WinXP A-Z tips

Access Denied: Error Message - Windows Update
Network policy settings prevent you from using Windows Update to download and install updates
on your computer. If you believe you have received this message in error, please check with your
system administrator.
For Windows XP Pro:
Start/Run/gpedit.msc. User Configuration/Administrative Templates/Windows
Components/Windows Update. In the right pane, double click, Remove access to all Windows
Update Features and set it to disabled.
For Windows XP Home Edition:
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\WindowsUpda
te
Locate the value in the right pane called DisableWindowsUpdateAccess. Double click this entry
and change the value to 0 (zero) or right click it and select Delete.
If editing the Registry manually isn't to your liking click here for a small Visual Basic Script that
will make the change for you.
More information here: Why can't I download updates?
WINUP-Err Msg: "Cannot Display Page"
Accessibility Options
Restore Accessibility Options to Default Settings (Line 135)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Acdsee
Acdsee.exe May Cause an Error Message
Activation - Troubleshooting
Blank Activate Windows Page in the WPA Wizard
Service Pack 1 Changes to Product Activation
Windows XP Prompts You to Re-activate After You Restore Your Computer
Activation - Explained:
Windows XP will typically remind you to activate the product (most users will have 30 days to
activate XP after installation).
To activate XP manually, you can use the Start menu shortcut in the System Tools Accessories
folder. At the command prompt, type: oobe/msoobe /a or Start/All Programs/Accessories/System
Tools/Activate Windows.

Tip: msoobe stands for "Microsoft Out of Box Experience."
Tip: Windows Product Activation by MS-MVP Alex Nichol
Activation - Workaround (Ronnie Vernon MVP)
If you are doing a repair reinstall of XP on the same hardware, you can back up the activation
status and then restore it after you run the repair install of the OS. To save the activation status,
back up the wpa.dbl file from the %systemroot%\system32 folder to a floppy disk.
After the repair install of the OS is complete, start in Minimal Safe mode. Open the \%systemroot
%\system32 folder. Rename wpa.dbl to wpa.noact. Copy the backed up wpa.dbl file to the
system32 folder. Reboot your system.
This isn't a hack to avoid activating installations and will work only on the same hardware for an
XP installation that you've already activated.
Active Desktop
Active Desktop - Enable/Disable (Line 16)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
The user is normally given the option of disabling Active Desktop through the display properties.
This tweak removes the ability to disable Active Desktop.
Open your registry and find the key below.
Create a new DWORD value named "ForceActiveDesktopOn" and set the value to "1" to force
the use of Active Desktop.
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
Value Name: ForceActiveDesktopOn
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = default, 1 = enabled)
* This tweak will remove the Active Desktop options from Settings on the Start Menu.
Open your registry and find the key below.
Create a new DWORD value named "NoSetActiveDesktop", and set the new value to equal "1" to
enable the restriction or "0" to disable the restriction.
Note: This restriction can be used either on a user by user basis by adding it to
HKEY_CURRENT_USER or on a computer wide basis by adding it to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE.
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
Value Name: NoSetActiveDesktop

Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = disable restriction, 1 = enable restriction)
* This tweak allows you to have Active Desktop enabled, but to restrict any changes to the
settings.
Open your registry and find the key below.
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value called 'NoActiveDesktopChanges' set
the value to equal '1' to enable the restriction.
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
Value Name: NoActiveDesktopChanges
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = disable restriction, 1 = enable restriction)
* Features of the Windows Active Desktop can be selectively controlled by modifying options in
the Windows registry. Following the instructions in this tweak.
Open your registry and find the key below.
Create a new DWORD value based on the options below, and set the new value to equal "1" to
enable the restriction or "0" to disable the restriction.
NoChangingWallpaper - Disable the ability to change wallpapers.
NoComponents - Disable components.
NoAddingComponents - Disable the ability to add components.
NoDeletingComponents - Disable the ability to delete components.
NoEditingComponents - Disable the ability to edit components.
NoCloseDragDropBands
NoMovingBands - retrict adjustments to desktop toolbars
NoHTMLWallPaper - only allow bitmaps (BMP) as wallpaper
Note: These restrictions can be used either on a user by user basis by adding it to
HKEY_CURRENT_USER or on a computer wide basis by adding it to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE.
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\ActiveDeskto
p]
System Key:
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\ActiveDeskt
op]
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = disable restriction, 1 = enable restriction)
Active Partition
The Computer Does Not Start After You Change the Active Partition by Using the Disk
Management Tool

