Need help with invalid page fault in module EXPLORER.EXE

[rbryan]

I have the nightmarish problem that others have described but can't
successfully follow the advice others have been given. Here's the problem, in
a nutshell:

Whenever i try to start my win98se the windows makes it to the opening
backdrop with the message "explorer, this program has performed an illegal
operation and will be shut down". the details say " explorer caused an
invalid page fault in module explorer.exe at 0167:00401f31. I have no choice
but to close it and then have nothing at my disposal -- just wallpaper and a
useless mouse.

I've read remedies and though I have virtually no computer knowledge I feel
like I can follow them (kind of like a recipe). The posts I've seen tell me
to use my startup disk, go to "edit c:\windows\system.ini, and then under the
"boot" section change "shell=Explorer.exe" to "shell=Winfile.exe." Some I've
found say to alternatively change it to "shell=Progman.exe." Whichever is the
case, I'm able to make the change, save the change and restart the computer.
But when I restart the computer, the desciptions say my computer is supposed
to load to some sort of program manager (whatever that is) where I can then
take the next steps toward fixing my problem. But try as I might, whether I
change to "Winfile" or I change to "Progman," the computer loads exactly the
same way as it did before I changed the settings, and my computer-challenged
brain is left with nothing to do but shake my head.

Can someone at least get me beyond that step, and if I do, is there hope for
me? Thank you in advance for any assistance you can provide.

[Hugh Candlin]

"rbryan" > wrote in message
...
> I have the nightmarish problem that others have described but can't
> successfully follow the advice others have been given.

I don't know what others have advised, so I will simply ask

Have you tried this

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;q175930

[rbryan]

Hugh,
Thanks, but that doesn't sound like my problem. I will cut and paste the
suggested solution to what sounds exactly like my problem below. My problem
with this solution and others like it is that when I get to step (8) below,
rather than my computer starting in the windows file manager, it starts the
same way as it did before I performed steps 1-7, leaving me powerless to move
onto steps 9, 10, etc.

Here it is:

(1) Press CTRL+ALT+DELETE, & click Shut Down.

(2) After the computer has been shut down, turn on the computer. Hold
CTRL as you boot for the Startup Menu, or begin pressing the F8 key in
one-second intervals. If you complete this step successfully, the
Microsoft Windows Startup Menu is displayed. If no menu is displayed and
Windows starts up normally, repeat this step.

(3) At the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu, use the ARROW keys to select
"Command Prompt Only", and then press the ENTER key.

(4) At the command prompt, type:
EDIT C:\Windows\System.ini
Press ENTER.

(3) In the C:\Windows\SYSTEM.INI file, locate the line of text under the
[boot] section that lists "Shell=Explorer.exe". This is typically the
third line in the file.

(4) Edit the "Shell=Explorer.exe" line by deleting the "Explorer.exe"
text and replacing it with "Winfile.exe". The line should list the
following:
Shell=Winfile.exe

(5) To save the changes, press the ALT+F keys.

(6) A menu displays in the upper left corner of the screen. Press the X
key to exit.

(7) Press ENTER to save the changes and return to the command prompt.
(TAB would move you to the next button.)

(8) At the command prompt, restart the computer by pressing the
CTRL+ALT+DELETE keys. Once Windows has restarted, it starts into the
Windows File Manager (Winfile.exe).

(9) In the File Manager window, double-click "progra~1" in the left hand
window to open the Program Files folder.

(10) Double-click "intern~1" in the left hand window to open the
Internet Explorer folder.

(11) Double-click "setup" in the left hand window to open the Setup
folder.

(12) In the File Manager window, double-click "Setup.exe" in the right
hand window to launch Internet Explorer setup.

NOTE: If the setup folder is not available, Internet Explorer has not
been updated and a previous version of Internet Explorer cannot be
restored. You cannot use this method. Close "Winfile", shut down, & post
back, or try the URL at the very bottom of this post, which is an
over-install of IE.

(13) In the Internet Explorer 6 and Internet Tools Setup window, click
OK.

(14) In the Setup Message dialog box, click Yes to restore the previous
version of Internet Explorer.

(15) Internet Explorer setup removes components.

(16) In the Internet Explorer 6 and Internet Tools - Restart Windows
dialog box, click Restart Windows.

When the computer is restarting, hold CTRL for the Startup Menu, or
begin pressing the F8 key in one-second intervals. If you complete this
step successfully, the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu is displayed. If
no menu is displayed and Windows starts up normally, repeat this step.

(17) At the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu, use the ARROW keys to select
Command prompt only, and then press ENTER.

(18) At the command prompt, type:
EDIT C:\Windows\System.ini
Press ENTER.

(19) In the C:\Windows\SYSTEM.INI file, locate the line of text under
the [boot] section that lists "Shell=Winfile.exe". This is typically the
third line in the file.

(20) Edit the "Shell=Winfile.exe" line by deleting the "Winfile.exe"
text and replacing it with "Explorer.exe". The line should list the
following:
Shell=Explorer.exe

(21) To save the changes, press the ALT+F keys.

(22) A menu displays in the upper left corner of the screen. Press the X
key to exit.

(23) Press ENTER to save the changes and return to the command prompt.
(TAB would move you to the next button.)

(24) At the command prompt, restart the computer by pressing the
CTRL+ALT+DELETE keys

(25) Windows starts to a blue screen, but will still be
accessing the hard drive for a period of time. When
finished, Windows is on the desktop with icons, but an
older version of Internet Explorer is installed. You
should update your antivirus software, and then perform
Windows Update to install a new version of Internet
Explorer again.

[Gary S. Terhune]

Have you tried to start the system in Safe Mode?

--
Gary S. Terhune
MS MVP Shell/User
http://www.grystmill.com/articles/cleanboot.htm
http://www.grystmill.com/articles/security.htm

