computer?  Let us know which one.

Does the CD have a the computer manufacturer's name or logo on it, or does it have the Microsoft logo and name on it.  What do the instructions on the CD say is the way to reinstall?  

Doc

...the system restoration is for a gateway computer...

Is your computer a Gateway?

it worked!! i want to thank you all for your help!

has anyone seen this error when trying to connect to other computers on the network? a few months ago I had no problem using tools like beyondexec or dameware utilities to administer pc's on the network (run remote commands, etc). Now I always get "all pipe instances are busy" when I try to connect to ANY workstation. I've tried disabling norton autoprotect on the client but STILL the same response. I'm going crazy with this! and there is no HELP to be found on google!!!Aaaah Google - see here for just one of many

Good luck

yup, I've seen that link a couple of times in during my quest...tried messing with norton many DIFFERENT ways, including turning it off completely (made sure there were no symantec running SERVICES) on the client. Still no luck!

I have a Dell 4700 - 1.256 gb  DDR2 ram - Win XP SP2 (legit) - 40 gb SATA C: (system drive) - several removable USB drives - hardwired home networking (Netgear switch)

I use most of the usually recommended monitoring TOOLS including Norton System Works, Spybot, EVEREST, etc., etc.  I defrag regularly.  I use a Classic DISPLAY for all folders and the Desktop.

Problem:  I cannot change Read-only display using the Properties Tab for any Read-only file or folder on any drive.

Example:  I select a file (or folder) and right-click to Properties - if it is LISTED as Read-only, I uncheck the box and click Apply - if it is a folder, a Confirm Attribute Changes box appears and I apply changes to folder (and contents) and click OK.

I then select the file or folder again and look at Properties and find Read-only is still checked.

Note:  the above only happens if the file or folder was found to be Read-only in Properties.  Other files and folders can be changed properly.

Effects:  other than the Properties display window, there seems to be no effect.  The Read-only problem files or folders can still be moved, deleted, etc.

I have tried disabling all monitoring, anti-spyware, firewalls, antivirus processes with no change in display problem.

I may be missing something obvious or I could have some sort of corruption in the preloaded system.

As far as I know this problem existed before I bought this PC used 3 months ago.  I have made major changes in the original hardware and added dozens of new programs.  The PC appears to work normally otherwise.

Thanks for any help/suggestions in advance!Dell:

Do you mean you cannot change the read only permissioin on the General tab or the read only permission on the Security tab of the folder properties dialog box?

DocDoc,

I cannot change the Attributes display in the General Tab.

I believe that the file or folder attributes may be changed when I change the properties, however, the display still shows Read-only.

If it helps, I can give you a snapshot.

ThanksDell:

No need for the screen shot.  There are several causes of this, so i need to ask more questions to determine which one is most likely:

Are you able to change the read only attribute on a folder on your local machine (the computer you are using right now) but just unable to change the attribute on a remote node (the other computer connected to the network)?

DocDoc,

I cannot change the Read-only attribute display for any file or folder on my Dell 4700 (using the Dell - the one I'm typing this on).

And, since you asked, I have the same problem across my network to my other PC (Sony VAIO, 300 mhz, 382 mb ram, 80 gig hd, Win ME).  IAW I cannot change the attributes on my Sony files using my Dell across the network.

When I try to modify the files on my Sony or the Dell (using the Sony) I have no problems.

ThanksDell:

Sorry for the delay (i was on the hardware discussion page).

Lets take care of the local computer problem first.

Are you logged on with an administrator account, a limited user account, or something else?

Is yours the only user account on this machine, or do you share the computer with other users? and do you see the Welcome screen where you may choose your user account or does the computer boot right to the desktop without asking for your user name and password?

Is the operating system Windows XP Home or Pro?

DocDoc,

As far as I know, I am trying to use simple home networking and I tried to set it up that way.

I believe I logon as an administrator (?) with the Dell (and the Sony too).

For the Dell, I do not get a log on screen at startup.  I access the network via My Network Places.  When I do this for the first time after boot, I get a small logon screen when I try to access my Sony.  If I access another drive or a folder on another drive on my Sony, I get another small screen for logon.

For my Sony, I do get a logon screen at startup and never have to logon again until I reboot the Sony.

For now, these are the only PCs on my simple hardwired home network.

I use Win XP Home Edition with SP2 (preloaded).  I don't have the original system or restore disc (if any).Dell:

OK, thanks for the info.  

What user name and password are you using when you logon to the other computer?

What user name are you using on the Dell? (it should appear at the top of the Start menu when you click the Start button).

While you are working on the Dell, are you unable to change the read only attribute for some folders or for all folders?

To check this out, open My Computer on the Dell, double-click Local Disk (C), right click in a blank area of the Local Disk (C) window and choose New | Foler.  

Let me know if you are able to create a new folder and whether or not you are able to change the attributes for that folder.

DocDoc,

Okay, I created a new folder on my Dell C: drive.  I opened properties for the folder and it was listed as Read-only.  I unchecked the attribute and applied the change.

When I reopened the folder properties, it was still showing Read-only.

Just for curiosity, I opened the new folder on the Dell using my Sony and checked the properties.  It showed that the folder was not Read-only!