Ad Aware
Ad-aware is an award winning, free multi ad/spyware removal utility, that scans your memory,
registry and hard drives for known spyware components and lets you remove them safely. Many
options like scanning depth or automatic modes can be set in the preferences menu. Ad-aware
features an easy to use wizard-style interface, guiding you through the scanning and removal
process. Ad-aware runs under Win9x\ME\NT40\XPand Win2000. Download here.
Add and Remove
Hide selective programs/applications listed in Add or Remove:
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall
Local the program in question in the left pane. In the right pane, right click DisplayName and
select rename: Add Quiet so it will read:
QuietDisplayName. No reboot or refresh needed. Open Add or Remove - the listing is now gone.
To revert, rename back to DisplayName.
Or you can download the .bat file: http://www.jsiinc.com/SUBL/tip5800/rh5845.htm
Add or Remove Programs tool appears to stop responding after you remove the security update
that is documented in Microsoft Security Bulletin MS04-015
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;842253
Add or Remove Edits: Lines 188, 208 (right hand side) and 323:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Add Programs to Add/Remove
To add additional components to the Add/Remove Programs list (Windows Components):
Tools/Folder Options/View/Show Hidden Files and Folders and Show Extensions for known file
types. Then go to Windows Explorer/Inf Folder/Sysoc.inf (Double Click it). You will find several
lines that include the word 'hide'. Simply remove the word 'hide' (but leave the comma). Save and
exit. From there you will be able to remove it from add/remove.
Add and Remove - Show All Files
Windows XP doesn't let you add or remove all the programs it installs by default. Multimedia
applications, the XP messenger, games, accessories, and accessibility options do not show up in
the Add/Remove Programs dialog box. What if you want to get rid of them? Here's how to make
Windows treat these applications just like it treats all the others.
Go to Windows Explorer/Inf. In the right pane, scroll down to sysoc.inf, double click it. Scroll
down to:
[Components]
NtComponents=ntoc.dll,NtOcSetupProc,,4
WBEM=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,wbemoc.inf,hide,7
Display=desk.cpl,DisplayOcSetupProc,,7

Fax=fxsocm.dll,FaxOcmSetupProc,fxsocm.inf,,7
NetOC=netoc.dll,NetOcSetupProc,netoc.inf,,7
iis=iis.dll,OcEntry,iis.inf,,7
com=comsetup.dll,OcEntry,comnt5.inf,hide,7
dtc=msdtcstp.dll,OcEntry,dtcnt5.inf,hide,7
IndexSrv_System = setupqry.dll,IndexSrv,setupqry.inf,,7
TerminalServer=TsOc.dll, HydraOc, TsOc.inf,hide,2
msmq=msmqocm.dll,MsmqOcm,msmqocm.inf,,6
ims=imsinsnt.dll,OcEntry,ims.inf,,7
fp_extensions=fp40ext.dll,FrontPage4Extensions,fp40ext.inf,,7
AutoUpdate=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,au.inf,hide,7
msmsgs=msgrocm.dll,OcEntry,msmsgs.inf,hide,7
WMAccess=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,wmaccess.inf,,7
RootAutoUpdate=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,rootau.inf,,7
IEAccess=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,ieaccess.inf,,7
OEAccess=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,oeaccess.inf,,7
WMPOCM=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,wmpocm.inf,,7
Games=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,games.inf,,7
AccessUtil=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,accessor.inf,,7
CommApps=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,communic.inf,HIDE,7
MultiM=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,multimed.inf,HIDE,7
AccessOpt=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,optional.inf,HIDE,7
Pinball=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,pinball.inf,HIDE,7
MSWordPad=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,wordpad.inf,HIDE,7
ZoneGames=zoneoc.dll,ZoneSetupProc,igames.inf,,7
1. The word "HIDE" in an entry hides that application from your Add/Remove Programs
dialog box. To add games to the Add/Remove menu, delete the word HIDE from its entry
(but leave the commas that surround it). You also have to remove "HIDE" from
"AccessUtil=" for this tip to work.
2. Save the file. Check for the new entries in the Add/Remove Programs dialog box after you
restart your computer.
HOW TO: Add or Remove Windows XP Games
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q307/7/68.asp
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q307768#2
Add and Remove -Removing Invalid Entries in the Add/Remove Programs Tool
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall
Each program listed in Add/Remove Programs has a subkey listed here. Locate the correct subkey
for the program in question and right click it, then select Delete. You may want to choose Export,
first, to export the key to a REG file. The REG file can be re-imported if you find you made a
mistake.
You may have to contact the manufacturer of the program that you want to remove if you need to
clean up the disk and registry entries. The procedure described in this section does not remove all