"rbryan" > wrote in message
...
> Hugh,
> Thanks, but that doesn't sound like my problem. I will cut and paste
the
> suggested solution to what sounds exactly like my problem below. My
problem
> with this solution and others like it is that when I get to step (8)
below,
> rather than my computer starting in the windows file manager, it
starts the
> same way as it did before I performed steps 1-7, leaving me powerless
to move
> onto steps 9, 10, etc.
>
> Here it is:
>
> (1) Press CTRL+ALT+DELETE, & click Shut Down.
>
> (2) After the computer has been shut down, turn on the computer. Hold
> CTRL as you boot for the Startup Menu, or begin pressing the F8 key in
> one-second intervals. If you complete this step successfully, the
> Microsoft Windows Startup Menu is displayed. If no menu is displayed
and
> Windows starts up normally, repeat this step.
>
> (3) At the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu, use the ARROW keys to
select
> "Command Prompt Only", and then press the ENTER key.
>
> (4) At the command prompt, type:
> EDIT C:\Windows\System.ini
> Press ENTER.
>
> (3) In the C:\Windows\SYSTEM.INI file, locate the line of text under
the
> [boot] section that lists "Shell=Explorer.exe". This is typically the
> third line in the file.
>
> (4) Edit the "Shell=Explorer.exe" line by deleting the "Explorer.exe"
> text and replacing it with "Winfile.exe". The line should list the
> following:
> Shell=Winfile.exe
>
> (5) To save the changes, press the ALT+F keys.
>
> (6) A menu displays in the upper left corner of the screen. Press the
X
> key to exit.
>
> (7) Press ENTER to save the changes and return to the command prompt.
> (TAB would move you to the next button.)
>
> (8) At the command prompt, restart the computer by pressing the
> CTRL+ALT+DELETE keys. Once Windows has restarted, it starts into the
> Windows File Manager (Winfile.exe).
>
> (9) In the File Manager window, double-click "progra~1" in the left
hand
> window to open the Program Files folder.
>
> (10) Double-click "intern~1" in the left hand window to open the
> Internet Explorer folder.
>
> (11) Double-click "setup" in the left hand window to open the Setup
> folder.
>
> (12) In the File Manager window, double-click "Setup.exe" in the right
> hand window to launch Internet Explorer setup.
>
> NOTE: If the setup folder is not available, Internet Explorer has not
> been updated and a previous version of Internet Explorer cannot be
> restored. You cannot use this method. Close "Winfile", shut down, &
post
> back, or try the URL at the very bottom of this post, which is an
> over-install of IE.
>
> (13) In the Internet Explorer 6 and Internet Tools Setup window, click
> OK.
>
> (14) In the Setup Message dialog box, click Yes to restore the
previous
> version of Internet Explorer.
>
> (15) Internet Explorer setup removes components.
>
> (16) In the Internet Explorer 6 and Internet Tools - Restart Windows
> dialog box, click Restart Windows.
>
> When the computer is restarting, hold CTRL for the Startup Menu, or
> begin pressing the F8 key in one-second intervals. If you complete
this
> step successfully, the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu is displayed. If
> no menu is displayed and Windows starts up normally, repeat this step.
>
> (17) At the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu, use the ARROW keys to
select
> Command prompt only, and then press ENTER.
>
> (18) At the command prompt, type:
> EDIT C:\Windows\System.ini
> Press ENTER.
>
> (19) In the C:\Windows\SYSTEM.INI file, locate the line of text under
> the [boot] section that lists "Shell=Winfile.exe". This is typically
the
> third line in the file.
>
> (20) Edit the "Shell=Winfile.exe" line by deleting the "Winfile.exe"
> text and replacing it with "Explorer.exe". The line should list the
> following:
> Shell=Explorer.exe
>
> (21) To save the changes, press the ALT+F keys.
>
> (22) A menu displays in the upper left corner of the screen. Press the
X
> key to exit.
>
> (23) Press ENTER to save the changes and return to the command prompt.
> (TAB would move you to the next button.)
>
> (24) At the command prompt, restart the computer by pressing the
> CTRL+ALT+DELETE keys
>
> (25) Windows starts to a blue screen, but will still be
> accessing the hard drive for a period of time. When
> finished, Windows is on the desktop with icons, but an
> older version of Internet Explorer is installed. You
> should update your antivirus software, and then perform
> Windows Update to install a new version of Internet
> Explorer again.
>
>

[PCR]

It sounds like you did it right. I'm scratching my head too. In the
meantime, here is another article...

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;312488&Product=w98
Error Message When You Restart Your Computer "Explorer Caused an
Exception 6d007eH in Module Explorer.exe"
(312488) - When you restart your computer after you install a program,
you may receive the following error message: This program has performed
an illegal operation and will be shut down. If the problem persists,
contact the program vendor. When you click...


--
Thanks or Good Luck,
There may be humor in this post, and,
Naturally, you will not sue,
should things get worse after this,
PCR

"rbryan" > wrote in message
...
| Hugh,
| Thanks, but that doesn't sound like my problem. I will cut and paste
the
| suggested solution to what sounds exactly like my problem below. My
problem
| with this solution and others like it is that when I get to step (8)
below,
| rather than my computer starting in the windows file manager, it
starts the
| same way as it did before I performed steps 1-7, leaving me powerless
to move
| onto steps 9, 10, etc.
|
| Here it is:
|
| (1) Press CTRL+ALT+DELETE, & click Shut Down.
|
| (2) After the computer has been shut down, turn on the computer. Hold
| CTRL as you boot for the Startup Menu, or begin pressing the F8 key in
| one-second intervals. If you complete this step successfully, the
| Microsoft Windows Startup Menu is displayed. If no menu is displayed
and
| Windows starts up normally, repeat this step.
|
| (3) At the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu, use the ARROW keys to
select
| "Command Prompt Only", and then press the ENTER key.
|
| (4) At the command prompt, type:
| EDIT C:\Windows\System.ini
| Press ENTER.
|
| (3) In the C:\Windows\SYSTEM.INI file, locate the line of text under
the
| [boot] section that lists "Shell=Explorer.exe". This is typically the
| third line in the file.
|
| (4) Edit the "Shell=Explorer.exe" line by deleting the "Explorer.exe"
| text and replacing it with "Winfile.exe". The line should list the
| following:
| Shell=Winfile.exe
|
| (5) To save the changes, press the ALT+F keys.
|
| (6) A menu displays in the upper left corner of the screen. Press the
X
| key to exit.
|
| (7) Press ENTER to save the changes and return to the command prompt.
| (TAB would move you to the next button.)
|
| (8) At the command prompt, restart the computer by pressing the
| CTRL+ALT+DELETE keys. Once Windows has restarted, it starts into the
| Windows File Manager (Winfile.exe).
|
| (9) In the File Manager window, double-click "progra~1" in the left
hand
| window to open the Program Files folder.
|
| (10) Double-click "intern~1" in the left hand window to open the
| Internet Explorer folder.
|
| (11) Double-click "setup" in the left hand window to open the Setup
| folder.
|
| (12) In the File Manager window, double-click "Setup.exe" in the right
| hand window to launch Internet Explorer setup.
|
| NOTE: If the setup folder is not available, Internet Explorer has not
| been updated and a previous version of Internet Explorer cannot be
| restored. You cannot use this method. Close "Winfile", shut down, &
post
| back, or try the URL at the very bottom of this post, which is an
| over-install of IE.
|
| (13) In the Internet Explorer 6 and Internet Tools Setup window, click
| OK.
|
| (14) In the Setup Message dialog box, click Yes to restore the
previous
| version of Internet Explorer.
|
| (15) Internet Explorer setup removes components.
|
| (16) In the Internet Explorer 6 and Internet Tools - Restart Windows
| dialog box, click Restart Windows.
|
| When the computer is restarting, hold CTRL for the Startup Menu, or
| begin pressing the F8 key in one-second intervals. If you complete
this
| step successfully, the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu is displayed. If
| no menu is displayed and Windows starts up normally, repeat this step.
|
| (17) At the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu, use the ARROW keys to
select
| Command prompt only, and then press ENTER.
|
| (18) At the command prompt, type:
| EDIT C:\Windows\System.ini
| Press ENTER.
|
| (19) In the C:\Windows\SYSTEM.INI file, locate the line of text under
| the [boot] section that lists "Shell=Winfile.exe". This is typically
the
| third line in the file.
|
| (20) Edit the "Shell=Winfile.exe" line by deleting the "Winfile.exe"
| text and replacing it with "Explorer.exe". The line should list the
| following:
| Shell=Explorer.exe
|
| (21) To save the changes, press the ALT+F keys.
|
| (22) A menu displays in the upper left corner of the screen. Press the
X
| key to exit.
|
| (23) Press ENTER to save the changes and return to the command prompt.
| (TAB would move you to the next button.)
|
| (24) At the command prompt, restart the computer by pressing the
| CTRL+ALT+DELETE keys
|
| (25) Windows starts to a blue screen, but will still be
| accessing the hard drive for a period of time. When
| finished, Windows is on the desktop with icons, but an
| older version of Internet Explorer is installed. You
| should update your antivirus software, and then perform
| Windows Update to install a new version of Internet
| Explorer again.
|
|

[PSYCHOPIXIE]

I'm sure I'm being really thick by asking this but if you get illegal operations I guess it does clearly indicate a damaged program file somewhere so if you need to temporarily replace it with an older version can you not do so using version conflict manager(question mark). I'm sure I'm being a real dummy here, but I noticed it contains previous versions of various files.