For your other questions:

Dell - User:  USER   PW:  7173    (Workgroup:  HOME)
Sony - User:  Sony  PW:  7173    (Workgroup:  HOME)

Thanks for your help!Dell:

OK, you may be on to something, here.  Try deleting the folder you just created.  If Windows will let you delete it, then it is NOT read only.

DocDoc,

I was able to delete the new folder that showed Read-Only attribute using my Dell.

Again for curiosity, I created another folder on my Dell and set the attribute to Read-only (uncheck, then check) and I was able to delete this folder too.

DellDell:

OK, i've heard of this problem with Windows XP but never verified it was true till now.  Thanks for teaching me something new!



If you are able to modify files that are incorrectly marked as read only, then there is not a significant problem.  Try the Windows update utility (Start | All Programs | Windows Update) to see if the Microsoft website has a hot fix to correct this.

Blessings to you,
Doc
Doc,

Okay, thanks for trying.

You are right about it not being too serious, however, I still won't know via properties whether the permissions are true or not until I fix this.

I will check MS and others, and hopefully others may have some insight.

Thanks,
DellYeah, since you are obviously not the only one with this problem, my guess is Microsoft is aware of it and may have an update you may download and install to correct it.

Take it easy!
Doc

i am trying to fix my FRIENS hp LAPTOP but im cornfused???
it is the compaq nx9010 notebook. when i turn it on the screen comes up has hp invent logo and p4 logo at bottom of screen says press esc to change boot order,press f2 to enter setup ,f12 to boot from lan
when i try esc it brings up the screen that checks the ram and tells the bios info same with the f2 button but that is far as it goes just sits there saying ENTERING setup any help very appreciatedoh yeah it has windows xp floppy drive dvd cdrw combo drive as wellWhat version and SERVICE Pack of XP...Home or Professional...SP1 or SP2?

What problem was your friend having?

Support for your friend's notebook:

http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport/TechSupport/Home.jsp?lang=en&cc=us&prodTypeId=321957&prodSeriesId=321850&submit.y=7&submit.x=10&lang=en&cc=us

A couple of months ago, I lost contact with my ISP (comcast cable). Called and Tech came to house. He could not fix, but installed part of Windows XP, so now I have a copy and portions of another copy. Comcast said it was not their PROBLEM, I should not have let Tech install anything. Now, I can't install anything, get error message. In control panel, there is nothing about Windows XP (add or remove programs) Please help.
JANN75Do you have a legal copy of XP to reinstall?Yes, bought Dell Dimension already loaded plus CD's to reinstall, I guess for something like this.
JANN75This would be the time. Do you have any critical data to back up first? If not just put the CD in the drive and restart.Ok, but how do I uninstall one or the other copies that is already on there? On the COMPAQ that I had before I bought the Dell, it had a CD (came with it) that was something like the Restore program, but it would just wipe the drive clean. I don't understand DOS as how to clean up the drives. Thank you for your help.
JANN75If you have a restore CD it will wipe out the drive and reinstall everything like the DAY you got it. If you have a Windows CD, you just START the computer with that in the drive and format the drive from there, and then it will reinstall.

I have windows and my husband has LINUX i need to know how to connect his to mine to share the internet VIA serial cable if anyone can help it would be greatly APPRECIATED weve tried everything we can think of Of course you can connect 2 computers via a serial cable using
ppp, but, in this instance, why?  With such a small distance
between the 2 computers, use network cards, ethernet, and a 5-port hub.

You'll GET _much_ faster speed also.

After you get some experience with Linux, you will WANT to
move the internet connection to your linux box, and have it
serve the WinXP box.

Hi, just got a Toshiba Satellite Pro from a friend who didn't need it anymore.  Gave me his user id and password to access administrator rights, don't work.  Can't get a hold of him anymore.  GREAT computer sitting AROUND when it can be put to good use by my DAUGHTER.  Can anyone help?What version of Windows and do you have the official CD to reinstall if this can't be done?

http://www.fas.harvard.edu/computing/kb/kb0747.htmli have windows xp and no, don't have the original windows cd.Reformat.

You're GOING to need a valid license to make use of Windows XP, anyway.how do i go about reformatting?If you have another XP machine, create a reset password disk. Check windows help for how to.

hello, can anybody help me about my pc,whos automatically restart every time I connected to the internet.It says something about it was initiated by the NT AUTHORITY SYSTEM.Scan for parasites.what parasites is it?what is the best remover to get rid of it?Ad Aware, Spybot, CCleaner, AVF Free Antivirus are what you need. You can go to www.google.com enter the name and find the nearest download. INSTALL, update and run each one in that order. Let US know what you find.ok thanks, ILL let u know after i downloaded them.hello, i reformat the hard disk.after that i install XP os. the PROBLEM now is every time i boot up the blue SCREEN always shows and started to boot again.i try to boot in safemood but the problem still there. what causes this? how to deal with this..What is the message exactly on "the blue screen"?Sounds like you've missed re-installing some of your drivers.

Did you get a driver CD with this machine ? ?

patio. may be there is i miss install of driver, the only driver that i install is hp printer, and webcam. what r the other driver should i reinstall?

when i try to use windows media player i GET an error message saying

wininet.dll could not be found. reinstalling this application may solve the problem.

i downloaded wininet.dll from the internet but doesn't do anything, i STILL can't use windows media player and the mesage comes up on the internet sometimes aswell.Run sfc/ scannow from Command Line.

