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Not listening to advice is akin to being infected...I am listening. It is very difficult for me to understand what is happening and apply the advice. I am a beginner. E.g "send a screenshot "was requested. I do not know how to send a screenshot. I was covered by AVG 9 but it did not prevent the virus.

The main battery is duff. I bought it via sukshop which is based in Hong Kong. They said send it back - It would have cost £20 to send it back. I cut my losses and use the mains converter. The battery holds some charge but not enough to get past the initial boot up stage. "Welcome" came up and then shutdown. The CMOS message came up via the long and involved process I have to apply in order to boot up. Stage 1. Advised on screen to choose F1 or F2 - chose F1 Stage 2 Standard Set Up Stage 3. Use arrows to change date (always 1999) and correct the time Enable the Disabled the Anti Virus Boot Up . Stage 4. Use Esc to return to menu. Stage 5. Choose Save Settings and Exit. Stage 6. Wait for normal boot up process to take place. Which it usually did until the Virus Warning. Why did the AVG message indicate that all was well then almost immediately afterwards the message that Personal Security was at risk and on folllow up of this advice I was requested to purchase extra cover. I thought it was a scam - hence my initial enquiry.Quote from: bob lee on January 29, 2010, 09:07:09 AM

Personal Security Alert !
New database update is available[/b]
Automatic Updating Necessary to get your system protected in Real time against new and emerging viruses,worms and trojans.
Regular updating is needed to prevent your PC from latest virus threats that lead to system slowdown ,freezes ,crashes and DATA loss.
Viruses Detected on Your PC
What would you like to do ?
Remind me Later - Update Now

hi i installed avg 8.0 and it told me all my win SYSTEM 32 files were viruses and to DELETE them so i did but now i did that i don't have any winsystem 32 files! is There any WAY i can fix this problem with out the installation CD because i have no disk drive any help appreciated.You did what?

And no - you need to reinstall Windows.AVG will not request system files to be deleted so don't blame it on that...
And yes...you will need an XP CD to be able to repair this.

Can SOMEONE PLEASE help me!!! My screen saver goes on for like 3 minutes and the it turns off byitself, sometime it comes back on sometimes not. I don't have a virus. Can't figure out why this is happening What shows on the display when the screen saver closes?Just the regular desk TOP, and the computer is working fine CHECK Task Scheduler. Also, open Task Manager to the Processes Tab and double-click on "cpu" at the top of the cpu column to sort that column with highest usage at the top. Next time screen saver stops take a look and SEE what's using the cpu.

HELP!!



I have this directory that I use to store all my media for itunes, I call is the (Music)M:

In there, itunes has organized it through Artist\Album\Title.mp3

And of course, there are lots of artists, and a lot of albums within an artist's folder

So I WOULD have many of this:

M:\Artist#1\AlbumA\Title_a.mp3
M:\Artist#1\AlbumB\Title_b.mp3
M:\Artist#2\AlbumC\Title_c.mp3

Lots and lots of them.....

I want to do a wholesale clean up of each Title.mp3's naming structure as well as ID3 tags

To begin this, I want to extract every .mp3 file out of each and every folders in all the levels of FILING up to the root M:\ level.

Does anyone know if there is a freeware that does this, if not, anyone got a script they had used before to perform such mass organizing moves?Instead of a direct answer, here is an observation.

Many music lovers use their computer to help organize libraries of their favorite albums. There are a number of programs that help organize my music library in a reasonable, logical and useful manner.
The WINDOWS operating system by itself is a very poor database system. Many of the features that appear to be available either do not work right, or users find it too hard to get it to work the way they want to. That is not to say that Windows is a BAD operating system, that is not the point here. Many companies offer music library programs because there is a real need for such. If users could easily organize everything with just the file structure in Windows, there would be no need for these other programs.
By tacking on a search engine such as Google, one can find many different kinds of music library organizer's. The well known iTunes from Apple has many competitors. Even the Windows media player tries to do the same thing. Now if Microsoft has put that feature into Windows media player it becomes obvious that the operating system by itself does not do such a good job of organizing music.
Now having said that, may I kindly suggest that you do a Google search on KEY words such as music library, MP3 organizers, and alternatives to iTunes and Win Amp.

Here are two I just found:

http://www.simplehelp.net/2007/07/08/10-alternatives-to-itunes-for-managing-your-ipod/

http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-12519_7-10104294-49.html

Hello,

If I connect a flash drive in my computer USB, I can see it in the remove hardware but I can access it via explore, my computer or any other way.. try different fix like change letter of drive but the device not show in Disk Management, so I can do anything.

Any ideas

Thanks

Juan Does it work on other machines ? ?
If so on a working machine see how it shows in Disk Management and report back...
If not check to see if there is a small micro-switch on it...these are for security but not all flash drives have them.Hello Patio,

The flsh drive works fine in other machines, I have try around 5 differents flash drives same thing.

On Disk Managment only show the CDRom drive, nothing else. this is the same in all the different BRAND of flash drives.

Do other usb devices work on this machine?Yes, I have try USB mouse, EXTERNAL HD, keyboard and work find... the computer have 5 USB ports & I have try every one.. with the same results.

Thanks Just for the heck of it, look in device manager please. Any errors?I just look.. no the devie manager is good.. no red X or yellow !.

One other question please. Did this problem just start? Were you ever able to connect a usb drive to this system? Are there any other problems with the computer?Yes good question, I got a virus like 3 month ago, that put a warning banner on the middle of the desktop mention about the infection... I run my spyware program, & never saw it again? you think is some traces of the infection?You could have saved a lot of time if you'd MENTIONED that first. Please go to the malware section of this forum and follow the instructions at the top of that page.Quote from: mcenigma on FEBRUARY 08, 2010, 12:46:46 PM

Yes, I have try USB mouse, external HD, keyboard and work find... the computer have 5 USB ports & I have try every one.. with the same results.

Thanks

Hello All
I am at me wits end trying to figure out what has happened to my PC
During the course of seeking a solution I tried a registry cleaner as it promised to fix all errors but didn't, now I am scared to use another QUICK fix.

This PC is old and all I want to do now is use it for surfing, but the HDD is very full and needs to cleared as it is ultra slow.

I had Office 2007 and Office 2003 on it. When I put 2007 on it replaced Outlook 2003.

I removed office 2007 and this left me WITHOUT a mail programme.

I then tried to install from the office 2003 CD the Outlook, and the CD would not read it.I got the message to insert the CD even though it was in the drive.

I then decided to remove all of office 2003 from the add/remove, I got some INSTALLER error messages, also stated I needed a patch or something that said it could not be verified.

I downloaded the installer clean up tool and tried to install it from the CD.

My CD drive will not read any CD and I tried these on another PC and they read OK.

I want to know if I buy a USB drive DC ROM, will this make my disc readable?

I want to I wipe the lot and go BACK to the beginning.
FYI I did read instructions on how to do this without a CD but my PC didn't have all the references that were stated, so I gave up.