It sounds like you did it right. I'm scratching my head too. In the
meantime, here is another article...

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;312488&Product=w98
Error Message When You Restart Your Computer "Explorer Caused an
Exception 6d007eH in Module Explorer.exe"
(312488) - When you restart your computer after you install a program,
you may receive the following error message: This program has performed
an illegal operation and will be shut down. If the problem persists,
contact the program vendor. When you click...


--
Thanks or Good Luck,
There may be humor in this post, and,
Naturally, you will not sue,
should things get worse after this,
PCR

"rbryan" wrote in message
...
| Hugh,
| Thanks, but that doesn't sound like my problem. I will cut and paste
the
| suggested solution to what sounds exactly like my problem below. My
problem
| with this solution and others like it is that when I get to step (8)
below,
| rather than my computer starting in the windows file manager, it
starts the
| same way as it did before I performed steps 1-7, leaving me powerless
to move
| onto steps 9, 10, etc.
|
| Here it is:
|
| (1) Press CTRL+ALT+DELETE, & click Shut Down.
|
| (2) After the computer has been shut down, turn on the computer. Hold
| CTRL as you boot for the Startup Menu, or begin pressing the F8 key in
| one-second intervals. If you complete this step successfully, the
| Microsoft Windows Startup Menu is displayed. If no menu is displayed
and
| Windows starts up normally, repeat this step.
|
| (3) At the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu, use the ARROW keys to
select
| "Command Prompt Only", and then press the ENTER key.
|
| (4) At the command prompt, type:
| EDIT C:\Windows\System.ini
| Press ENTER.
|
| (3) In the C:\Windows\SYSTEM.INI file, locate the line of text under
the
| [boot] section that lists "Shell=Explorer.exe". This is typically the
| third line in the file.
|
| (4) Edit the "Shell=Explorer.exe" line by deleting the "Explorer.exe"
| text and replacing it with "Winfile.exe". The line should list the
| following:
| Shell=Winfile.exe
|
| (5) To save the changes, press the ALT+F keys.
|
| (6) A menu displays in the upper left corner of the screen. Press the
X
| key to exit.
|
| (7) Press ENTER to save the changes and return to the command prompt.
| (TAB would move you to the next button.)
|
| (8) At the command prompt, restart the computer by pressing the
| CTRL+ALT+DELETE keys. Once Windows has restarted, it starts into the
| Windows File Manager (Winfile.exe).
|
| (9) In the File Manager window, double-click "progra~1" in the left
hand
| window to open the Program Files folder.
|
| (10) Double-click "intern~1" in the left hand window to open the
| Internet Explorer folder.
|
| (11) Double-click "setup" in the left hand window to open the Setup
| folder.
|
| (12) In the File Manager window, double-click "Setup.exe" in the right
| hand window to launch Internet Explorer setup.
|
| NOTE: If the setup folder is not available, Internet Explorer has not
| been updated and a previous version of Internet Explorer cannot be
| restored. You cannot use this method. Close "Winfile", shut down, &
post
| back, or try the URL at the very bottom of this post, which is an
| over-install of IE.
|
| (13) In the Internet Explorer 6 and Internet Tools Setup window, click
| OK.
|
| (14) In the Setup Message dialog box, click Yes to restore the
previous
| version of Internet Explorer.
|
| (15) Internet Explorer setup removes components.
|
| (16) In the Internet Explorer 6 and Internet Tools - Restart Windows
| dialog box, click Restart Windows.
|
| When the computer is restarting, hold CTRL for the Startup Menu, or
| begin pressing the F8 key in one-second intervals. If you complete
this
| step successfully, the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu is displayed. If
| no menu is displayed and Windows starts up normally, repeat this step.
|
| (17) At the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu, use the ARROW keys to
select
| Command prompt only, and then press ENTER.
|
| (18) At the command prompt, type:
| EDIT C:\Windows\System.ini
| Press ENTER.
|
| (19) In the C:\Windows\SYSTEM.INI file, locate the line of text under
| the [boot] section that lists "Shell=Winfile.exe". This is typically
the
| third line in the file.
|
| (20) Edit the "Shell=Winfile.exe" line by deleting the "Winfile.exe"
| text and replacing it with "Explorer.exe". The line should list the
| following:
| Shell=Explorer.exe
|
| (21) To save the changes, press the ALT+F keys.
|
| (22) A menu displays in the upper left corner of the screen. Press the
X
| key to exit.
|
| (23) Press ENTER to save the changes and return to the command prompt.
| (TAB would move you to the next button.)
|
| (24) At the command prompt, restart the computer by pressing the
| CTRL+ALT+DELETE keys
|
| (25) Windows starts to a blue screen, but will still be
| accessing the hard drive for a period of time. When
| finished, Windows is on the desktop with icons, but an
| older version of Internet Explorer is installed. You
| should update your antivirus software, and then perform
| Windows Update to install a new version of Internet
| Explorer again.
|
|

[Hugh Candlin]

"rbryan" > wrote in message
...
> Hugh,
> Thanks, but that doesn't sound like my problem. I will cut and paste the
> suggested solution to what sounds exactly like my problem below. My
problem
> with this solution and others like it is that when I get to step (8)
below,
> rather than my computer starting in the windows file manager, it starts
the
> same way as it did before I performed steps 1-7, leaving me powerless to
move
> onto steps 9, 10, etc.

Are you able to run MSCONFIG ?

On the General tab,
is the "Process System.Ini file" option enabled ?

On the System.Ini tab,
is the Boot section enabled ?

What is the Modified date of C:\Windows\Explorer.Exe ?
Have you tried replacing that file
with the file from your OS CD ?

Do you also have a C:\Explorer.Exe ? You should NOT.

[PCR]

It seems Candlin came up with cogent questions for you.

(1) Naturally, if MSConfig is set to bypass System.ini, you would get
the effect you have described. Then... Perhaps try a "Step by Step"
boot. Perhaps it will still give you the option to process System.ini.

(2) Independently of Candlin, I also thought of "C:\Explorer.exe",
meaning you have a virus. That is where the virus would deposit it.
Rename or delete that one. Then, you must EXTRACT the original file, &
put it into "C:\WINDOWS", where it belongs...