It repairs your DAMAGED system FILES.

Hi there

I was wondering, is it possible to run MS-DOS outside of Windows XP with access to the Hard drive files? I ask, because I have some old programs I want to test that don't run from XP, and they run wayyyyy too slowly from CMD in windows...do I have to download 6.22 or is it already installed on my PC? BTW, I have a 500mhz processor with 156mb ram which is why things run slowly in windows...I find that my CPU usage is regularly at about 30-40%, or 100% if I'm running an AV program (other than resident protection).

Thanks for any help you can give me try www.download.com

you can get the Dos 6.22 or Windows 98 BOOT disc from there. It also has a utility to convert it from a floppy to a CD...which is nice!!So it would be possible to run it outside of xp? I presume I'd need to make a boot DISK on floppy first, then change the boot order in BIOS?

Cheers for your help I don't think you would be ABLE to run pure DOS on top of XP, or underneath it. If you are formatted NTFS, definitely not. If FAT32 maybe, but it will be a LOT of work. You could do this with some sort of PARTITION management tool, like Partition Magic, but you likely could solve the problem cheaper and safer by just buying an older DOS computer.Partition Magic

Ever since I got that Linksys Wireless B nic, it seems I've been having problems with my network.

(nic is B, REST of network is g so...)

I get higher latency in CSS
I spike, disconnects for like a second every few
Laggy
Sometimes I get disconnected, and when i click the network icon, it won't even open.
Limited or No connectivity OFTEN! I just get kicked out and I get limited or no connectivity.I HIT repair and get

" Windows could not repair the problem because the following action could not be completed:

Renewing your ip address"

and I can't surf the web or anything.Pobally your router or your line is bad. Like me If I someone walks up on the stairs I lose my DSL connection and I get a

Wirless Signal

DSL connection Rate  No signal Kb/s Upload No signal Kb/s

PPP status:
Down

The best thing for you to do is first make sure your user name and password is correct. Second check the cable that plugs into the router. If the router isn't recieving any signal then you can get a limit or no connectivity. PS please check your firewall.

Repair won't work if there is a singal with your router. Try turning it off for 30 sec then turn it back on.See, the thing is, I don't really know how my network is set up (everything was just...plugged together...)...this is pretty ironic because i'm taking cisco class is school, lol.

i'll try to explain things, theres 5 computers on the network at home.

Wireless Turbo Router G

1) Laptop in basement - wireless G?
2) Computer 2, connected directly into router (guessing the router has a built in switch)
3) Computer 3, connected directly into router
4) Computer 4, wireless adapter G (netgear)
5) Computer 5, wireless adapter B (linksys) me.

so basically, everything is on G except mines but I figure it don't matter much since we don't network (or know how to for that matter), everything is connected for the internet basically.

When I had limited or no connectivity, the computers connected directly to the router were fine, the other 2 wirelesses were on.

I in no way did any network setting up so everything is just...like i said...plugged together.

So yeah...hope I get my questions answer and if I need to set anything, etc.

thxWait so when you get limited connectivity.. you only get it on some computers or all of them get the limited connectivity issue at the same time?

Which computers get limited connectivity? Does the router have a WEP key? Did you make sure the wirless are connected to your router and not someone elses?Use the wireless computer to scan for other networks nearby. You may be on the same channel (6 is common) with the others. Quote

Wait so when you get limited connectivity.. you only get it on some computers or all of them get the limited connectivity issue at the same time?

Which computers get limited connectivity? Does the router have a WEP key? Did you make sure the wirless are connected to your router and not someone elses?

I know that have recently added weight to my laptop by adding a external HARD drive to a 1.1 USP port. But now am I am getting freeze ups MUCH too often. I am running Windows ME on an 6 GB internal hard drive. I have added an Western Digital 80 GB eternal hard drive. I have become compulsive with freeing up my computer with Scan Disk, Deframg. Ant-Virus scans, deleting temp files, etc. etc. But maybe I went a little too far with over cleaning. I recently downloaded CCleaner and ran some issues and save some files that I might have had issues with. Is there something, like a file I need to fix?
    Also had had recently disable System Restore, in ORDER to obtain more space on my internal hard drive. (I was maxied out) Now that I got enough space on the Hard Drive (22 MB), I can't get System Restore to enable again. What can I do about that? Thanks for your ideas.experience suggests that if system restore starts to develop problems then your OS has become corrupt.
Do you use anything to search for spyware?

Try downloading Hijack This www.download.com and see what processes are running.Bradley:

If what you are saying is that you have only 22 MB free on a 6GB hard drive, then you do not have enough free space to run Windows.  

Try moving your My Documents folder to the new hard drive (right click on My Documents and choose PROPERTIES from the context menu; in My Documents Properties, click the move button and have Windows move the entire contents to a folder you create on the external hard drive).  

Let us know if you need more advice.

Best regards,
Doc6 GB is actually 5.6 GB binary space which is approximately 5722 MB, and you should have 15% free-space on the drive, which is 858 MB, not 22 MB

Someone please tell me what is bcupdate.exe.Where to download and how to RUN it from a:How about a google search? Just go to www.google.com and type in bcupdate.exe and PRESS enter.