( I think that the installer tool has wiped Office 2003 even though it it still shows on my programmes and on the add/remove. but will not work I GET the preparing to install, then messages saying allow active x, then the lot disappears)

Now there are no error messages, just disappearing and I cannot use Excel or Word, or indeed any office 2003, which makes me think that it is not on the PC at all.

My PC is Compaq EvoN1000e
30GB HDD
512 RAM

Windows Version 5.1
(Build 2600 xpsp_sp3_gdr090804_1435 Service Pack 3)

Apologies for this long problem and any help will be very much appreciated.
Many thanks Vitalhat

Obtained used computer with LITE-ON LTR-522465 CD-ROM rewritable and can proceed to point of naming disk on which to write then get message to insert a disk. Have tried several CD and CD-RW of differing BRANDS without success. The drive will read prior records from my old PC. Both running updated Windows XP w/Service Pk 3. I've TAKEN the drive out and installed it in old PC and it both writes and reads fine.

Have tried some "suggested fixes" which resulted in no change in this drive plus modified the computer so as to not recognize EITHER flash drive or floppy disk insert. Reinstalled the XP-Pro OS and now those media storages works but still the CD write feature still does not recognize that a disk has already been inserted.

Searched forum for possible answers without success and seek ideas. If this is posted somewhere please advise.How old is this drive ? ?
They don't build 'em like they used to...

My computer was working, I signed out of my user and left it running. When I attempted to get off the screen SAVER to log BACK in, the screen came on for two seconds and the screen went black while the light power button keeps flashing but the screen doesn't work it is only black and kinda starts while it flashes. I left it off along with the computer over NIGHT but still nothing. What could be the ISSUE?Try a different DISPLAY to make sure that's not the problem (or try this display on another computer)

figaro,
In what PART of the world do you live?
Is English you native language?
Do you do well in MATHEMATICS and Science?
Or are you better at working with PEOPLE and giving help?
Do you have any physical disabilities?
This is not to invade yu p privacy, but to be able to give you the best ANSER about how to understand computers.
Do you like to rad?
Or are you better with working your hands and eyes. For example action video games.?
Quote from: figaro on February 07, 2010, 05:54:40 PM

So be it then. If learning computing makes me more efficient in XP, then where can I learn computing?

Hi All,
i am having a problem with my PC booting:

i plug in PC - computer powers on automatically
the screen comes on with "platinum" - no beeps

then an info screen comes on : (sometimes the screen appears frozen and nothing HAPPENS)
ide prim master:none
ide prim slave: none
ide sec master: none
ide sec slave: HL-DI-STDVD-ROM CDR8164B 0L06

ide third master:none
ide fouth master:WD360CD-00FLA2 31.08F31

ide fifth master: none
ide sixth master: none
CMOS checksun error - defaults loaded

Press F1 to continue, del to enter setup



So i press F1, windows loading screen appears and then it reboots it self - back to start - this time with no info screen

The computer was put together by a friend 4 or 5 years ago with seperate parts as far as i know. recently another friend formatted the PC and it was working fine until very recently. now its not working properly at all.

if anyone has any ideas, any help would be appreciated please.

thanks & sorry for long winded mail...Your hard drives are not being detected.
Replace the CMOS battery...about the SIZE of a dime on the MBoard...Part # CR2032 available anywhere.

Remove all power to the machine when doing so.

Then plug it back up and power up...you may have to re-boot 1 or twice.Quote from: patio on January 28, 2010, 03:41:38 PM

Your hard drives are not being detected...

Noce catch CC...
But i'm curious why it would be set as 4th IDE device...

...Plus that model does not show up @ WD's site...

...i am unsure now what to do:
- should i replace the battery?
- is it the hard drive that is at fault?...

So i press F1, windows loading screen appears and then it reboots it self - back to start - this time with no info screen

I am getting a message that my SYSTEM is infected. SPYWARE activity detected. It is RUNNING very poorly and i cannot open any PDF filesGo to the MALWARE section of this FORUM and follow the instructions at the top of that page.

Can anyone help me? Some TIME ago my laptop LOST its original XP program when my friend tried to install Windows Vista with faulty Cd. I brought back just recently but the sound and video card aren't responding. I want to know if they were heat damaged by his many failed attempts to make it up to me, or if they just need to reboot or something. I have a Compaq PRESARIO V2000 and i have not added or REMOVED any hardware in the 5 years that I bought it.You need to re-install the Compaq DRIVERS from the Driver CD that shipped with the machine...
If you no longer have the CD travel to Compaq's site for your drivers...

Is there a way to copy the entire contents of a folder in Outlook Express In box to a CD? I only seem to be able to copy the contents item by item. Mrs Cleef, fumbling along!"Outlook Express In box"... Please explain.

Alan <>< Try this, Mrs Cleef. It should work with the Inbox and other folders you wish to copy to CD.

Open Outlook Express then CLICK, Tools, Options, on the Maintenance tab there's a BUTTON labeled Store Folder. Click that, and it will tell you the PATH to the folder containing your email. Copy the entire contents of that directory to a floppy, CD-ROM.

Post back here if this doesn't work or you need more help. You can find more information in Windows XP with a quick click on the Start button and choosing Help and Support.

Rosie



Quote from: Cleef on February 08, 2010, 06:52:30 AM

Is there a way to copy the entire contents of a folder in Outlook Express In box to a CD? I only seem to be able to copy the contents item by item. Mrs Cleef, fumbling along!

i tried every program like erd or others like it and nothing succeed. windows is not going up. so i enterd do the bios and then i saw that there is a problem:
"THE NUMBER OF DISKS IS NOT ADEQUATE TO CREATE A RAID!!!" exept this i cant touch nothing in the bios and it showing that i have no drives:
"serial_ch0 Master no drive"
"serial_ch1 Master no drive" ,*censored*?!!? can it be that my hard-disk went to heaven?
i'm very CONFUSED pliz help me
tnx omer.full problem:
BLUE SCREEN
UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME
stop: 0x000000ed(0x8a6ee900,oxc000009a,0x00000000,0x00000000)QUOTE

can it be that my hard-disk went to heaven?

Toshiba doesn't provide any diagnostic tool.

Have you ever tried to use any of those tools on Toshiba drive?
I have and it didn't work.

We're talking about Toshiba drives...

so i enterd do the bios and then i saw that there is a problem:
"THE NUMBER OF DISKS IS NOT ADEQUATE TO CREATE A RAID!!!" exept this i cant touch nothing in the bios and it showing that i have no drives:
"serial_ch0 Master no drive"
"serial_ch1 Master no drive"

hi.
im having troubles with my computer booting up.
when i boot up my computer, it starts to boot but then it brings me this error:

A problem has been detected and WINDOWS has been shut down to PREVENT permenent damage to your computer.

then some stuff about how sorfware or hardware has been installed improperly.
then it gives a code or something:

UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME
***STOP: 0X000000ED (0X823D2D98, 0XC0000006. 0X00000000, 0X00000000)


im confused on what to do please help!!!
WELCOME to the CH forums.

Whenever you get an error message which you don't understand please Google the error message, there's lots of help and advice out there. Here is a Microsoft kb dealing with Stop Error ED.

Please READ this and POST the relevant information if you need further assist.