EXPLORER.EXE
Desc: Windows Explorer
Loc: C:\WINDOWS
Size: 180,224 bytes
Mod: Friday, April 23, 1999 10:22:00 PM
Ver: 4.72.3110.1

(a) Boot to DOS.
Hold CNTR for the Startup Menu, & select "Command Prompt Only"

(b) At DOS, enter...
"EXTRACT /a /L C:\Windows <LOC>\Base4.cab Explorer.exe"

That is all one line between the quotes with 5 spaces, but do not enter
the quotes. It will offer to overwite, if one is already there.

<LOC> is the location of "Base4.cab". This may be discovered as
follows...

C:\>DIR /s /a C:\base4.cab
Directory of C:\WINDOWS\OPTIONS\CABS
BASE4 CAB 168,960 04-23-99 10:22p BASE4.CAB
1 file(s) 168,960 bytes

If you have the .cabs on a CD, you will use your CD-ROM drive letter,
instead of "C:\" in that DIR command.

So, in my case, the command is...

"EXTRACT /a /L C:\Windows\System C:\WINDOWS\OPTIONS\CABS\Base4.cab
Explorer.exe"

All one line: no quotes: there are 5 spaces in the line, including one
after "Base4.cab".

(3) It could be your over-install of Windows messed with Explorer.exe.
Problem is, that file never was updated, so far as I can tell from it's
date. Still, here is what I have on Version Conflict Manager. One of
these will say how to get the original back from "C:\Windows\VCM".

http://search.support.microsoft.com/kb/c.asp?fr=0&SD=GN&LN=EN-US MSKB
Search "Version Conflict Manager"; Windows 98; Full Text; Exact Phrase;
comes up with four...

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;186157&Product=w98
Description of the Version Conflict Manager Tool in Windows 98
(186157) - This article describes the Version Conflict Manager
tool(Vcmui.exe) included in Windows 98. You can use the Version Conflict
Manager tool to troubleshoot problems that may occur after you install a
program. NOTE: The Windows 98 Help topic "Version...

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;184585&Product=w98
Files Not Backed Up Using the Version Conflict Manager Tool
(184585) - When you use the Version Conflict Manager tool to restore the
newer versions of files that were overwritten by Windows 98 Setup, the
files are properly restored, but the original Windows 98 files may be
lost.

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;188307&Product=w98
List of Documentation Errors in Windows 98 Resource Kit
(188307) - This article lists known documentation errors in the
Microsoft Windows 98 Resource Kit and the Microsoft Windows 98 Resource
Kit Book Online located in the Tools\Reskit\Help folder on the Windows
98 CD-ROM. The following known documentation errors are...

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;184075&Product=w98
Description of Microsoft System Information (Msinfo32.exe) Tool
(184075) - Windows 98 includes a tool called Microsoft System
Information (Msinfo32.exe). This tool can be used to gather information
about your computer, to diagnose issues with your computer, or to access
other tools that are included with Windows 98. This...


--
Thanks or Good Luck,
There may be humor in this post, and,
Naturally, you will not sue,
should things get worse after this,
PCR

"PSYCHOPIXIE" > wrote in message
...
|
| I'm sure I'm being really thick by asking this but if you get illegal
| operations I guess it does clearly indicate a damaged program file
| somewhere so if you need to temporarily replace it with an older
| version can you not do so using version conflict manager(question
| mark). I'm sure I'm being a real dummy here, but I noticed it contains
| previous versions of various files.
|
|
| PCR Wrote:
| > It sounds like you did it right. I'm scratching my head too. In the
| > meantime, here is another article...
| >
| > http://tinyurl.com/3zdah
| > Error Message When You Restart Your Computer "Explorer Caused an
| > Exception 6d007eH in Module Explorer.exe"
| > (312488) - When you restart your computer after you install a
program,
| > you may receive the following error message: This program has
| > performed
| > an illegal operation and will be shut down. If the problem persists,
| > contact the program vendor. When you click...
| >
| >
| > --
| > Thanks or Good Luck,
| > There may be humor in this post, and,
| > Naturally, you will not sue,
| > should things get worse after this,
| > PCR
| >
| > "rbryan" wrote in message
| > ...
| > | Hugh,
| > | Thanks, but that doesn't sound like my problem. I will cut and
paste
| > the
| > | suggested solution to what sounds exactly like my problem below.
My
| > problem
| > | with this solution and others like it is that when I get to step
(8)
| > below,
| > | rather than my computer starting in the windows file manager, it
| > starts the
| > | same way as it did before I performed steps 1-7, leaving me
| > powerless
| > to move
| > | onto steps 9, 10, etc.
| > |
| > | Here it is:
| > |
| > | (1) Press CTRL+ALT+DELETE, & click Shut Down.
| > |
| > | (2) After the computer has been shut down, turn on the computer.
| > Hold
| > | CTRL as you boot for the Startup Menu, or begin pressing the F8
key
| > in
| > | one-second intervals. If you complete this step successfully, the
| > | Microsoft Windows Startup Menu is displayed. If no menu is
displayed
| > and
| > | Windows starts up normally, repeat this step.
| > |
| > | (3) At the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu, use the ARROW keys to
| > select
| > | "Command Prompt Only", and then press the ENTER key.
| > |
| > | (4) At the command prompt, type:
| > | EDIT C:\Windows\System.ini
| > | Press ENTER.
| > |
| > | (3) In the C:\Windows\SYSTEM.INI file, locate the line of text
under
| > the
| > | [boot] section that lists "Shell=Explorer.exe". This is typically
| > the
| > | third line in the file.
| > |
| > | (4) Edit the "Shell=Explorer.exe" line by deleting the
| > "Explorer.exe"
| > | text and replacing it with "Winfile.exe". The line should list the
| > | following:
| > | Shell=Winfile.exe
| > |
| > | (5) To save the changes, press the ALT+F keys.
| > |
| > | (6) A menu displays in the upper left corner of the screen. Press
| > the
| > X
| > | key to exit.
| > |
| > | (7) Press ENTER to save the changes and return to the command
| > prompt.
| > | (TAB would move you to the next button.)
| > |
| > | (8) At the command prompt, restart the computer by pressing the
| > | CTRL+ALT+DELETE keys. Once Windows has restarted, it starts into
the
| > | Windows File Manager (Winfile.exe).
| > |
| > | (9) In the File Manager window, double-click "progra~1" in the
left
| > hand
| > | window to open the Program Files folder.
| > |
| > | (10) Double-click "intern~1" in the left hand window to open the
| > | Internet Explorer folder.
| > |
| > | (11) Double-click "setup" in the left hand window to open the
Setup
| > | folder.
| > |
| > | (12) In the File Manager window, double-click "Setup.exe" in the
| > right
| > | hand window to launch Internet Explorer setup.
| > |
| > | NOTE: If the setup folder is not available, Internet Explorer has
| > not
| > | been updated and a previous version of Internet Explorer cannot be
| > | restored. You cannot use this method. Close "Winfile", shut down,
&
| > post
| > | back, or try the URL at the very bottom of this post, which is an
| > | over-install of IE.
| > |
| > | (13) In the Internet Explorer 6 and Internet Tools Setup window,
| > click
| > | OK.
| > |
| > | (14) In the Setup Message dialog box, click Yes to restore the
| > previous
| > | version of Internet Explorer.
| > |
| > | (15) Internet Explorer setup removes components.
| > |
| > | (16) In the Internet Explorer 6 and Internet Tools - Restart
Windows
| > | dialog box, click Restart Windows.
| > |
| > | When the computer is restarting, hold CTRL for the Startup Menu,
or
| > | begin pressing the F8 key in one-second intervals. If you complete
| > this
| > | step successfully, the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu is
displayed.
| > If
| > | no menu is displayed and Windows starts up normally, repeat this
| > step.
| > |
| > | (17) At the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu, use the ARROW keys to
| > select
| > | Command prompt only, and then press ENTER.
| > |
| > | (18) At the command prompt, type:
| > | EDIT C:\Windows\System.ini
| > | Press ENTER.
| > |
| > | (19) In the C:\Windows\SYSTEM.INI file, locate the line of text
| > under
| > | the [boot] section that lists "Shell=Winfile.exe". This is
typically
| > the
| > | third line in the file.
| > |
| > | (20) Edit the "Shell=Winfile.exe" line by deleting the
"Winfile.exe"
| > | text and replacing it with "Explorer.exe". The line should list
the
| > | following:
| > | Shell=Explorer.exe
| > |
| > | (21) To save the changes, press the ALT+F keys.
| > |
| > | (22) A menu displays in the upper left corner of the screen. Press
| > the
| > X
| > | key to exit.
| > |
| > | (23) Press ENTER to save the changes and return to the command
| > prompt.
| > | (TAB would move you to the next button.)
| > |
| > | (24) At the command prompt, restart the computer by pressing the
| > | CTRL+ALT+DELETE keys
| > |
| > | (25) Windows starts to a blue screen, but will still be
| > | accessing the hard drive for a period of time. When
| > | finished, Windows is on the desktop with icons, but an
| > | older version of Internet Explorer is installed. You
| > | should update your antivirus software, and then perform
| > | Windows Update to install a new version of Internet
| > | Explorer again.
| > |
| > |
|
|
| --
| PSYCHOPIXIE