I'll spot you this one:

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=bcupdate.exe&btnG=Google+Search

I have Adobe Photoshop on my home desktop.  I WOULD like to copy  files to my laptop on an ongoing basis to have a 'mirror' album on laptop.  I mapped the folder on the desktop to a drive on the laptop.  I would USE the "xcopy" command, but I only want to copy certain files (pictures).  When you EDIT a picture in Photoshop it keeps the original, and appends "_edited" to the original filename.  I only want to copy edited images, plus all originals that were not edited, because if I copied all, Photoshop would show edited and unedited pictures in laptop catalog, when I imported images.  The program I have in my head goes like this "For every file in directory, assign filename(without .jpg extension) as 'x'.  If there exists 'x'_edited, copy 'x'_edited, else copy 'x'."  It does not seem like batch file commands can do this.  Any advice on how to accomplish this elegantly?

THANKS in advance

I have an OLD gateway EV910 monitor hooked up to a 1 year old computer - windows XP. After i am on the computer for a few hours - the monitor goes blank and a message pops up - "Out of Frequency" and the message shows my HF and VF frequency is LOWER than what the operating HF and VF  frequency should be. The monitor goes to stand by after 17 seconds. If I turn off the monitor and turn it back on - the same message pops up and goes to stand by again after 17 seconds. (It shows you the COUNT down.) I then have to re-start my computer to clear it up. After running a while it does it again.Joe, try to post once .

Right click on your desktop and go to ADVANCED. Check your Screen Resolution and change it then try again.

Also check advanced in the same TAB and check monitor settings in the monitor tab.

What happens if youtry this monitor on another computer? Or another monitor on this one?That pertains to the vertical and/or horizontal frequency setting. Either the card or the monitor does not support the frequency. Use lower settings.Hit'nRun!

How do I access my sound card options. I want to change the What You Hear options, i need to know where i can find it.Control Panel/SOUNDS to add/change event sounds...

patio  i want to change it so that when I record my guitar, i can go to different tracks and It wont record over the same THING even if one track isnt onYou need to use some sort of audio software to do this. What do you have?SONAR home studio 5
Do you have an instruction manual to tell you how to do this?The stupid manual doesnt say howYou MIGHT post under the title "Sonar Home 5 QUESTIONS" or something like that under Computer Software section. If anyone uses that you would be more likely to get a response.

I'll jump right in: I am able to access the internet, but when I click on the sign on button for a service such as eBay, Yahoo e-mail, PayPal, and others I am unable to connect to the sign-on page. I get the standard page SAYING the site is unavailable. This happens REGARDLESS of wether I use IE2 or MOZILLA. I am guessing that the problem resides with a setting on my computer. Perhaps I, in my ignorance, changed a setting preventing my computer from sharing needed information with these sign-in pages which in turn prompts them to disallow the connection...? Anyone have any ideas. Please respond here as I am unable to sign in to my e-mail account or ANYTHING else.... Thanks for your help.Exactly what does the "standard page" say?Tools>Internet Options>Settings Click on "every visit to the page"  Then OK >OK. Then delete all history,cookies, and Temporary Internet files,including Offline Content.  Then try again. HAPPENED to me.MSN support responded within 1 hour with this suggestion.

Good day, I want to know why is my pc doesn't SHUTDOWN automatically after I upgrade it to winXP from win98SE.In order to turn off, you must HOLD the POWER button for a few seconds.Hope you have answers to my questions.Have you got all the latest updates? i.e. Service Pack 2.Does the computer stop responding after you select Shutdown, or can you STILL do things?

Does your task manager show any programs still running?

Will it RESPOND to a request to restart, or will it just hang after that, also?

PC specs:  AMD Duron 1.3
Kobian  KT266a FDSX
512 DDR RAM
30GB HDD

I've recently reinstalled XP Home and haven't been able to get sounds other than the odd BEEPS when there's an error or something.  No music/speech from any media as there aren't any drivers INSTALLED.  I know this can be done from my motherboard disk but up to now to no avail as Win XP informs me these are unsigned drivers - they INSTALL but with exclamation marks.  Any help would be greatly appreciated.Download & install the correct drivers for your sound device.I don't have a separate soundcard, mine appears to be onboard - will try to reinstall drivers again from my motherboard disk - I did MANAGE to do it after a reinstall last year but can't now remember how!
Barrow:

Please explain: Exactly what in Device MANAGER has an exclamation mark?  

Is there more than one exclamation mark?  

When you right click on each one with an exclamation mark and choose Properties, what does Windows indicate for the device status?

Let us know,
DocHi - there's C Media AC 97 Audio Device which is with exclamation mark.  The status is as follows:

This device cannot start. (Code 10)

Click Troubleshoot to start the troubleshooter for this device.

I've been thru the troubleshooter without results.  What's getting to me is that I know I can install the drivers, but can't remember just what to do!!!! I feel several senior moments arriving all at once.Right click that device in Control Panel/System/Device Manager and choose uninstall.
Then run the C-Media install program. It will be on the CD you recieved with the MBoard.
Ignore the not signed by MS warning in the installation.

patio.