Good luck 1. Additional links for that STOP code:
a. Stop 0x000000ED (UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME)
b. http://kadaitcha.cx/xp/stop_error.html#0x000000ED
c. http://aumha.org/a/stop.htm. Look for "ED: Unmountable Boot..." in column on right-hand side of the web page.

my orginal xp sp2 operating disk didn't download all the orginal files when i recently formatted my HARDDRIVE,how do i find these missing files and INSTALL them.i don't have the operating disk anymore for recoveryHow did you format your hard drive? Did you use a recovery partition or a CD?Not clear on this...you formatted...you had an XP CD but you don't have it anymore ? ?And what do you mean it didn't download all the original files?Hi Ridge,
To HELP us better answer you question,can you please clarify for the forum:
1. Did you ORIGINALLY have a licenced Windows with a COA, or an "evaluation copy"?
2. You mention you no longer have the CD. Has it become damaged or has it been lost?
3. If you no longer have the original CD, did you wipe and reinstall using a friends CD?

If you supply more info, we can offer you a better level of SERVICE.
Regards
Steve

Quote from: Allan on February 01, 2010, 04:23:15 PM

This isn't an issue of not being able to install a driver. It's about installing one that should not have been installed.

At what point did the problem become about an anti virus? There is no correlation. Let's move on.

cyborg - I assume you did more than download that driver, I assume you installed it. Have you since uninstalled it?

What does SONAR have to do with it...and wouldn't uninstalling Norton and re-installing be easier? ? ?

Just out of curiosity, what happens if you try a different keyboard?

No, this the one one that came with the computer. I can pick up another one at Micro Center or some place that.
I found Sonar, it is a feature of Norton. I have been reviewing the comments and I am going back to Norton to see if I can disable it.

I Disabled Norton

It has to be some kind of virus.

I have IE6 and am constantly getting the error message "Internet EXPLORER has encountered a problem and has to shut down". It gets to the POINT it's almost unusable. Does IE 7 or 8 solve this problem?No. Something else is causing it. What are you doing when the error message occurs?I remember seeing that message when I used to use IE, I don't remember if it was ver 6 or 7. It was an occasional nuisance, but not constant. CC might be right that something else is going on.

Since I switched to FireFox I haven't seen anything like that since. You might try FireFox and see if it MAKES a difference. It may help you narrow down the problem.

BTW, even though I don't use IE hardly at all any more, I still keep it up to date. The most current version is IE8.

I, too, use Firefox most of the time. But there are some times when I want to use IE. I am not doing anything unusual. It just pops up when it has the mind to. Has IE 7 or 8 solved this problem?By all means, try a newer version and see what happens. It obviously can't get worse.I've seen that upgrading to a later version of IE has FIXED a problem with the current browser. It's good that you have an alternative browser like FF. MANY people don't think past that and get stuck with NO Internet with only 1 defective browser.

Alan <><

how to fix the problem if you delete NTDETECT.COM into recycle bin?1. Well, if you're still in the operating system looking at the recycle bin; you'd open up the recycle bin and double-click on "NTDetect.com" to restore the file to its previous location.

If you're unable to boot the operating system, it's going to be a little harder... You'd need access to a copy of "NTDetect.com" and a means to copy it back to the hard drive.

2. Operating System. What VERSION and service pack level were you operating with? For example, Windows XP Home EDITION SP3?

3. What Windows XP recovery/restore or installation CDs do you have?

4. Options:
a. Boot Floppy. If you have a floppy drive and access to a working Windows XP system, you could build a boot floppy containing the necessary boot files: NTLDR, NTDETECT.COM, and BOOT.INI. You'd need to modify the boot.ini file to point to the location of the operating system on your hard drive. Trick is to format the floppy on a Windows XP machine so its boot record is written to look for NTLDR as the bootloader file.

You'd boot Windows XP from the floppy where the "boot.ini" file is configured to point to the operating system on your hard drive. Once you're back in the operating system, you'd copy the NTDETECT.COM from the floppy to the active primary partition of the hard drive (normally C:).

b. Recovery Console. If you have the appropriate Windows XP Install CD, you can boot to Recovery Console from the CD and use its limited command capability to copy NTDETECT.COM back to your hard drive (from CD, floppy, USB flash drive).

If you don't have Install CD, you can download a recovery console iso image off Internet, write (not copy) the iso image to CD, and then boot that CD. You'll still need access to media containing NTDETECT.COM file however.

c. Slave Hard Drive. Pull the hard drive out of your system and "slave" it to a working Windows XP system. Copy the NTDETECT.COM from their system to yours. Not sure whether you need to match VERSIONS and service pack levels here. (I'd probably make sure NTLDR and NTDETECT.COM have same "modified" date to ensure they're consistent. Mine say "4/14/2008".)

d. Boot to RESCUE CD. Boot to a Live CD containing an operating system that supports "writes" to NTFS file system and use it to copy "NTDETECT.COM" file from whatever media you have it on (floppy, CD, USB flash drive). Many different Live CDs to choose from. Ubuntu 9.04 Live CD will work.

5. Let us know which WAY you want to go...

I was useing my Hp laptop last week and i DOWNLOAD a torrent it was windows Chicago which was made in 1993 (so they say) and i used Bit Torrent to fully download it. the next day i boot it up and the welcome screen loads longer and the following error shows up:
"Security Warning!
Worm. Win32. Netsky detected on your machine.
This virus is distributed via the internet though e-mail and active-x objects.
The worm has it's own SMTP engine which means it gathers e-mails from your LOCAL computer and re-distributes itself.
viruses can damage your confidential data and work on your computer.
Continue working in unprotected mode is very dangerous.

Type: virus
system affected: windows 2000, NT, Me, Xp, vista, 7
security RISK(0-5): 5
Recomendations: It is necessary to perform a full sytem scan.

then when i click ok the computer finishes loading and instead of my desktop it shows a green screen with the words Your system is infected and some more............
then it does a scan through antivirus plus and finds:

SecurePCCCleaner
Dialer.trafficjam
trojan.poision.j
win32.delbot

and it goes on and on
My system has:

3 GHz processor
512 mg RAM
80 Gb hdd
Dvd burner

any help please!? Please go to the computer viruses and spyware section of the forum and start a thread there for help.

I am not much of a CPU guy. I have a Dell Latitude E6500 and about a week ago I started getting this message regarding Roxio Update Manager that says "The feature you are trying to use is on a network resource that is not available. Click ok to try again, or enter an alternate path to a folder containing the installation PACKAGE 'UM.MSI' in the box below" It has a drop down menu, but when I hit ok it gives me a message "The path..........cannot be found. This wont go away and I can't cancel it. It comes up anytime I start or do anything. Can any of you folks HELP me? Thanks and have a good one!The original installation may have been made from an external HDD or thumb drive and it's looking to the original location for a missing component...
A re-install of Roxio should cure this right off...Download Autoruns for Windows: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/bb963902.aspx
No installation required.
Simply unzip Autoruns.zip file, and double click on autoruns.exe file to run the program.
Go File>Save, and save it as AutoRuns.txt file to know location.
You must select Text from drop-down menu as a file type:



Attach the file to your next reply.
Did i mention i hate Roxio ? ?
Broni this is a component of the update installer in Sonic/Roxio...