the files and registry entries used by the program; it removes only the reference in the
Add/Remove Programs tool.
Note: Other checkpoints to consider when trying to remove a program:
Check to see if the software/program is listed here: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
1. Right click the Program's shortcut/Properties to gain the Target Path.
2. Go to Start/Run/Msconfig/Startup and make sure it is not listed or checked there. If so, uncheck
it and remove the program listing from here: Start/Run/Regedit
For items that were in the Start menu, Programs, Startup folder:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Shared Tools\MSConfig\startupfolder.
You'll find a subkey for each disabled item.
For items loaded from the Registry:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Shared Tools\MSConfig\startupreg. Again,
you'll find a subkey for each disabled item.
Clear Disabled Items from Msconfig Startup (Line 148)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
3. Go to Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/File Types. If the program file type is listed,
either use Change or Delete.
4. Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key: HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Applications. If
the program is listed, right click, delete.
5. Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to these keys:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software and HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE. If the
program is listed, right click, delete.
6. Go to Start/Run/Regedit. Edit/Find and under Find What type in the program path gained from
step one. From there either use Find next or F3.
7. Removing Invalid Entries in the Add/Remove Programs Tool
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall
8. The Windows Installer CleanUp Utility can remove a program's Windows Installer
configuration information.
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;290301
9. Third Party: Displays the entries in the Add/Remove Programs list of Windows Registry,
checks if each is valid, and uninstalls the selected program or removes the entry from the list.
http://superwin.swmirror.com/adrmpro2.exe

10. You Cannot Reinstall a Program with the Add/Remove Programs Tool
Add and Remove - Remove or Hide Entries
This program enables you to hide items listed in your Add/Remove Programs list in the control
panel without losing the information needed to uninstall the program.
To hide a program that is listed in the Add/Remove Programs list, simply uncheck the entry.
If you want to uninstall a program that you have hidden, simply run the cleaner and check the
empty check box. The program will then be visible in the Add/Remove Programs list. Download
here.
Add and Remove - Error Message
"Error 1719. The Windows Installer Service Could Not Be Accessed" Error Message When You
Add or Remove Program
Add and Remove - Restrictions
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key: (The first one is per user, the second, per
system)
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Uninstall]
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Uninstall]
Create a new DWORD value for each restriction required according to the table below. Set the
value to equal "1" to enable the restriction or "0" to disable it.










NoAddRemovePrograms - Disable Add/Remove Programs
NoRemovePage - Disable Change and Remove Programs
NoAddPage - Disable Add Programs
NoWindowsSetupPage - Disable Windows Components Wizard
NoAddFromCDorFloppy - Hide "Add a program from CD-ROM or disk" option
NoAddFromInternet - Hide "Add programs from Microsoft" option
NoAddFromNetwork - Hide "Add programs from your network" option
NoServices - Go directly to Windows Components Wizard
NoSupportInfo - Disable Support Information

You may need to restart Windows for the changes to take effect.