Hi people, (I hope you can help)  

I have been having problems with my pc, in that it would not boot as it failed to recognise the keyboard being present. After taking this to a shop (I am not very hardware-confident), they said that the standard port where the keyboard plugs in is faulty, and sold me a cordless desktop that has a keyboard which connects via usb, and a mouse that connects via the ps/2 port. The good news is that the keyboard now works. The bad news is that the mouse doesn't. The mouse will work when booted in safe mode, but otherwise stalls at the beginning of WINDOWS and says that it cannot find a mouse in ps/2 port. I have tried different mice, and a ps/2-to-usb converter (to plug both the keyboard and mouse into usb drives) and this does not work either. If I boot the pc by 'Step-by-step confirmation,' it stalls when it tries to run 'msmouse.vxd' - although it also stalls if I choose not to run this.
I need help, I have spent many hours trying different combinations of keyboards/mice/startup methods with no success. I am currently considering drawing a face on the side of my pc and then punching it.How many USB ports do you have?

If you have another one, I would go for a USB mouse.

Both my keyboard, and mouse, are connected via USB ports.Thanks for replying - the problem seems to be (in my uneducated opinion) that windows is looking for the mouse in ps/2 port. I have tried using a converter and plug the mouse into a usb socket - but the same message still appears?Uninstall the mouse in control panel and reboot with the USB mouse plugged in.I have tried this, but when windows starts, a message COMES up saying that no mouse is detected in the ps/2 mouse port and one should be attached now. It also says that the computer will need to be switched off to attach the mouse.
I can't GET past this message  -  I have to reboot and then get stuck in the same place, or go into safe mode and can't do anything.If both the keyboard and mouse are wireless, you have "connect" through the receiver/transmitter. Press the connect button on the receiver first, then press the connect button on the mouse.The problem is not to do with connecting the mouse or keyboard to the receivers...it is to do with getting windows to recognise that there is a usb mouse present.
Windows starts up and DISPLAYS the message 'Windows did not detect a mouse in the ps/2 port. Please connect one now - to do so turn off your pc.' As far as I know this cannot be bypassed.
So the 2 options that RESULT from this are:
1. Boot into safe mode - the mouse doesn't work and I can't add new hardware.
2. Boot into normal mode and receive the same message as above.

I can't attach a ps/2 mouse because this port does not work.Going backk to the original post. What if you took the new keyboard/mouse back to the shop with the computer and have them show you how it is done. (If it does work - cool. If it doesn't maybe a refund or some better advice is in order.

You made it sound like this was a recent purchase.It's also possible that in order for you to run a USB mouse you might have to disable the PS2 port in the BIOS...
How new is this machine ? ?

patio.

hey, i'd say i'm intermediate level at COMPUTERS but i've had a problem setting up my extra inbox on ms outlook express

i could get it to work at HOME but i cant figure it out now i've moved to UNI and for some reason im getting my dads emails

my email was set up as an extra box on my dads acc.

i have some screenshots please help

http://www.geocities.com/bathdvd/email_general.jpg

http://www.geocities.com/bathdvd/email_servers.jpgBased on the images you provided...if your father's name is Desmond...the reason you're getting his emails is because you have your incoming server name setup with your Dad's INFO.  TRY using the username and password for your email account.And don't leave those images on the internet!

It is OK to leave your e-mail in your profile if you want, but it is unwise to post an e-mail ADDRESS in an open forum. These are easily harvested and you will get more spam than you already are. Do you really NEED more offers of Get Rich Quick schemes, prescriptions from another country, remedies for *censored* dysfunction, or LETTERS from Nigerians WANTING to share their government's WEALTH with you, a total stranger?  

Practice Safe Computing!

GX1_Man

hi guys, i would like to backup my WHOLE COMPUTER to an extern drive (of 250 gigabite), but i would like that it is possible to RECOVER my WHOLE COMPUTER within a few mouseclicks. Which  :exclamation[highlight]freeware [/highlight] :exclamation program is the best for this job?Were getting to you just need time.. I dont use any backup i just REFORMAT my computer every year. So dont feel left out.. Just hang in there alittle longer  anybode knows an idea?Impatiennt you are...
What is your OS? Why don't you use Windows Back up utility? (Start-->Programs-->Accessories-->System Tools-->Backup) Quote

Were getting to you just need time.. I dont use any backup i just reformat my computer every year. So dont feel left out.. Just hang in there alittle longer  

Impatiennt you are...
What is your OS? Why don't you use Windows Back up utility? (Start-->Programs-->Accessories-->System Tools-->Backup)

Quote

If Microsoft hadn't that many faults in their windows versions, a lot of people wouldn't have a job.

Probably only a few people would have a job in that case.  

I have Compaq Presario, Model # SR1265CL.  I run Windows XP Home.

This computer has worked fine for 5 of the 6 months I've been using it.  I started this job 6 months ago.

Then it started hanging up (freezing) at the Windows XP logo with the words, "Windows is shutting down..."  It never finishes turning the computer off.  It hangs up even during a restart.

I don't know what I did.  I have not added anything software wise in the past 6 weeks.  

I do have a HP 6210xi printer, a samsung camera, a Compaq FP 7317 monitor, a Qwest DSL modem.

How can I fix this?

Prince3333First step is to find the problem.  Currently, the leading cause of Windows XP shutdown problems is hardware incompatibility, including driver issues.

A complete list of manuals and troubleshooting guides for your PC is AVAILABLE for free download here:  http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/product?lc=en&cc=us&product=436205

-  there are known Win XP shutdown bugs that have been fixed with SP1 and later:  http://aumha.org/win5/a/shtdwnxp.php
Unfortunately there are new known shutdown bugs that have been introduced by these same service PACKS.