How are you BTW ? ?I'm good Yourself? How is redhair doing?
Awful weather around here. It's been like this for a while

Quote

Broni this is a component of the update installer in Sonic/Roxio...

I understand. Probably running as a startup, so probably we can disable it.

No mudslides i hope ? ?

I SHUT down my computer that was running fine and now it wont come back on. What could be wrong?More information needed.I have a Dell optiplex GX280 desktop. It wont turn on at all. I unpluged everything then pluged back in and NOTHING. I opened up the tower and have a yellow light on inside when pluged in. the power BUTTON flashed amber on the front.Dells site should have more info on the LED error codes...

What EXACTLY happened prior to this ? ?It has been running fine, I always leave it on unless Iam out of town. I just decided to shut it down the other night and in the morning WENT to turn on and there was nothing.Quote from: patio on February 06, 2010, 11:49:33 AM

Dells site should have more info on the LED error codes...

What exactly happened prior to this ? ?

I don't know what I do to cause a large square to appear on my screen that magnifies the portion my mouse goes to. Can anyone help?
Thanks Try pressing the small thumb BUTTON on your mouse. Often by default for Microsoft mouse's is magnify for the upper most thumb button. If this is what is CAUSING it you can change these settings by open the mouse settings in the control panel and changing the button to something else.Another possibility may be the Magnifier utility has been activated. Try this if you think it may be what is happening:

1) Start \ All Programs \ Accessories \ Accessibility \ Magnifier

2) To turn off Magnifier, in the Magnifier Settings dialog box, select the EXIT button.

Rosie Thanks all. I will try these suggestions.

About a MONTH ago, I started getting a message saying that windows could not find logon.exe. I thought nothing of it, thinking it was not a problem, but now windows has locked me out of my computer. I type my password to log in, and it does the normal logon sound and screen, but then it logs me right back off again. the most it has done is show me my wallpaper, no icons or start menu. My mom's IT worker says that it has to do with that file. we are all looking for a solution, but does ANYBODY know how to fix it for a low price?



PS I cannot start my computer in safe mode and i do not have the windows xp disk or a floppy drive, so don't give me that stuff, please.1. Cause: Because viruses, Spyware, Troyand edit or delete entries in the Userinit registry at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE \ SOFTWARE \ Microsoft \ Windows NT \ CurrentVersion \ Winlogon
. 2. Handling:
.
* First you try to scan and kill virus before. You can use the boot from Dos to scan (in Hiren's boot disk scanning programs, should Mcafree to scan first, then scan again with F-Prot) or remove the hard drive attached to another MACHINE to scan.
* Search for the right to edit Regitry:
.
Right in the registry that is:
.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE \ SOFTWARE \ Microsoft \ Windows NT \ CurrentVersion \ Winlogon
.
Userinit entry is as follows
.
Value: Userinit
.
Data:% Windir% \ System32 \ Userinit. exe,. Where% Windir% \ is a directory of your installation Winodws. Usually C: \ Windows \ System32 \ Userinit. exe,
.
Please note: a sign, at the end.

In case of lost deleted virus called Userinit string, you automatically regenerate another by: right click, select New-> String Value. Change its name into Userinit, and then Double Click on it and type the correct path to the Userinit. exe in the Value data nhé. For example usually as follows:
.
C: \ Windows \ System32 \ Userinit. exe,
.

3. By ADDING Regitry from DOS:
.
There are many ways to edit the registry from DOS use the Hiren's BootCD, WinBuilder, Bart's PE Builder, miniPE ... In short how to use even more of our primary purpose is to edit the Registry is
. Left to right above.

In this article I guide you to manipulate with the rescue was made from Bart's PE Builder (eg PE Windows XP, Windows Server 2003-foot limit).

PE booting from your disk, interface as follows:
.


Choose Go -> Run -> and type Regedit to open Registry
.


However, this is a Registry Registry of PE (the windows on the CD, not the machine you need to edit). So, to fix the computer registry, you must carry load.

In Registry Editor, click on the branch you need to edit and click on the File menu \ Load hive and then choose File representing combinations to edit the Registry Software, Sam, Security ... the combination is usually located in C: \ Windows \ System32 \ Config
.
For example, in this case we need to change the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE branch is selected, then the menu File -> Load Hive
.


Look in you in the path to: C: \ Windows \ System32 \ Config. We need to edit the Registry should we choose Software Software and click Open. The system will ask what is Key Name: This is not important, what you put also. List examples. Then in HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE will have a new category called KeyName you've set. This corresponds to the Software section on the need to correct. You here to conduct the Registry right back to the above mentioned.

After you complete Click the Load Lock her up and then emerged at the File menu, choose to remove Hive unload.

Then you reboot and run windows on your machine. Phenomenon "to then strike out" is no longer available. I'm having the same problem... And
I don't understand what the guy above me was sayingIn the absence of technical skills to follow the instructions, it would be easiest to borrow an XP Retail disk (of the same version, i.e. Home, Professional, etc) and run a Repair Install from the CD boot menu.Ok, I cannot logon at all, so I can't run regedit or anything. I am looking for a disk that i could boot from so i can access the files and replace the file. Or, if i restore, can i still keep my filds? (pictures, music, video)That's what a Repair Install does.


you can download here.
http://www.brothersoft.com/downloads/windows-pe.htmlQuote from: bendres97 on February 05, 2010, 02:57:10 PM

Ok, I cannot logon at all, so I can't run regedit or anything. I am looking for a disk that i could boot from so i can access the files and replace the file. Or, if i restore, can i still keep my filds? (pictures, music, video)

I'm looking to use the Macrium Reflect product (free version) for backing up my computer, I just have a few questions to ASK before I get too involved in the process.

Question one. can I use 700mb CD-RWs to save to ? if so, how MANY would I need ?

Question two. when it comes time to reinstall using Macrium Reflect, do I no longer use the 10 CD-RWs the tech support helped me to make when I first bought the computer ? as well the CD-RWs I've made more recently wouldn't be required either, right ?

My computer: Compaq Presario SR1500NX. Windows Version 2002. 3rd SP.

Thanks in advance.

Kelly.Quote from: kelly1 on FEBRUARY 02, 2010, 12:26:14 AM

Question one. can I use 700mb CD-RWs to save to ? if so, how many would I need ?

Yes. No way for us to know - depends on the size of the drive or partition

Question two. when it comes time to reinstall using Macrium Reflect, do I no longer use the 10 CD-RWs the tech support helped me to make when I first bought the computer ? as well the CD-RWs I've made more recently wouldn't be required either, right ?

Correct

While i agree an external/secondary drive is more convenient all drives fail...eventually.
Nothing beats a good verified image backed up to CD/DVD media...

Hey to all!
I have Gericom laptop M6-T 1200MHz
some month AGO I got a virus, which disabled keyboard. it was not totally disabled - sometimes was working. then I reinstalled OS (again to XP), but it hasnt helped
when I connect another keyboard with computer, laptop's keyboard and connected keyboard are both working, but when I remove extra keyboard, laptop's keyboard gets disabled immediately what can be done to solve this problem?