Add or Remove Programs Restriction - Undo
Add and Remove - SP1 (Parser Message: Value creation failed " at line 472" error) or (SP2
at line 521) - Eric Pelezo
If you are using Style XP - Right click the Desktop/Properties/Desktop/choose Windows XP and
try again.
Style XP has an update available for SP1

If you have renamed the uxtheme.dll (patch) you could try running SFC /Scannow to restore the
original MS version. Or check in the root directory for "UxTheme.dll.tqtbak" and rename it to
UxTheme.dll and replace the copy in "C:\windows\system32" with the new renamed copy. The
original MS Version - 6.0.2800.1045 (1.98 kb)
The patch can be downloaded here
Errors from trying to use Add or Remove after installing SP1
Add and Remove vs. System Restore - Anshul Rawat [MS]
System Restore does not completely uninstall any program by itself if restoring to a point prior to
the program installation. Since system restore is based on an inclusionary model, any file added or
modified by the installation which System Restore does not monitor or files added to or modified
in a non monitored drive will not be tracked by System Restore.
Thus System Restore cannot delete or undo any modifications made to these files. To remove all
the changes an installation may have made on the system, the user should first use the
Add/Remove option in the control panel to remove the application prior to using System Restore.
System Restore however will undo all recorded changes made to the registry & monitored
files caused by the application install including:
a.. Delete monitored files the program installation may have added to the system
b.. Undo modifications to monitored files made by the installation
c.. Replace the current registry with the registry snapshot taken when the restore point chosen
was created. (*note: some
current values will persist)
d.. Any file type not monitored by System Restore added or modified on the system will not be
restored or removed. E.g.
.jpg, .txt files.
For additional information on System Restore please visit:
http://microsoft.com/technet/itcommunity/Newsgroups/FAQSRWXP.asp

Add or Remove - White Space
AutoCad Fix
Autodesk Land Desktop 3 Fix
This is generally due to the DisplayIcon having a negative number. From here you can either
remove the negative number or remove the last application listed: Start/Run/Regedit:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{}
Add Defrag to the Right Click (Context Menu)
Information and download here.
Add New Hardware
Try opening the device manager, locate the category for your new device, right click the category
and click, 'Scan for Hardware Changes'. For more information: Go to
Start/Run/Msinfo32/Hardware Resources, Components/Problem Devices and Software
Environment/Windows Error Reporting.

How to Troubleshoot Hardware and Software Driver Problems
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q322205
Using Driver Verifier to Troubleshoot Drivers in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q244/6/17.asp
Partial List of Possible Error Codes with Driver Verifier
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q229/9/03.asp
Device Manager Conflicts, Error Codes and Solutions
Add New Hardware Error Message: "Found New Hardware Wizard" advises, "Cannot install
this Hardware. There was a problem installing this hardware: PCI Simple Communications
Controller. The data is Invalid.
This is caused in XP by the new PCI Registry entry defaulting to "Read" under Permissions. Also,
the Device Manager shows the typical yellow query against other Devices/PCI Simple
Communications Controller.
Suggested Solution/Fix:
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\PCI
Open each sub-key: Ven_XXXX... In the right pane read the Value Data for each DEVICEDESC,
until you find your modem. Once found, right click the 3&71aaa sub-key and select Permissions
and under the word "Allow", select "Full Control", click OK then go to File/Exit.
Then go to the Device Manager, right click on the device name that matches the "DEVICEDESC"
value you changed in the registry. Select Properties/Driver/Update Driver. Windows will now ask
you for the disk or CD-ROM that contains the driver for the failing device.
This error can also occur when configuring drivers for a such as SCSI cards, Network cards,
Sound Cards, or other peripherals. This symptom appears to occur when there has been a recent
hardware configuration change within Windows XP. This error is believed to be due to an issue
occurring when hardware enumeration takes place by the operating system.
Address Bar
In Microsoft Internet Explorer, use Alt + D to highlight the address bar. This allows you to enter a
URL without the
mouse. And if you're still typing "http", "www", and ".com" as part of the address -- don't. It's just
not necessary.
Toolbars missing in Windows Explorer or Internet Explorer
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/ToolbarRepair.Exe
Restore All Tabs under Internet Options and Remove the Internet Options Restriction Message
(Line 268)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