-  there are known hardware incompatibilities.  A list is here:  http://aumha.org/win5/a/shtdwnxp.php

If your system has worked until now, I would suspect a recent CHANGE:  hardware, software, operating system (upgrade, update, etc.), malware or a virus.

Run a good virus/malware scan.

Hopefully the above will HELP find the problem.  If you have any trouble with the processes or need more help, let us know.

Dell

All of a sudden I am getting little boxes with red x's in them when I TRY to view any of the folders on my DESKTOP, windows explorer, control panel, etc. as web page.  I've ALWAYS viewed it that way before, now it doesn't work and I cannot figure out why or how to fix it.  It also affects some things when I am online, such as the yahoo headline news on my HOMEPAGE, some ads like at the top of certain pages, and also the boxes you click on if  you are voting or trying to enter something.  

Can anybody help me?1. Start
2. Settings
3. Control Panel
4. Internet Options
5. Security tab
6. Reset all [highlight]4[/highlight] security zones to Default
 
1. Start
2. Settings
3. Control Panel
4. Internet Options
5. Privacy
6. Advanced
7. Restore [highlight]1[/highlight] Default button
 
Optional
1. Start
2. Settings
3. Control Panel
4. Internet Options
5. Advanced
6. Restore [highlight]1[/highlight] Default button

You may need to do the following as well
  
1. Start
2. Settings
3. Control Panel
4. Internet Options
5. General tab
6. Remove cookies, temporary files and history

Kudos to Raptor.

Ok check it.... Earlier my lil cousin,  was on my computer and she had someone tell her... "Add me or I'm goin' to hack"... I didn't know what to do... so I just unplugged the net... you know the ethernet wire... how can I PREVENT them from gettin 'in? Tricksta........I assume you cousin was on one of the instant messaging services ...... You should be able to block his or her user name.
I would think ...that "I'm goin to hack ya was just a idle threat "........but keep an eye on things just in case.
What program was your cousin using ?

dl65  
Use Firewall. Quote

Ok check it.... Earlier my lil cousin,  was on my computer and she had someone tell her... "Add me or I'm goin' to hack"... I didn't know what to do... so I just unplugged the net... you know the ethernet wire... how can I prevent them from gettin 'in?

"Add me or I'm goin' to hack"

I STARTED up my computer this morning after using it fine LAST night.  I am able to log into windows. Everything looks as if it loads properly, however, midway through uploading the green light remains fixed and my computer stops uploading.  It seems that computer becomes busy and makes the same repeated sound over and over again.  I am unable to open any icons on my screen.  I am unable to do control+alt+del to reboot.  The only thing that I can do is hold the power key down and restart.  
 
I have an anti-virus installed on my computer and SPYWARE software as well that I actively use.  I have a file called virus1.exe that uploads on my computer everytime it is restarted.  It has been showing up for the last couple of months. It flashes briefly in a black box on my screen (the C prompt, I belief it is called) and disapears.  It is supposedly quarantined by my anti-virus PROGRAM.  
  
I am not sure if this is somehow related to what is going on now.  Probably not.
Any ideas as to what this problem might be?  Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!!![size=14][HIGHLIGHT]DOUBLE POST ALERT[/highlight][/size]

Yes I did no HARDWARE changes ...at first....all i did was see that the system and components were working and then installed xp  simple enough you would THINK :-/thanks for all your suggestions guys and really do apreciate the effort that every one has put in and if anyone things of something LET me KNOW the windows installation is fine but what's this" bios detective". Ran it through google and came up with nothing. I assumed it was a program.....please explain!

If you have a Recovery CD from your computer manufacturer, the Recovery CD will install the Windows installation files to a folder, normally to C:\I386 or C:\Winnt\I386 or C:\Windows\I386 . Open the Windows Explorer and look for them. Make sure you have the file Winnt.exe, Winnt32.exe and EULA.txt. Each version of Windows has a different number of files and almost all the files will be compressed so they will have an underscore at the end of the file extension like "Shell32.dl_"

You can do a search for the folder I386. You will need to copy the entire folder to your CD burner. Do not change the name of the folder and do not make it a sub folder as in E:\Windows\I386 , it must be E:\I386. This folder will contain about 1000 or more files, in some cases nearly 1500 files.

The I386 Folder can be found by unhiding files and folders. (Explorer, Tools, Options, View.)

Now comes the easy part, getting the Windows CD KEY. The NT platform does not STORE the CD Key in the Registry in plain text as on the Windows 9x platform. It stores only the Product ID, which is different each time you reinstall windows. So you will need to check your computer for it. My coputer has a Windows CD Key pasted to the bottom of it. Your Recovery CD may have it on its label, or your paper work has it written somewhere.

If you have proprietary hardware or if you are not sure if you do, you should copy all your drivers to the CD as well. Most of the manufacturers use some proprietary hardware to cut costs in manufacturing. When Windows installs the hardware many times it sees that it needs a standard Windows driver like Serial.vxd. But the manufacturer's hardware may need a different driver. So they either rewrite the standard Serial.vxd or replace it with their own version of the driver once Windows installs it.