Thanks! What does it look like in Device Manager? Are there any ERRORS?

Start>right CLICK "my computer">properties>hardware tab>device manager

Do you see any yellow exclamation points, red question marks or red X's?There are everything ok in Device MGR, but in case there are some problems, after re-installing XP they must be gone! I still think this probelm is caused, because my comp is quite old (made in 2002)Quote from: compfreak on August 07, 2009, 02:05:28 AM

(made in 2002)

They're not always cheap for a laptop...

Have you opened it up lately, and had a look inside? What's the dust factor like?

Hi hope anyone out there can help.
My problem is that I cannot delete other TWO users on my desktop.

I am the main administrator of the account, when I go through Control Panel, then User Accounts, I FIND the account that im looking for click on it and it gives me the option to delete, when I do this it then says i will lose the files of that user, and still I click am prepared to lose what ever, it then trys to delete the account but when doing so it freezes with the hourglass icon and does nothing, I get the s...s and then close out of the account, try to delete the other user account and same happens again.

The other day I found this TIP from this forum which was to do this
1. Boot to safe mode by tapping F8 key while booting
2. Choose safe mode and press enter
3. Click on the administrator account
4. At the safe mode desktop, click start, and control panel
5. Double click user accounts, here you can delete accounts, delete/change passwords etc
6. When done close all windows
7. Restart computer.
OK guys this worked on my laptop, but i cannot do the same on my desktop

Whats happening on the desktop?
When Im in NORMAL windows I have these two user accounts as administrators too, three of us can be seen on the normal logon window, and via the user accounts, but when I try to delete them in safe mode they cannot be seen at the logon window only me, when I OPEN control panel, user account in that safe mode window they cannot be seen here as well

Can anyone help? Would appreciate any answers...Thank you
Look this over:

Demo: Understanding user accounts

I think he NEEDS to MAKE a NEW topic to fix his keyboardQuote from: computeruler on August 07, 2009, 08:47:53 PM

I think he needs to make a new topic to fix his KEYBOARD

Does anyone know how MANY maximum number of Clusters NTFS can support?

And what is the smallest and the largest Hard Drive that NTFS can see?

ThanksWhat is the smallest and the largest Hard Drive that NTFS can see?

Let me Google that for you.

HTTP://lmgtfy.com/?q=What+is+the+smallest+and+the+largest+Hard+Drive+that+NTFS+can+see%3F
I whent to google and I found to many things.

I don't know how Small Hard Drive in MB or how Larg Hard Drive in NTFS can see??

And how many Clusters can NTFS see??Is this homework?
There is litter reason to use NTFS for a partition under 400MB. I think you can make a 8MB NTFS partition, but it is kind of pointless.
NTFS is not like FAT. Nor is it a fixed sector size SYSTEM using tables like other file systems. The sector size is normally 512 bytes, and this is often a requirement of the HARDWARE. So the allocation unit is often just one sector. A volume in NTFS cam be up to 8,446,744,073,709,551,616 bytes.
I think that is way beyond any current hardware designs. Max IDE is 48 bit

So, why do you need to know that?
Max volume = 2^64
512 = 2^9
So max number of sectors is 2^64 - 2^9 = 2^35

Sorry, my calculator is not here at hand, So I can't help with the math.

Here is a article you many wan to READ:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/100108Nymph is notorious for asking homework questions here. Quote from: Carbon Dudeoxide on August 06, 2009, 01:30:06 AM

Nymph is notorious for asking homework questions here.

So today, I decided that I was going to hack ntoskrnl manually to change the BOOT screen. You probably already know were I am going, but it is a little more complicated than you would think. I replaced the ntoskrnl with my version and rebooted the machine. It booted up ok and there were no problems.

I have two computers. One is a dell dimension 4400 with a pentium 4 1.6Ghz processor and the other is an AMD Athlon 64 X2 something+. Both of these computers have XP Pro with SP3. The only difference is that one has MicroXP (doesn't matter if you don't know what it is). I decided to copy the hacked ntoskrnl from the dell to the amd. The only other thing I did while copying was change the clock to 24 hour time, if that has any significance. I figured it would work because it has the same OS. Well it didn't work. I rebooted and was put into an endless reboot loop. It would reboot before it got to the boot screen. I thought that this may happen, so I had a BartPE CD ready. I rebooted into BartPE and replaced the hacked ntoskrnl with the original. I then rebooted again and still didn't work. That's when I started to get really pissed because I knew that this might happen and I had prepared for this.

So could anyone HELP me figure out why I am in this endless loop?

Things I already tried (so that I don't have to tell you "but i already did that"):
*Safe mode
*Boot log (doesn't even make the file so i figure it is before the file system driver)
*Removed /usepmtimer from boot.ini (cause i thought it may have to do with the 24 hour thing)
*BartPE (almost equivalent to recovery console)

I hope you took the time to read this much. Thank you for your help.1. Stop the automatic restart to get information from the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD).

Tap the F8 FUNCTION key once or twice a second as you reboot the machine. The Windows Advanced Options menu should APPEAR. Use the up/down arrow keys to select the "Disable automatic restart on system failure" and hit Enter. Hopefully the machine will stop on BSOD.

Record and post back with the "exact" error message text and/or numbers plus any offending software module it might name. A google search on these text strings or substrings sometimes provides problem resolution.


2. Don't know if this applies to your configuration, but Microsoft provides two different kernels. From Microsoft Technet's Troubleshooting the Startup Process:
Quote

The core (also called the kernel) of the Windows XP Professional operating system. Code that runs as part of the kernel does so in privileged processor mode and has direct access to system data and hardware.

During INSTALLATION on single processor systems, Windows XP Professional Setup copies Ntoskrnl.exe from the operating system CD. During installation on multiprocessor systems, Windows XP Professional Setup copies Ntoskrnlmp.exe and renames it Ntoskrnl.exe.

The core (also called the kernel) of the Windows XP Professional operating system. Code that runs as part of the kernel does so in privileged processor mode and has direct access to system data and hardware.

During installation on single processor systems, Windows XP Professional Setup copies Ntoskrnl.exe from the operating system CD. During installation on multiprocessor systems, Windows XP Professional Setup copies Ntoskrnlmp.exe and renames it Ntoskrnl.exe.

At startup, I can log in to my desktop fine. However, after a few seconds, I get "critical kernel error" and "virtual memory is DAMAGED by Explorer.exe" and "memory reading at address 0x00f31fA." My comupter then unexpectedly will shut down. The next time I turn it on, a blue SCREEN flashes (which I don't have enough time to fully read) about windows unable to start properly. To my knowledge, I have not recently installed any new programs or downloaded anything that might have CAUSED this.

I also have a lot of unwanted startup applications that I can't seem to disable with msconfig. I'm not SURE if the two are related.

I have a Samsung NC10 netbook on Windows XP. Processor: Intel Atom (1.6 GHz) ; RAM installed: 1 GB; L2 cache 512MB

Any help WOULD be greatly greatly appreciated!

Thanks!Have you tried booting into safemode?