[PCR]

| "EXTRACT /a /L C:\Windows\System C:\WINDOWS\OPTIONS\CABS\Base4.cab
| Explorer.exe"

OOPS... the command in my case would be...

"EXTRACT /a /L C:\Windows C:\WINDOWS\OPTIONS\CABS\Base4.cab
Explorer.exe"

IT GOES IN "C:\Windows".


--
Thanks or Good Luck,
There may be humor in this post, and,
Naturally, you will not sue,
should things get worse after this,
PCR

"PCR" > wrote in message
...
| It seems Candlin came up with cogent questions for you.
|
| (1) Naturally, if MSConfig is set to bypass System.ini, you would get
| the effect you have described. Then... Perhaps try a "Step by Step"
| boot. Perhaps it will still give you the option to process System.ini.
|
| (2) Independently of Candlin, I also thought of "C:\Explorer.exe",
| meaning you have a virus. That is where the virus would deposit it.
| Rename or delete that one. Then, you must EXTRACT the original file, &
| put it into "C:\WINDOWS", where it belongs...
|
| EXPLORER.EXE
| Desc: Windows Explorer
| Loc: C:\WINDOWS
| Size: 180,224 bytes
| Mod: Friday, April 23, 1999 10:22:00 PM
| Ver: 4.72.3110.1
|
| (a) Boot to DOS.
| Hold CNTR for the Startup Menu, & select "Command Prompt Only"
|
| (b) At DOS, enter...
| "EXTRACT /a /L C:\Windows <LOC>\Base4.cab Explorer.exe"
|
| That is all one line between the quotes with 5 spaces, but do not
enter
| the quotes. It will offer to overwite, if one is already there.
|
| <LOC> is the location of "Base4.cab". This may be discovered as
| follows...
|
| C:\>DIR /s /a C:\base4.cab
| Directory of C:\WINDOWS\OPTIONS\CABS
| BASE4 CAB 168,960 04-23-99 10:22p BASE4.CAB
| 1 file(s) 168,960 bytes
|
| If you have the .cabs on a CD, you will use your CD-ROM drive letter,
| instead of "C:\" in that DIR command.
|
| So, in my case, the command is...
|
| "EXTRACT /a /L C:\Windows\System C:\WINDOWS\OPTIONS\CABS\Base4.cab
| Explorer.exe"
|
| All one line: no quotes: there are 5 spaces in the line, including one
| after "Base4.cab".
|
| (3) It could be your over-install of Windows messed with Explorer.exe.
| Problem is, that file never was updated, so far as I can tell from
it's
| date. Still, here is what I have on Version Conflict Manager. One of
| these will say how to get the original back from "C:\Windows\VCM".
|
| http://search.support.microsoft.com/kb/c.asp?fr=0&SD=GN&LN=EN-US MSKB
| Search "Version Conflict Manager"; Windows 98; Full Text; Exact
Phrase;
| comes up with four...
|
|
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;186157&Product=w98
| Description of the Version Conflict Manager Tool in Windows 98
| (186157) - This article describes the Version Conflict Manager
| tool(Vcmui.exe) included in Windows 98. You can use the Version
Conflict
| Manager tool to troubleshoot problems that may occur after you install
a
| program. NOTE: The Windows 98 Help topic "Version...
|
|
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;184585&Product=w98
| Files Not Backed Up Using the Version Conflict Manager Tool
| (184585) - When you use the Version Conflict Manager tool to restore
the
| newer versions of files that were overwritten by Windows 98 Setup, the
| files are properly restored, but the original Windows 98 files may be
| lost.
|
|
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;188307&Product=w98
| List of Documentation Errors in Windows 98 Resource Kit
| (188307) - This article lists known documentation errors in the
| Microsoft Windows 98 Resource Kit and the Microsoft Windows 98
Resource
| Kit Book Online located in the Tools\Reskit\Help folder on the Windows
| 98 CD-ROM. The following known documentation errors are...
|
|
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;184075&Product=w98
| Description of Microsoft System Information (Msinfo32.exe) Tool
| (184075) - Windows 98 includes a tool called Microsoft System
| Information (Msinfo32.exe). This tool can be used to gather
information
| about your computer, to diagnose issues with your computer, or to
access
| other tools that are included with Windows 98. This...
|
|
| --
| Thanks or Good Luck,
| There may be humor in this post, and,
| Naturally, you will not sue,
| should things get worse after this,
| PCR
|
| "PSYCHOPIXIE" > wrote in
message
| ...
| |
| | I'm sure I'm being really thick by asking this but if you get
illegal
| | operations I guess it does clearly indicate a damaged program file
| | somewhere so if you need to temporarily replace it with an older
| | version can you not do so using version conflict manager(question
| | mark). I'm sure I'm being a real dummy here, but I noticed it
contains
| | previous versions of various files.
| |
| |
| | PCR Wrote:
| | > It sounds like you did it right. I'm scratching my head too. In
the
| | > meantime, here is another article...
| | >
| | > http://tinyurl.com/3zdah
| | > Error Message When You Restart Your Computer "Explorer Caused an
| | > Exception 6d007eH in Module Explorer.exe"
| | > (312488) - When you restart your computer after you install a
| program,
| | > you may receive the following error message: This program has
| | > performed
| | > an illegal operation and will be shut down. If the problem
persists,
| | > contact the program vendor. When you click...
| | >
| | >
| | > --
| | > Thanks or Good Luck,
| | > There may be humor in this post, and,
| | > Naturally, you will not sue,
| | > should things get worse after this,
| | > PCR
| | >
| | > "rbryan" wrote in message
| | > ...
| | > | Hugh,
| | > | Thanks, but that doesn't sound like my problem. I will cut and
| paste
| | > the
| | > | suggested solution to what sounds exactly like my problem below.
| My
| | > problem
| | > | with this solution and others like it is that when I get to step
| (8)
| | > below,
| | > | rather than my computer starting in the windows file manager, it
| | > starts the