To determine which ones they are use the Device Manager. Right Click the My Computer Icon on your desktop, select Properties, click the Device Manager tab, now click on the plus sign, next to the CDROM icon. The first one should be CD-ROM. Click on the CD-ROM device(s). Now select the properties button and then the Drivers Tab. Now select Driver File Details. If the button is grayed out then there are no required drivers that you will need to copy. If not copy all the files in the window that appears after you click on the Driver File Details button. Many of these files may not be needed. But better safe than sorry.

I've got a WindowsME machine (not my machine) that I've been working on. It has been "freezing" (particularly during long periods of inactivity) as well as running slowly, and crashing more often than usual for the past few months.

The owner of said machine does not want to reformat/reinstall, and (though I thought ME came with this) his CD does not have the ability to do the "overlay" installation (where all files and settings are preserved except the Windows ones which need to be reinstalled...).

I have run a VIRUS scanner and adware removers (AVG AntiVirus, Spybot S&D, AdAware) and found the computer to be clean (dial-up connection, little to no internet USE, no 'surfing').

Anyone have any ideas for this computer? As I said, a reinstall is the LAST option as far as he is concerned (bad experience with his old tech which cost him on the upwards of $15,000).

/EDIT/
I forgot to mention, the computer has 128MB RAM and is only using appx. 20% of that on average. This computer basically runs nothing, just acts as a file server to a Win98 and a Win95 machine.Welcome to Windows ME!

Seriously, here are a few ideas -

- make sure there are no hardware issues.  RAM is adequate and not mismatched or faulty;  drives are defragged and correctly configured with up-to-date drivers and settings;  PCI, AGP, USB, etc. interfaces and drivers are installed correctly;  graphics are working correctly and are properly set for his monitor, usage and memory;  check power requirements for installed hardware and verify power supply is adequate (30% minimum margin of safety);  and run some good hardware evaluation tests (memory, processor, graphics, etc.).

- make sure there are no software issues.  Check running background and startup processes.  Remove, disable or stop unnecessary background programs (AOL, Office, MSN, Norton, etc.).  Run your malware scanners again.  Check BIOS and verify all settings.

I'd also recommend a clean OS reinstallation, but you say this is not an option?  Too bad, 'cause this can really IMPROVE things.

I'm sure there are countless other tips and tricks to improve performance.  Google for them and you will be amazed.

If you need help or more info on any of the above, let us know.

Dell Quote

Welcome to Windows ME!
- make sure there are no hardware issues.  RAM is adequate and not mismatched or faulty;  drives are defragged and correctly configured with up-to-date drivers and settings;  PCI, AGP, USB, etc. interfaces and drivers are installed correctly;  graphics are working correctly and are properly set for his monitor, usage and memory;  check power requirements for installed hardware and verify power supply is adequate (30% minimum margin of safety);  and run some good hardware evaluation tests (memory, processor, graphics, etc.).

- make sure there are no software issues.  Check running background and startup processes.  Remove, disable or stop unnecessary background programs (AOL, Office, MSN, Norton, etc.).  Run your malware scanners again.  Check BIOS and verify all settings.

That is exactly correct. I agree with everyone else that reinstallattion is the BEST option, but for hard headed people who have faith in Microsoft and not their techs, read through Trev's Tweaks, the best treatise on the subject:


http://computing.net/windowsme/wwwboard/forum/36435.html

For the holidays I received some new software, but my computer ran 98 !st edition. That wouldn't do. So my dad and I reformatted it and loaded 98 2nd Edition on to it. Everything is fine now, EXCEPT the resolution. Currently it's SITTING at 640x480, but we have a large screen, so it's extremely big and the screen is HARD to manage because of the colors. I tried to go into settings, control panel, and then display, but for some stupid reason, it won't let me change the resolution. HELP!!!!
any suggestions are much welcome and appreciated!
Tiff~You have to load the appropriate video drivers, or you get the exact symptom you are describing. It is a simple fix. If you don't KNOW the video card or the video chipset you can download Everest 9for free) to identify it. Once you know this we can point you to where you need to download drivers.

http://www.majorgeeks.com/download4181.html

What computer or motherboard make/model? And what video card? Let us know.My dad emailed the company last night I guess, and asked them for the appropriate drivers. The problem is solved!
Thanks!No problem. Thanks for posting back.

MY COMPUTER SAYS IT LOST MY PROFILE THATI"LL MAKE A TEMPORARY ONE FOR ME. should I JUST TAKE IT TO THE SHOP, it's been givin' me problems aafter problems. if anyone knows how to get into the computer itself. pleasee tell me. so I know what to do. it keeps resetin' by itself as well... that's what I noticed.. I know I gotta re-formatt now.. but I'm on my aunt's computer... Pleaaaaaaaase hurryTricksta.......  Well based on all the issues your having .....perhaps taking it to someone who knows what their doing might be the best way to go.......
I suggest this because you have been ASKED several time to tell us the info on your machine......
For example ........ make and model . What is the capacity of the hard drive ( drives ) and how much free space do you have left on these drives .

How much Ram isinstalled .

What operating system ( you may have provided this )

What did you do in the registry ?

please ANSWER the questions or we cant assist you ........... Unfortunately we dont have a resident mind reader and the forums OUIJA Board is broken .......from over use.

dl65  



lol... my bad... you got a messanger this WOULD be alot easier, so I know how to show you this and that....