Cameron Gray

P.S. I have the same netbook - NC10 in Blackthis mite help alittle if your familiar with a program called system mechanic. system mechanic has an optimize tool where you can disable programs at startup. It may help you out. other then that try running recovery console from you windows xp cd. use the fixboot and fixmbr commands this may let you have access to atleast safemode. then you can figure out what issue you gotta resolve.I'd stay away from System Mechanic....Quote from: patio on August 05, 2009, 05:03:26 PM

I'd stay away from System Mechanic....

Hi Everybody

I have a COMPUTER Which I haven’t use in over 3 months, I have been using my lap top.

When I went to turn it on a box came up which said

My PASSWORD expired and must be changed.


My problem is I forgot my password. What do I do now?
How can I turn on the compter?

Can I create a new password?

Thank You for your help
What password ? ?
Windows passwords do NOT EXPIRE...
Is this your machine ? ?
If so what OS what type of machine and how do you forget an Admin password ? ?Quote from: patio on July 31, 2009, 05:15:28 PM

and how do you forget an Admin password ? ?

Windows passwords do NOT expire...

would like to cut back on phone lines. I have no idea where to start or how to USE computer to send and recieve fax. can anyone give me some help and give suggestions on where to start.Quote from: eb011187 on August 05, 2009, 09:02:55 AM

would like to cut back on phone lines.

did you all give up on my question. anybody out there

I just got an Acer Aspire One mini laptop a month ago and everything was working fine till a couple days ago. I signed off AOL, closed the lid and left it for awhile. When i came back i saw my cat had chewed on the mouse cord, so i took that off and tried signing on again. First it seemed to get stuck trying to load Weatherbug, so i uninstalled that. Then it seemed to get stuck loading AOL, so i uninstalled that. I could get to IE but it kept freezing. So now this is what its doing - when i turn it on, it goes as far as the Windows logo and the blue bars keep going across the screen. For about the first 5 seconds the light comes on for the hard drive, then goes out and it just stays on the Windows logo (with the blue bars moving). According to the users manual i should be able to start it, then at the Acer logo press ALT and F10 at the same time and its supposed to take me to the recovery PROCESS but it takes me to the screen that has start in safe mode, starting last known good configuration, ETC. and all i can do there is highlight start normally, but then it does as i described above the windows logo. Any ideas to help me not have to send this back to the factory? I'm sorry this was so long winded but i didn't want to leave anything out. Thanks in advance.I got it fixed. I POSTED this problem on another site, someone suggested i CALL the Acer tech phone number, which i did, and got the problem SOLVED (we did a system recovery, which i wasn't able to find on my own). I'm glad to hear that you got the problem solved.

Hi all, first of all you must understand that my computer skills is worse than beginner. I have a game and it crashes a lot and the SUPPORT site say to REINSTALL Microsoft .Net 2.0 but FAILED to were I FIND it and how to install it. I need this fixed so I can unstall the game and then reinstall so that maybe it will work right. You should be able to remove it via the 'Add/Remove Programs' part of the Control Panel. To reinstall it just use Microsoft or WINDOWS Update.

now it shows:

acronis true IMAGE HOME (full edition)

acronis drivecleanser

WindowsI would go with the first oneok now what?dunno what does it saywell it shows a WINDOW with different OPTIONS such as backup and recovery and underneath that it shows several tools like validate backup archiverecovery..................now the recovery data wizard appearedThat's a good thing, do what it says to do.

Greetings. I am a new poster in serious need of some assistance. I purchased a legal xp disc and installed it on 3 laptops with crashed o/s. 2 are dells, the other a GATEWAY. dell one wouldn't accept the installation at all and indicates there is a file needed to install that isn't on the disc. on the other 2, the installation worked but there are several 'other devices' that can't be located...network controller, etc. the odd thing is that both the dell and the gateway are missing the same adapters/controllers/drivers (I'm open to suggestions SINCE I don't know where to go from here). i tried downloading a program from a memory stick but it cannot recognize the specific missing components. i tried both dell and gateway sites...the listed drivers didn't SEEM appropriate. Can anybody help me out with finding the network controller, etc. so I can use the xp online? Thanks very much in advance!Sounds like you are missing the chipset drivers for each respective MBoard...
Dell's are easy...simply travel to their site and enter the service tag# and it will list the appropiate drivers.

You are aware that the liscense terms for XP are 1 liscense= 1 machine.Quote from: patio on August 05, 2009, 12:47:01 AM

You are aware that the liscense terms for XP are 1 liscense= 1 machine.

We won't help you pirate an OS.

Is it REALLY necessary to backup EVERYTHING on my laptop before I update to SP3?
I know there's a possibility of me losing installed applications, but is the risk extremely high of losing my documents??In my opinion, YES, it is necessary, or at least strongly advisable. If the service pack install fails part way through, you could be left with an unbootable system. The chances of this happening may be QUITE SMALL, but unless you have some way of recovering your documents, a backup is a good idea. It is a good idea anyway, considering how vulnerable a laptop is to such things as being dropped or stolen. I agree with SalmonTrout. It is always advisable that you do a backup before any major system upgrade (OS Switch, Service Pack install, etc.)

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\Thomas/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ /\/\/\/\/\\/\/\/Quote from: teezy4life on August 03, 2009, 02:58:33 PM

Is it REALLY necessary to backup everything on my laptop before I update to SP3?
I know there's a possibility of me losing installed applications, but is the risk extremely high of losing my documents??

Error Message:
"No, Server Error: 0x800CCC90, Error Number: 0x800CCC92"

I have TRIED to contact Cox (ISP ) but no response. I have used Cox and OUTLOOK Express for several years.

My regular ISP EMAIL does not work but I gave my yahoo email which works

How do I reinstall Outlook Express? My machine is inspiron 530s.
I'm using XP Pro.

I cannot reach Microsoft XP support.

The complete error message:

"There was a problem logging ONTO your MAIL server. Your Password was rejected. Account: 'pop.central.cox.net', Server: 'pop.central.cox.net', Protocol: POP3, Server Response: '-ERR invalid user name or password.', Port: 110, Secure(SSL): No, Server Error: 0x800CCC90, Error Number: 0x800CCC92"Contact Cox and tell them you need a password re-set...

I am using Avast. I RECENTLY downloaded Spyware Terminator with Clam Antivirus. Can I run them both at the same time, or will that cause problems? I know you're not supposed to have two AV's.not an expert on security, but I believe the problem with running two antivirus PROGRAMS at the same time actually refers to the real-time protection. On one hand, you have on-demand anti-virus, like Malwarebytes, where they only run when you call on them.... On the other hand you have real-time antivirus, where they constantly monitor your system... It's this type of antivirus is where you do not want two of them running simultaneously...You could disable the real-time protection in one of them however, if it is optional...Like AVG, I know AVG lets you disable the real-time protection.....also known as "resident shield"

If I were you I'd pick the anti-virus program with the best ratings as far as real-time protection is CONCERNED and let that one DOMINATE your system, while the others just lurk in the background and run manual scans with them as needed..