| | > | same way as it did before I performed steps 1-7, leaving me
| | > powerless
| | > to move
| | > | onto steps 9, 10, etc.
| | > |
| | > | Here it is:
| | > |
| | > | (1) Press CTRL+ALT+DELETE, & click Shut Down.
| | > |
| | > | (2) After the computer has been shut down, turn on the computer.
| | > Hold
| | > | CTRL as you boot for the Startup Menu, or begin pressing the F8
| key
| | > in
| | > | one-second intervals. If you complete this step successfully,
the
| | > | Microsoft Windows Startup Menu is displayed. If no menu is
| displayed
| | > and
| | > | Windows starts up normally, repeat this step.
| | > |
| | > | (3) At the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu, use the ARROW keys to
| | > select
| | > | "Command Prompt Only", and then press the ENTER key.
| | > |
| | > | (4) At the command prompt, type:
| | > | EDIT C:\Windows\System.ini
| | > | Press ENTER.
| | > |
| | > | (3) In the C:\Windows\SYSTEM.INI file, locate the line of text
| under
| | > the
| | > | [boot] section that lists "Shell=Explorer.exe". This is
typically
| | > the
| | > | third line in the file.
| | > |
| | > | (4) Edit the "Shell=Explorer.exe" line by deleting the
| | > "Explorer.exe"
| | > | text and replacing it with "Winfile.exe". The line should list
the
| | > | following:
| | > | Shell=Winfile.exe
| | > |
| | > | (5) To save the changes, press the ALT+F keys.
| | > |
| | > | (6) A menu displays in the upper left corner of the screen.
Press
| | > the
| | > X
| | > | key to exit.
| | > |
| | > | (7) Press ENTER to save the changes and return to the command
| | > prompt.
| | > | (TAB would move you to the next button.)
| | > |
| | > | (8) At the command prompt, restart the computer by pressing the
| | > | CTRL+ALT+DELETE keys. Once Windows has restarted, it starts into
| the
| | > | Windows File Manager (Winfile.exe).
| | > |
| | > | (9) In the File Manager window, double-click "progra~1" in the
| left
| | > hand
| | > | window to open the Program Files folder.
| | > |
| | > | (10) Double-click "intern~1" in the left hand window to open the
| | > | Internet Explorer folder.
| | > |
| | > | (11) Double-click "setup" in the left hand window to open the
| Setup
| | > | folder.
| | > |
| | > | (12) In the File Manager window, double-click "Setup.exe" in the
| | > right
| | > | hand window to launch Internet Explorer setup.
| | > |
| | > | NOTE: If the setup folder is not available, Internet Explorer
has
| | > not
| | > | been updated and a previous version of Internet Explorer cannot
be
| | > | restored. You cannot use this method. Close "Winfile", shut
down,
| &
| | > post
| | > | back, or try the URL at the very bottom of this post, which is
an
| | > | over-install of IE.
| | > |
| | > | (13) In the Internet Explorer 6 and Internet Tools Setup window,
| | > click
| | > | OK.
| | > |
| | > | (14) In the Setup Message dialog box, click Yes to restore the
| | > previous
| | > | version of Internet Explorer.
| | > |
| | > | (15) Internet Explorer setup removes components.
| | > |
| | > | (16) In the Internet Explorer 6 and Internet Tools - Restart
| Windows
| | > | dialog box, click Restart Windows.
| | > |
| | > | When the computer is restarting, hold CTRL for the Startup Menu,
| or
| | > | begin pressing the F8 key in one-second intervals. If you
complete
| | > this
| | > | step successfully, the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu is
| displayed.
| | > If
| | > | no menu is displayed and Windows starts up normally, repeat this
| | > step.
| | > |
| | > | (17) At the Microsoft Windows Startup Menu, use the ARROW keys
to
| | > select
| | > | Command prompt only, and then press ENTER.
| | > |
| | > | (18) At the command prompt, type:
| | > | EDIT C:\Windows\System.ini
| | > | Press ENTER.
| | > |
| | > | (19) In the C:\Windows\SYSTEM.INI file, locate the line of text
| | > under
| | > | the [boot] section that lists "Shell=Winfile.exe". This is
| typically
| | > the
| | > | third line in the file.
| | > |
| | > | (20) Edit the "Shell=Winfile.exe" line by deleting the
| "Winfile.exe"
| | > | text and replacing it with "Explorer.exe". The line should list
| the
| | > | following:
| | > | Shell=Explorer.exe
| | > |
| | > | (21) To save the changes, press the ALT+F keys.
| | > |
| | > | (22) A menu displays in the upper left corner of the screen.
Press
| | > the
| | > X
| | > | key to exit.
| | > |
| | > | (23) Press ENTER to save the changes and return to the command
| | > prompt.
| | > | (TAB would move you to the next button.)
| | > |
| | > | (24) At the command prompt, restart the computer by pressing the
| | > | CTRL+ALT+DELETE keys
| | > |
| | > | (25) Windows starts to a blue screen, but will still be
| | > | accessing the hard drive for a period of time. When
| | > | finished, Windows is on the desktop with icons, but an
| | > | older version of Internet Explorer is installed. You
| | > | should update your antivirus software, and then perform
| | > | Windows Update to install a new version of Internet
| | > | Explorer again.
| | > |
| | > |
| |
| |
| | --
| | PSYCHOPIXIE
|
|

[rbryan]

I appreciate everyone's attempt to help, but 1) I've been out of town for
24-plus hours and thus incapable of trying any of these suggestions, and 2)
My technical knowledge (which is virtually nill) makes much of the advice too
tough for me to follow.
Hugh, in your most recent response, you asked if I had tried to extract
that file from the OS CD? Is that something that likely would work, and if
so, how do you do that? If that makes sense to try, can someone get me
through it step by step.
Also, an earlier question asked me if I had started my computer in safe
mode. I have not; I do not know how to. Is that something I should try, and
if so, what am I trying in safe mode?
Thanks again.