Remove/Disable All Toolbars in Internet Explorer (Line 282)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Set the Search Engine in Internet Explorer back to XP Default (Line 229)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Address Book
Address Book is missing: Click Start, and then click Search. Click All files and folders .
In the What do you want to search for box, click All files and folders. In the All or part of the file
name type, *.wab , and then click Search.
When the search is finished, double-click each file to open it. When you have found the correct
one (it will contain your Contact information), note the exact location and name of the file. In
Outlook Express, click the File menu. Click Import, and then click Address Book. Point the Look
In field to the location that you noted in the above step. Click the .wab file, and then click Open.
Click OK to import the Address Book.
Move your Address Book to a Safe Location
OLEXP: Error Message: Address Book Failed to Load
OLEXP: Mail Folders, Address Book, and E-mail Messages Are Missing After You Upgrade to
Microsoft Windows XP
Managing the Address Book
Err Msg: Address Book Failed to Load, Outlook Express Is...
OLEXP: Outlook Express Address Book Does Not Load
Note: For KB Articles Q191946 and Q274745 (the above two), with OE 6, the value in:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Active Setup\Installed Components\
{7790769C-0471-11d2-AF11-00C04FA35D02} Should read "Address Book 6" without the
quotes.
Address Book - Mysterious Tilde on the Desktop
The "Mysterious Tilde File" usually appears just after you close OE but only if you made any
change to Address Book during this OE session...but not always.
It's usually found on Desktop but on occasion appears at C:\ . Rename it ~.wab and you'll see it's
an exact copy of Address Book. You can either rename it or simply delete it.
It first appeared in November '02 with 331923/Cumulative Update for OE6-SP1 which was only
available via manual download and with the more recent 330994/April '03 Cumulative Patch for
OE, available via Windows Update.
Administrator Account - Add to the Welcome Screen
Download the INF fix here. To use: Download the xp_admin_enable.inf file (you may want to
right click and use Save Target As). Locate the file you downloaded and right click on it, then
select Install. Or Download the VBS Fix here. To use: Download the xp_admin_enable.vbs file
and save it to your hard drive (you may want to right click and use Save Target As). Double-click

the xp_admin_enable.vbs file. You will be prompted when the script is done. INF and VBS files
can be viewed in Notepad.
Administrator Account - Access from Welcome Screen
On Pro Edition, from the Welcome screen, press ctrl-Alt-Delete Twice. Press Control/Alt/Delete
Twice for Pro and Boot into safe mode and login for Home. On Home, boot to Safe Mode, and
logon.
More information and options here:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_wel_screen.htm
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/win_xp_logon.htm
Administrator Password
Start/Run/compmgmt.msc/System Tools/Local Users and Groups/Right click Administrator/Set
Password.
For a more comprehensive solution, make a password recovery disk. Under Related Tasks in the
User Accounts Control Panel applet, click "Prevent a forgotten password."
More information here:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/win_xp_passwords.htm
Administrative Shares
HOW TO: Restore Administrative Shares That Have Been Deleted
HOW TO: Create and Disable Administrative Shares on Windows XP
Administrative Tools Folder Does Not Appear on the Start Menu After You Install a New
Program
After you install a new program that belongs in the Administrative Tools folder, the
Administrative Tools folder does not appear in the Start menu. To resolve this behavior,
customize the Start menu:
Right-click the Start button, and then click Properties. On the Start Menu tab, click Customize. On
the Advanced tab, under Start menu items, click System Administrative Tools. Click to select
either the Display on the All Programs menu or the Display on the All Programs menu and the
Start menu option. Click OK , and OK again to save the change.
Tip: Administrator Tools Missing: Open a Search window and do a find for *.msc files in
C:\Windows\System32. You
can create the missing shortcuts by pointing them to the correct file.
Administrative Tools on the Start Menu - Hide
This folder contains powerful administration utilities and therefore can be hidden to avoid
accidental use.
Open your registry (Start/Run/Regedit) and find the key mentioned below.