When I run scans or suspect a virus, I always use multiple on-demand programs...They are already installed on my system so all I have to do is update them when I need them and not worry about downloading and installing.. you cannot run 2 anti-virus you should delete 1 , i would keep avst , why do you need 2I think spyware terminator adds the realtime mode to clamwin antivirus that otherwise clamwin would not have.

I would just keep Avast on, updated and running and forget about Clamwin unless you want to keep it handy in somewhere like a USB stick for backup virus scans.Spyware Terminator is a fine addition, and it won't interfere with AV program.
Clam doesn't run in real time. It's on demand scanner, so it'll COEXIST with others as well.however .... according to Spyware Terminator's features list

Quote

Spyware Terminator has included the popular award winning open-source antivirus, Clam AntiVirus (ClamAV), for optional integration to achieve a higher level of security. ClamAV can be integrated into spyware scans, updates and the real-time protection.

Hi, I have recently set up a home network at home. However, how will I be able to reverse that. As in undo home office network settings.

thankshome network, as in going through a router? Quote from: aaskl on August 06, 2009, 11:20:44 PM

Hi, I have recently set up a home network at home. However, how will I be able to reverse that. As in undo home office network settings.

thanks

I have a DELL that is running win XP. About two days ago, I started noticing popups stating that my computer is infected. And I kept seeing that pop up every so often.

I went into safe mode to do a system restore, but there were no restore points. I then put in a disk with several antivirus antispyware anti ADWARE programs, but I couldnt start any of the installation procedures, the computer wouldnt respond when I double clicked on the APPLICATIONS.

I already did remove many of the programs through the add/remove programs that I didnt recognize. But the pop ups still persist. How do I get rid of this pesky stuff

My alternate method which is a last resort is to back up the files from the hard drive and then reinstall the OS, but there might be some important files I may forget, and besides I might backup the malware unknowingly and then reinfect the computer.

So please help.
Clik Here...patio: I looked at the link you sent. But the problem is I cannot download and/or install anything, the malware on my system doesnt let anything get installed.

So is there an alternative way to reset the computer as in scan each document before backing it, and then reloading the operating system and transferring stuff back. Or is there an easier way?
Since you have access to a machine because you are posting i would suggest DLoading all the TOOLS specified onto a flash drive and installing/running them on the infected machine in safemode...patio: I have all the programs on a disk. I did start the infected machine in safe mode and I inserted the disk in the machine. It could read the disk, but when I tried the usual means of installing the software from the disk by double clicking, nothing happened. The cursor became an hourglass for a split second then went back to BECOMING an arrow, but that was it, no installation procedure started. So probably the same thing will happen even if I have the programs on a flash drive.

Other ideas?
download dr web cure it, no need to install just run it ! http://www.freedrweb.com/cureit/I was thinking, if I do decide to transfer the file via a data cable from the infected hard drive to my laptop, woulld I need to scan the files before I transfer them or after I transfer them. B4.you could also run the dr.web live cd, here is the link http://www.freedrweb.com/livecd/Next time you have a virus or infection of any sort, please go to the correct section of the forums so the experts in that section can aid you accordingly.bobgar:

I looked at the drweb link you sent. As long as it can start automatically and not have to be installed, itll work, cause Im unable to install anything on the computer, the malware wont let me.

When I went to the download link, it gives me the parent directory structure with several links . which of those links do i need to download and burn onto cd before insert the cd into the infected computer?Oh and if I want to DISINFECT files before I transfer tthem to another disk, will drweb scan and disinfect the files

I have a compaq laptop that is showing a strong signal but it won't bring up the internet it just says connecting forever.The internet is working fine on my PC what COULD this be? Please help! I have rebooted and even tried a restore(which was unsuccessful). What now?TRY Start>SETTINGS>Network CONNECTIONS>Right click on Lan / Hi speed internet and click repair
I tried that several times and no luck. I just uninstalled REG CURE as I heard it could cause more problems than good. I restarted the comp and it worked but much slower than norm. Also I KEEP getting an error that says zune.bus enumerator? Could that be a prob?

I have a laptop computer that during the night the screen went black and I WOKE up to this error message.

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

I RUN windows XP but this computer/laptop was ORIGINALLY purchased from a friend so I don't have a CD for it but.......

I have a desktop that I also run windows XP on. The CD I have for that is windows XP student and teachers home edition. What can I do to get my laptop to work again. Is it the operating system as I suspect?

Your help is appreciated. THANK you.Boot to the recovery CONSOLE (boot to your XP CD and choose the first repair option) and run the following two commands (press ENTER after each command):

fixboot c:

fixmbr c:

Then, from the same command prompt run chkdsk /r (it will take a while to complete - you'll know when it's done).

Hi, I'm running XP Home, SP2, on a Maxdata computer. Without adding new hard or software this problem arrived. I fire up the PC and the XP screen with progress bar appears briefly followed by "sorry windows didn't start normally, please choose an option below" message. The keyboard is unresponsive so I can't select safe mode or any other option. Pressing F8 on starting does not produce the advanced start options page. The keyboard works on another computer and I have tried a known good keyboard in the PS2 port and another known good USB keyboard. Cannot boot from the Windows CD as the first message is "press any key to continue..." and the keyboard is unresponsive.
I have a bootable Linux Puppy disc and the keyboard works with that but I am not familiar with Linux so I don't know where to go from there. Would be grateful for any help with this.1. Maxdata Computer. First time I've heard of Maxtdata, although Wikipedia says they were pretty big in Europe. Went out of business last year? Which one do you have:
o DESKTOP, notebook, or laptop?
o Model name and/or number identifier
o Approximate year it was made
o Make, model number, and speed of processor, if known
o WORKING CD drive? Bootable?
o Working floppy drive? Bootable?
o Working USB ports? Bootable?

2. CMOS Setup. Does it permit you to enter the CMOS setup utility of the system BIOS? Does keyboard work within CMOS setup? Which one - PS/2 or USB?

3. Diagnostic CDs. Do you have capability to download and burn diagnostic CDs if necessary?

4. Windows Advanced Options menu. Have you successfully accessed this menu in the past from the F8 function key?
Hi dahlarbear
1. Desktop, Favorit/PCMD/64063, 2006, Intel Pentium D, CD OK bootable, floppy and USB present, not known if bootable.
2. Can't access anything as F keys are dead.
3. Yes.
4. Yes on other PCs but not had to on this one.Try a brand new PS2 keyboard...about 10 Bucks.Hi Patio. Why try a new keyboard? The one I'm typing on now does not work on the broken PC nor does another known good one.1. PS/2 Keyboard. It would be best to work this problem using a known good PS/2 keyboard. Do the "function keys" work on another computer? You said the keyboard works with your "Linux Puppy" disk. Can you ensure this keyboard's function keys work with your "Linux Puppy" boot on this computer?

2. System BIOS CMOS Setup. Are you able to access CMOS setup utility from PS/2 keyboard during system startup (from a cold start)? And is this access via a function key (e.g. F1 or F2)?