"Hugh Candlin" wrote:

>
> "rbryan" > wrote in message
> ...
> > Hugh,
> > Thanks, but that doesn't sound like my problem. I will cut and paste the
> > suggested solution to what sounds exactly like my problem below. My
> problem
> > with this solution and others like it is that when I get to step (8)
> below,
> > rather than my computer starting in the windows file manager, it starts
> the
> > same way as it did before I performed steps 1-7, leaving me powerless to
> move
> > onto steps 9, 10, etc.
>
> Are you able to run MSCONFIG ?
>
> On the General tab,
> is the "Process System.Ini file" option enabled ?
>
> On the System.Ini tab,
> is the Boot section enabled ?
>
> What is the Modified date of C:\Windows\Explorer.Exe ?
> Have you tried replacing that file
> with the file from your OS CD ?
>
> Do you also have a C:\Explorer.Exe ? You should NOT.
>
>
>
>
>

[Gary S. Terhune]

Safe Mode is another option on the Startup Menu, which Hugh already
explained (the Startup Menu, that is)--where you might also choose
"Command Prompt Only" or other startup options. You get there by
pressing Ctrl or F8 key as Windows starts to load. Some times, when you
just hold down the appropriate key you get a "Stuck Key" error, in which
case you have to repeatedly press the proper key in order to get it
right.

--
Gary S. Terhune
MS MVP Shell/User
http://www.grystmill.com/articles/cleanboot.htm
http://www.grystmill.com/articles/security.htm

"rbryan" > wrote in message
...
> I appreciate everyone's attempt to help, but 1) I've been out of
town for
> 24-plus hours and thus incapable of trying any of these suggestions,
and 2)
> My technical knowledge (which is virtually nill) makes much of the
advice too
> tough for me to follow.
> Hugh, in your most recent response, you asked if I had tried to
extract
> that file from the OS CD? Is that something that likely would work,
and if
> so, how do you do that? If that makes sense to try, can someone get me
> through it step by step.
> Also, an earlier question asked me if I had started my computer in
safe
> mode. I have not; I do not know how to. Is that something I should
try, and
> if so, what am I trying in safe mode?
> Thanks again.
>
>
>
> "Hugh Candlin" wrote:
>
> >
> > "rbryan" > wrote in message
> > ...
> > > Hugh,
> > > Thanks, but that doesn't sound like my problem. I will cut and
paste the
> > > suggested solution to what sounds exactly like my problem below.
My
> > problem
> > > with this solution and others like it is that when I get to step
(8)
> > below,
> > > rather than my computer starting in the windows file manager, it
starts
> > the
> > > same way as it did before I performed steps 1-7, leaving me
powerless to
> > move
> > > onto steps 9, 10, etc.
> >
> > Are you able to run MSCONFIG ?
> >
> > On the General tab,
> > is the "Process System.Ini file" option enabled ?
> >
> > On the System.Ini tab,
> > is the Boot section enabled ?
> >
> > What is the Modified date of C:\Windows\Explorer.Exe ?
> > Have you tried replacing that file
> > with the file from your OS CD ?
> >
> > Do you also have a C:\Explorer.Exe ? You should NOT.
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >

[rbryan]

I have now tried it in safe mode and get the same invalid page fault
error. You asked if I'm able to run MSCONFIG...the answer is "maybe." That's
one of the two programs that is listed in the close program window when I hit
control-alt-delete. Does that mean I can run it? If so, how? And if so, what
am I trying to do?
I have both the recovery CD that came with my computer and a startup
floppy that I made when I added the 98 Second Edition updates. Are either of
those options? Again, being computer-clueless, I'm not sure but someone told
me that if I use the recovery disk and install everything again, I'll lose
all the programs on my hard drive. Is this true?
Simply put, I don't know what to do next.

"Gary S. Terhune" wrote:

> Safe Mode is another option on the Startup Menu, which Hugh already
> explained (the Startup Menu, that is)--where you might also choose
> "Command Prompt Only" or other startup options. You get there by
> pressing Ctrl or F8 key as Windows starts to load. Some times, when you
> just hold down the appropriate key you get a "Stuck Key" error, in which
> case you have to repeatedly press the proper key in order to get it
> right.
>
> --
> Gary S. Terhune
> MS MVP Shell/User
> http://www.grystmill.com/articles/cleanboot.htm
> http://www.grystmill.com/articles/security.htm
>
> "rbryan" > wrote in message
> ...
> > I appreciate everyone's attempt to help, but 1) I've been out of
> town for
> > 24-plus hours and thus incapable of trying any of these suggestions,
> and 2)
> > My technical knowledge (which is virtually nill) makes much of the
> advice too
> > tough for me to follow.
> > Hugh, in your most recent response, you asked if I had tried to
> extract
> > that file from the OS CD? Is that something that likely would work,
> and if
> > so, how do you do that? If that makes sense to try, can someone get me
> > through it step by step.
> > Also, an earlier question asked me if I had started my computer in
> safe
> > mode. I have not; I do not know how to. Is that something I should
> try, and
> > if so, what am I trying in safe mode?
> > Thanks again.
> >
> >
> >
> > "Hugh Candlin" wrote:
> >
> > >
> > > "rbryan" > wrote in message
> > > ...
> > > > Hugh,
> > > > Thanks, but that doesn't sound like my problem. I will cut and
> paste the
> > > > suggested solution to what sounds exactly like my problem below.
> My
> > > problem
> > > > with this solution and others like it is that when I get to step
> (8)
> > > below,
> > > > rather than my computer starting in the windows file manager, it
> starts
> > > the
> > > > same way as it did before I performed steps 1-7, leaving me
> powerless to
> > > move
> > > > onto steps 9, 10, etc.
> > >
> > > Are you able to run MSCONFIG ?
> > >
> > > On the General tab,
> > > is the "Process System.Ini file" option enabled ?
> > >
> > > On the System.Ini tab,
> > > is the Boot section enabled ?
> > >
> > > What is the Modified date of C:\Windows\Explorer.Exe ?
> > > Have you tried replacing that file
> > > with the file from your OS CD ?
> > >
> > > Do you also have a C:\Explorer.Exe ? You should NOT.
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
>
>

[rbryan]

Nevermind on me being able to run MSCONFIG..it was MSLOOP or something like
that that was available.

"rbryan" wrote:

> I have now tried it in safe mode and get the same invalid page fault
> error. You asked if I'm able to run MSCONFIG...the answer is "maybe." That's
> one of the two programs that is listed in the close program window when I hit
> control-alt-delete. Does that mean I can run it? If so, how? And if so, what
> am I trying to do?
> I have both the recovery CD that came with my computer and a startup
> floppy that I made when I added the 98 Second Edition updates. Are either of
> those options? Again, being computer-clueless, I'm not sure but someone told
> me that if I use the recovery disk and install everything again, I'll lose
> all the programs on my hard drive. Is this true?
> Simply put, I don't know what to do next.
>
> "Gary S. Terhune" wrote:
>
> > Safe Mode is another option on the Startup Menu, which Hugh already
> > explained (the Startup Menu, that is)--where you might also choose
> > "Command Prompt Only" or other startup options. You get there by
> > pressing Ctrl or F8 key as Windows starts to load. Some times, when you
> > just hold down the appropriate key you get a "Stuck Key" error, in which
> > case you have to repeatedly press the proper key in order to get it
> > right.
> >
> > --
> > Gary S. Terhune
> > MS MVP Shell/User
> > http://www.grystmill.com/articles/cleanboot.htm
> > http://www.grystmill.com/articles/security.htm
> >
> > "rbryan" > wrote in message
> > ...
> > > I appreciate everyone's attempt to help, but 1) I've been out of
> > town for
> > > 24-plus hours and thus incapable of trying any of these suggestions,
> > and 2)
> > > My technical knowledge (which is virtually nill) makes much of the
> > advice too
> > > tough for me to follow.
> > > Hugh, in your most recent response, you asked if I had tried to
> > extract
> > > that file from the OS CD? Is that something that likely would work,
> > and if
> > > so, how do you do that? If that makes sense to try, can someone get me
> > > through it step by step.
> > > Also, an earlier question asked me if I had started my computer in
> > safe
> > > mode. I have not; I do not know how to. Is that something I should
> > try, and
> > > if so, what am I trying in safe mode?
> > > Thanks again.
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > "Hugh Candlin" wrote:
> > >
> > > >
> > > > "rbryan" > wrote in message
> > > > ...
> > > > > Hugh,
> > > > > Thanks, but that doesn't sound like my problem. I will cut and
> > paste the
> > > > > suggested solution to what sounds exactly like my problem below.
> > My
> > > > problem
> > > > > with this solution and others like it is that when I get to step
> > (8)
> > > > below,
> > > > > rather than my computer starting in the windows file manager, it
> > starts
> > > > the
> > > > > same way as it did before I performed steps 1-7, leaving me
> > powerless to
> > > > move
> > > > > onto steps 9, 10, etc.
> > > >
> > > > Are you able to run MSCONFIG ?
> > > >
> > > > On the General tab,
> > > > is the "Process System.Ini file" option enabled ?
> > > >
> > > > On the System.Ini tab,
> > > > is the Boot section enabled ?
> > > >
> > > > What is the Modified date of C:\Windows\Explorer.Exe ?
> > > > Have you tried replacing that file
> > > > with the file from your OS CD ?
> > > >
> > > > Do you also have a C:\Explorer.Exe ? You should NOT.
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> >
> >

[Hugh Candlin]

"rbryan" > wrote in message
...

> I have now tried it in safe mode and get the same invalid page fault
> error.

That isn't good news. I think that your machine has been compromised.

> You asked if I'm able to run MSCONFIG...the answer is "maybe."

There are only 2 answers. Yes or No.

You are either able to run EXE and COM files, or you're not.
If you are, then that is good. If you're not, then that is bad,
and an almost sure sign of a compromised system

> That's one of the two programs that is listed in the close program window
> when I hit control-alt-delete.

That doesn't make much sense. It means that you have MSCONFIG
in your C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu\Programs\StartUp folder,
or intitated by an INI file.

> Does that mean I can run it?

That means that it is ALREADY running.

> If so, how? And if so, what am I trying to do?

You want to get to MSCONFIG to identify for us
the programs that are activated on Startup.

> I have both the recovery CD that came with my computer and a startup
> floppy that I made when I added the 98 Second Edition updates. Are either
of
> those options?

No. I repeat, No.

> Again, being computer-clueless, I'm not sure but someone told
> me that if I use the recovery disk and install everything again, I'll lose
> all the programs on my hard drive. Is this true?

No. Originally, Recovery, or System Restore disks, were designed
to RECOVER from a catastrophic error by allowing you
to RESTORE the status of your hard drive
back to what it was the day it showed up on your doorstep.

Any additional applications that you have installed,
any databases or spreadsheets or correspondence
or tax forms or pictures or songs that you have created
since then will VANISH.

You do NOT want to do that, do you?

> Simply put, I don't know what to do next.

Press a WINDOWS key. Either one will do.
There are 2 of them, on the bottom row of your keyboard.
They are called Windows keys because they have a picture
of a flying window on them.

Press the R key to open the RUN box

In the Open scroll box, type MSCONFIG

Click OK

Click the STARTUP tab

If MSLOOP is mentioned, remove the checkmark,
click OK, then restart your computer

If MSLOOP is NOT mentioned, then make a note of
the items that are mentioned and report back.

I still want to know the answer to my previous questions.
If someone asks you specific questions while trying to help you
in this NG, it is for a specific reason.
If you cannot follow the instructions given, then take the items
one at a time and post back, explaining how far you got,
so that we can determine exactly where the physical
or mental roadblock lies, and help you to get past it.

On the General tab,
is the "Process System.Ini file" option enabled ?

On the System.Ini tab,
is the Boot section enabled ?

What is the Modified date of C:\Windows\Explorer.Exe ?
Have you tried replacing that file with the file from your OS CD ?

Do you also have a C:\Explorer.Exe ? You should NOT.




>
> "Gary S. Terhune" wrote:
>
> > Safe Mode is another option on the Startup Menu, which Hugh already
> > explained (the Startup Menu, that is)--where you might also choose
> > "Command Prompt Only" or other startup options. You get there by
> > pressing Ctrl or F8 key as Windows starts to load. Some times, when you
> > just hold down the appropriate key you get a "Stuck Key" error, in which
> > case you have to repeatedly press the proper key in order to get it
> > right.
> >
> > --
> > Gary S. Terhune
> > MS MVP Shell/User
> > http://www.grystmill.com/articles/cleanboot.htm
> > http://www.grystmill.com/articles/security.htm
> >
> > "rbryan" > wrote in message
> > ...
> > > I appreciate everyone's attempt to help, but 1) I've been out of
> > town for
> > > 24-plus hours and thus incapable of trying any of these suggestions,
> > and 2)
> > > My technical knowledge (which is virtually nill) makes much of the
> > advice too
> > > tough for me to follow.
> > > Hugh, in your most recent response, you asked if I had tried to
> > extract
> > > that file from the OS CD? Is that something that likely would work,
> > and if
> > > so, how do you do that? If that makes sense to try, can someone get me
> > > through it step by step.
> > > Also, an earlier question asked me if I had started my computer in
> > safe
> > > mode. I have not; I do not know how to. Is that something I should
> > try, and
> > > if so, what am I trying in safe mode?
> > > Thanks again.
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > "Hugh Candlin" wrote:
> > >
> > > >
> > > > "rbryan" > wrote in message
> > > > ...
> > > > > Hugh,
> > > > > Thanks, but that doesn't sound like my problem. I will cut and
> > paste the
> > > > > suggested solution to what sounds exactly like my problem below.
> > My
> > > > problem
> > > > > with this solution and others like it is that when I get to step
> > (8)
> > > > below,
> > > > > rather than my computer starting in the windows file manager, it
> > starts
> > > > the
> > > > > same way as it did before I performed steps 1-7, leaving me
> > powerless to
> > > > move
> > > > > onto steps 9, 10, etc.
> > > >
> > > > Are you able to run MSCONFIG ?
> > > >
> > > > On the General tab,
> > > > is the "Process System.Ini file" option enabled ?
> > > >
> > > > On the System.Ini tab,
> > > > is the Boot section enabled ?
> > > >
> > > > What is the Modified date of C:\Windows\Explorer.Exe ?
> > > > Have you tried replacing that file
> > > > with the file from your OS CD ?
> > > >
> > > > Do you also have a C:\Explorer.Exe ? You should NOT.
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> >
> >