As far as Ram I don't know... Computer Model...

Gateway



that doesn't help?

Tell me how to find all the info you need... I'm not actually a computer genius or else, I wouldn't be askin' for help CORRECT?

Everest Home Edition free here:

http://www.majorgeeks.com/download4181.html

If it won't run that long, try the BIOS boot screen - whatever key combination it shows at startup - before the Windows logo.

If it is a Gateway it may have a model # on the outside - 710G, etc.

Hi folks,

I have an Acer Aspire with AMD Athlon processor with XP Home INSTALLED by OEM - no disks.
The computer boots up normally until I get to the log-in page. At this stage the keyboard and mouse are
working normally. When you try to enter a user password, however, the keyboard freezes and the mouse refuses to move the cursor. Ctrl+Alt+Del fails to close down the machine.
I found by experiment that if I use the USB keyboard and mouse from another machine then I can log-in and use the computer, apparently as normal. I've tried "System restore" to no avail. I've tried booting up in safe mode, that has the same freezing effect on keyboard and mouse. I've tried to reconfigure to a previous good setting, no effect.
This all started during an update of XP from Microsoft. I downloaded the files OK and was in the process
of installing them when AVG, (free), interrupted with a virus warning. I told it to "heal" and everything
carried as normal. Only after the re-start of the computer did the fault appear. Maybe I should have
instructed AVG to wait before dealing with the virus?

*** I suspect I might have to buy my own copy of XP and install that instead, please, any ideas? ***

I've tried these already;

Scanned with Ad-aware(6.181) - 15 tracking cookies/data miners quarentined
Scanned with Spybot - clear
Scanned REGISTRY with TweakNow reg cleaner - 7 "problems" found and fixed
No virus or malware apparent.
Used MS Disk Cleanup and Scandisk and Chkdsk /r
Ran "sfc /scannow" - no effect

To my (dangerous!) ignorant mind, it seems that the PS/2 port has been affected, as this USB
keyboard/mouse works fine on the Acer and the original PS/2 keyboard/mouse works fine on the USB
machine.
Any help would be gatefully received,
Thank you in advance.
Eddie  Check that you are plugging the mouse & keyboard into the right holes.  Contact Acer about the possibility of getting a copy of the operating system you paid for as well.Remove the drivers installed for any mice or keyboards. Quote

Check that you are plugging the mouse & keyboard into the right holes.  

Remove the drivers installed for any mice or keyboards.

Check that you are plugging the mouse & keyboard into the right holes.

Defective women or children can easily cause this to happen.

Removing them from the list should allow Windows to redetect the drivers.

This all started during an update of XP from Microsoft. I downloaded the files OK and was in the process  
of installing them when AVG, (free), interrupted with a virus warning. I told it to "heal" and everything  
carried as normal. Only after the re-start of the computer did the fault appear. Maybe I should have  
instructed AVG to wait before dealing with the virus?

Quote

This all started during an update of XP from Microsoft. I downloaded the files OK and was in the process  
of installing them when AVG, (free), interrupted with a virus warning. I told it to "heal" and everything  
carried as normal. Only after the re-start of the computer did the fault appear. Maybe I should have  
instructed AVG to wait before dealing with the virus?

Have you tried removing the Msoft update then downloading & installing it again?

Start>Settings>Control Panel>Add/Remove programs.

Ok. I click Start menu> Control Panel> Security Center. Then at the bottom it says "Manage security settings for:" I click on Windows Firewall, and i GET an error saying " Due to an unidentified problem, Windows cannot DISPLAY Windows Firewall settings" Does anyone know how to fix this? If so, please help me.This must be the reason.
http://windowsxp.mvps.org/sharedaccess.htm

Let us know.The INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED worked and my firewall configuration is now accessible. ThanksWelcome and thanks for posting back.

Just recently, I have not been able to login to certain sites, such as GMail, Yahoo, or USBank. I thought I was having a problem with firefox, the error I get is "Firefox cannot establish a connection to the server at www.google.com". I switched over to IE and had the same problem, the error I get here is the usual "This page cannot be displayed". I am able to login to other sites such as MYSPACE. I thought this might be a problem with my router but I can access and login to these sites using my laptop which is connected WIRELESSLY. I haven't CHANGED any settings on my desktop.

Both systems are running Windows XP Pro.I did a system restore which seemed to fix the problem but I would really like to know what CAUSED it and how to fix it. Any opinions would be helpful and appreciated. [smiley=happy.gif]Possible system file missing.It has been working up until today. How would the system file be missing? Quote

It has been working up until today. How would the system file be missing?

Hi there,

I am running Windows XP

I have had a scrollbar error a couple of times in the last few days and it's really weird!
When I hit a link from an EMAIL in Outlook to go to a webpage my scrollbar
goes to the bottom and wont move, so all I can view is the bottom of whatever
email I am reading, and when I open Explorer to view the webpage I can only
see the bottom of that page as well.
If I TRY to move the scrollbar up again it immediately goes to the bottom.
Yikes!
It doesnt happen every time, but I am getting worried now.
If I restart, it is FINE - til the next time.
I have never had a problem LIKE this, can anybody help me please ? !Did you try right clicking the scroll bar and go to properties? make sure it is not on AUTO hide or something like that? and have the check box always on top?What website?