3. Windows XP Boot Floppy. If floppy drive comes before hard drive in boot order, we can setup a floppy to control how Windows XP is booted. For example, we could use the debug version of Ntdetect.com: Ntdetect.chk from the Windows XP Service Pack 2 Support Tools. We can also setup a "Boot.ini" file to boot operating system with switches into whatever mode we want.

4. Windows XP Setup CD. The way I read the startup process, if you boot from the Windows XP Setup CD and it detects a Windows operating system on the hard drive; it will display "press any key to continue..." to permit you to default to a hard drive boot (by not pressing a key). If there's no operating system on the hard drive, you won't see this prompt. So... If it doesn't see an operating system, it will continue the boot from CD. And the hardware should be under the control of both the system BIOS and the software on the CD. This might permit a Windows XP installation to another hard drive.

5. Antivirus Software. Use a bootable CD, Avira AntiVir Rescue System, to scan your system for viruses. If the unbootable computer has internet access, you should be able to "update" the program and virus definitions contained on the CD. Comes up in "German". Look for "British" flag lower left when it comes up if you prefer English. I've run it SEVERAL times, but only on working systems. This is free for home personal use.

6. Hard Drive Diagnostics. Most hard drive manufacturers provide "free" diagnostic software that may be run from a bootable floppy or CD. You should be able to find download link for your drive's Make and Model Number on their support web page.

7. Memory Diagnostics. For what it's worth, you can also make a bootable floppy or CD to run memory diagnostics. Memtest86 is an excellent program for this. Look for the "Free Download" link on the left side of their home page.

8. Bootable Windows or Linux OS. Use a bootable operating system on floppy or CD that can read and write to the NTFS file system to modify the "boot.ini" file or add "ntdetect.chk" to the hard drive (assuming it has keyboard access like your Puppy Linux does).

9. Bare Bones Machine. At some point you may have to strip out and/or disable all of the nonessential components to eliminate them as the source of the problem. For example, booting the machine which is just motherboard, power supply, memory (one stick), video card, hard drive, maybe CD drive, monitor, mouse, and keyboard. Of course if keyboard works with Puppy Linux, it would seem to be unnecessary.Hi dahlarbear, thank you for your interest in my problem. I think we are on different time zones, I am British and I live in France where it is 11pm - my bedtime! Although some of what you say is over my head I will post a proper reply tomorrow [Tuesday]Fine. Don't try to address the entire post. Take points "1" and "2" first, and then tell me which of the other points, if any, you'd like to pursue.Hi dahlarbear, between your first and second responses I used gparted to reformat the hard drive and I removed the CMOS battery for a few minutes. I'm using a known good keyboard. When I boot with the XP installation disc in the optical drive I get the following sequence: The MaxData screen; "RealTek boot sequence [serial number] press shift and F10 to configure." I get no result; "Press any key to boot from CD... "pressing any key has no result. Finally I get the message "A kernel file is missing from the disk. Insert a system diskette and restart the system." The PC then hangs there. I have tried with 2 different XP DISCS. Any ideas?Have you entered bios and changed the boot order from HD to cd/dvd?Hi Karnac, I can't get into BIOS as the F keys [and all keys] are dead. I have tried 3 keyboards, all known good on other systems. The only time the keyboard works is in Linux Puppy, which boots no problem from the optical drive. I am not experienced in Linux and I don't know the command line syntax so I can't make progress there without help.Sorry old fool, should have reread the initial post instead of hooking up half way through...

When you tried the known good USB keyboard and it failed did you try different ports?.....sorry , have to ask.Hi Karnac, I have tried a PS/2 and a USB keyboard

I have a Windows XP Home Edition 2002 Service Pack 3.

When I go to control panel and click on display, nothing happeneds. if I keep trying, I will see the display window pop up for a split second then dissapear. Nothing else pops up.
Recently I've been able to access the display panel, but if I try to make any changes ( I want to change my theme back to XP theme) the computer takes a few seconds loading, the the display box just dissapears. No Changes are possible. In adition, whenever I change my screen saver It deletes my previous one!
Please help?
Thanks,
leftychickI think your hard drive may be cluttered and may have some viruses as well...

Uninstall any/all PROGRAMS that you don't use, then
Run a defrag.... Start>All Programs> accessories>system tools>defragmentor

It may take a while.. But when the defrag is done, download Malwarebytes, update it and run a full scan with it.....Download Spybot Search and Destroy as well (don't install the tea timer that comes with it), make sure you update it and run a scan... Also, update your current anit-virus program and run a scan with it...Thanks for your Reply! I guess I thought the same thing, because I've recently Uninstalled programs that I don't use- pritty much every single one I don't use. I also have recently defragged my computer, and ran a Disk clean up. I downloaded Malware bites a few months ago to get a nasty virus off, and it worked. So far, Malware bites, and my CA-anitvirus/spyware/etc- hasn't caught any viruses!
My desktop just changed though, and I had to restart my computer becuase It never finished booting up! I don't know if it has any connection with my problem, but mentioned this incase!
Thanks for your efforts! Any other Ideas?
leftychickQuote from: leftychick on August 12, 2009, 06:05:50 PM

I had to restart my computer becuase It never finished booting up!

Well my computer has a ton of Malware and Torjans, as seen in my other post. Most of the Malware was removed but iv'e decided to restore my computer. I have a Dell Microsoft Windows XP 2002 HOME edition SP3. I do not have a CD so i need my partition, i cant find it!, if im not making SENSE please correct me but im sure i need to press a key when my windows STARTS up, f2,f10,f11,f12,f8 are not working ! is there a chance the virus removed it ? SOMEONE please helpHi Jon. Seems like you have expected too much too soon. You'd have been best to stick with the Computer Viruses and Spyware forum and waited patiently until one of the CH Authorised Malware Removal Specialists got on your case. They are very very busy guys.

If you are definitely set on restoring to factory settings be aware you will lose all data files on your hard drive.

Before giving any advice we need to have some basics of your pc. You indicate it is a Dell but no mention of the model so we don't even know if we're trying to deal with a laptop, notebook or desktop. What is your hardware configuration (e.g. do you have a floppy disk drive, cdrom, dvd)? Your other posts show you are running Windows XP but what anti-virus do you use and do you have a third-party firewall?

Please read this for guidance on which info to supply.

And welcome to the CH forums.

From Aesop's fable, "The Tortoise and the Hare":
Quote

Slow and steady wins the race.

I have a Dell desktop computer with Windows Vista, relatively new computer. The computer is RARELY used, I myself don't USE it often because I don't live at home. Anyway, the computer has a free version of AVG Anti-Virus and whenever I launch Firefox it tells me it found a threat when opening it (firefox). It says the threat cannot be removed. The file location points to a cookie.sqlite. I uninstalled firefox and GOT the newest version and I made sure I had all the updates from Windows. I did a full computer scan with AVG and it found a BUNCH of similar threats in different cookies. I've removed all the cookies and uninstalled firefox so I'm not sure what's going on.

Any help would be great - if I need to provide any more info. LET me know.

Thanksafter you uninstall firefox go to run, and type %AppData% and look for the mozilla folder,you can delete it if firefox is the only thing from mozilla you have installed. try that and reinstall firefox also make sure avg is up to date program and definitions or try avira it better if you ask me!