[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced]
Value Name: StartMenuAdminTools
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value)
Value Data: Yes or No
Create a new string value, or modify the existing value, named 'StartMenuAdminTools'. Modify
the value to equal 'YES' to show the administrative tools folder or 'NO' to hide it. Exit your
registry and log off for the changes to take effect.
Note: By using the same key except under the [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE] tree the tweak can
be enforced system wide, instead of only user based.
Note: Hiding the folder does not stop the use of the tools, it only make it more difficult to locate
them.
Administrative Tools - Restore
Album Covers
Album Cover Art for Windows XP and Windows Media Player 8
All Part2 is Null
Go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: net stop winmgmt. Then delete the
%windir&\system32\wbem\repository directory. Once done go back to Start/Run/CMD and type
in: net start winmgmt
"Help and Support " Does Not Collect All Hardware Information
WinMgmt could not initialize the core parts: To reinstall wmi into the registry:
Go to Start/Run and type in: CMD, then Winmgmt/? for information. Then run each of these
hitting enter after each:
winmgmt /clearadap
winmgmt /kill
winmgmt /unregserver
winmgmt /regserver
winmgmt /resyncperf
Alt-Keys
How to use alt key codes:
http://www.frontpagewizard.com/use_alt_keys.asp
Alt keys found on the majority of personal computers:
http://www.cfpsa.com/en/services/hrservices/OfficialLanguages/altKeys_e.asp
Alt-Tab - Restore to Default Behavior

Open Control Panel/Add/Remove Programs. Powertoys for Windows XP. Remove the Alt-Tab
replacement. When you install Windows XP Powertoys, it comes with a program called
TaskSwitch.exe designed to enhance the Alt+Tab task switcher. To disable this feature, go to
Start/Run and type: msconfig. Click the "Startup" tab and uncheck startup item "taskswitch".
Click Start, Run and enter TASKMGR. In Processes, locate the TaskSwitch process and end it.
Your Alt-Tab will be back to normal.
To manually apply: Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop
"CoolSwitchColumns"
"CoolSwitchRows"
The above values reflect how many columns and rows, respectively, you want to appear in the
Alt+Tab cool switch display.
Animation - Disable Windows Animation in XP
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\WindowMetrics. In the right pane, select
New/String. Name it MinAnimate. Set Value to 0. Exit/Reboot.
Anti-Virus
List of Antivirus Software Vendors
Application - Opening Applications In The Back
Make your documents and programs open behind the currently active window by pressing and
holding the Ctrl key while you double-click on its icon.
Application Path - Creating Path to use the Run Command
To create an application path, so you can run an application in Windows XP from the Run dialog
box you need to:
1. Run regedit and go to HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\App Paths
2. Create a new key with the what ever you want to use as your run command:
HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\App Paths\nameofprogram.exe
3. In the key folder that you created, create a new string, call it 'Path' and modify the value to
point the specific folder of your
executable your running: C:\ProgramFiles\nameofprogram.
4. Use the default string and modify it's value to point to the executable you want to run.
Applications - Restrict Users from Running Specific Applications
This setting allows you to specify applications and filenames that users are restricted from
running.

Open your registry and find the key
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion \Policies\Explorer]
Create a new DWORD value and name it "DisallowRun" set the value to "1" to enable application
restrictions or "0" to allow all applications to run.
Then create a new sub-key called
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion
\Policies\Explorer\DisallowRun] and define the applications the are to be restricted. Creating a
new string value for each application, named as consecutive numbers, and setting the value to the
filename to be restricted (e.g. "regedit.exe").
Explained: DK
Right click in the right pane and select New, DWord value. Name the new value DisallowRun.
Double click the new value and set it to 1. Then right click on the Explorer sub branch, in the left
pane and select New, Key Name the new key Disallow Run. Highlight this key, then in the right
pane, right click and select New, String value. Give it "1" for
the name, without the quotes.
Double click this new value and enter the actual file name of the executable you wish to restrict
this user from
running. Example: calc.exe This prevents this user from running Calculator. They'll get a "This
operation has been cancelled message" when they try. Note: The way around this is for the user to
rename Calc.exe to something else. For additional entries, just give the "values" names in
numerical order, 1, 2, 3, 4 and so on. DisallowRunReg and DisallowRunCalc
Restart Windows for the changes to take effect.
Applications - Restrict Applications Users Can Run
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer.
Value Name: RestrictRun
Open your registry and find the key
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion \Policies\Explorer]
Create a new DWORD value and name it "RestrictRun" set the value to "1" to enable application
restrictions or "0" to allow all applications to run.
Then create a new sub-key called
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion
\Policies\Explorer\RestrictRun] and define the applications that are allowed. Creating a new string
value for each application, named as consecutive numbers, and setting the value to the filename to
be allowed (e.g. "regedit.exe" and "calc.exe").
Explained: DK
This example prevents any applications but those that you specify from being run:
Right click in the Right pane and select New, DWord value and name the new value RestrictRun
Double click this entry

and set it to 1. Right click on the Explorer sub branch, in the left pane and select New, Key Name
the new key RestrictRun. Highlight this key, then in the right pane, right click and select New,
String value. Give it "1" for the name, without the quotes. Double click this new value and enter
the actual file name of the executable you wish to restrict this user from running. Example:
calc.exe Right click again, select New, String value, name the new value "2". Double click the
new
value, enter REGEDIT.EXE
This example would only allow Calculator and REGEDIT to be run. Be VERY careful with this
setting. You could wind up locking yourself out of REGEDIT if you were to use the restrictions
on your Administrator account.
Restart Windows for the changes to take effect.
Note: If you are the person who applies Group Policy, do not apply this policy to yourself. If
applied too broadly, this policy can prevent administrators from running Group Policy or the
registry editors. As a result, once applied, you cannot change this policy except by reinstalling
Windows XP.
Software Restriction Policies may be set to determine what software may or may not be run by
users on the system. (Jim Cavalaris [MS])
Software Restriction Policies can be configured via the group policy editor (gpedit.msc) at:
Local Computer Policy -->Computer Configuration -->Windows Settings -->Security Settings
-->Software Restriction Policies. Policy can be set to either: restrict users from running specified
programs - OR -restrict users to allow ONLY the specified programs to be run.
For a non-domain machine, policy can be applied to all users on the system, or non-Admin users
only (Admins are not affected by the policy, and may run any/all programs). you cannot specify
this policy for only certain users, but for a non-domain machine, the Admin/non-Admin
breakdown may be sufficient.
Using Software Restriction Policies in Windows XP and Windows .NET Server to Protect Against
Unauthorized Software
Another Option - (KWE) - You can move shortcuts out of %ALLUSERSPROFILE
%\StartMenu\Programs and place the shortcuts in specific user account profiles to keep program
shortcuts from being visible to all accounts. This does not stop the limited account from running
the program using a variety of techniques.
Applications - Set Priority
Open TaskManager (Ctrl+Alt+Del or Ctrl+Shift+Esc), Process Tab. Right click the Program in
questions, Set Priority.
Application - Modify Application Timeout
The operating system has a set amount of time that a program must be frozen for before it is timed
out. Often this number is set too high. But in some circumstances it is set too low. Depending on if
the program is doing a lot of calculations in the background the computer may think that it is
timed out. To prevent this increase the value of the timeout in the registry.

Start/Run/Regedit
Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop. Select HungAppTimeout from
the list on the right.
Right on it and select Modify. Change the value to the new timeout value. Reboot your computer.
ASPI Drivers for Windows XP - Download.
ASPI stands for Advanced SCSI Programming Interface. Originally developed by Adaptec. It is a
software layer that enables programs to communicate with SCSI (and ATAPI) devices.
Attachments - Avoid download of file attachments that may have virus infections.
Start/Run/gpedit.msc. User Configuration/Administrative Templates/Windows
Components/Internet Explorer. Configure Outlook Express/Enable Block attachments that may
contain a virus.
Attributes - Display the Attributes Column in Explorer
Right click on the column headers and select Columns. You'll get a list of them to choose from.
Attributes is one of them.
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ Explorer\Advanced.
Value Name: ShowAttribCol, Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value), Value Data: (0 =
disable, 1 = enable). Create a new DWORD value called 'ShowAttribCol' and set the value to '1'
to enable the attributes column.
AutoComplete - Clear
IE/Tools/Internet Options/General/Clear History
IE/Tools/Internet Options/Content/AutoComplete
Can't Clear History: Start/Search/Change Preferences/Turn off AutoComplete
Control the Auto Complete Mode
This setting controls whether the automatic text completion (AutoComplete) feature of Windows
explorer appends the suggested text to the words as you are typing as well as showing a dropdown list of available values.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Explorer\AutoComplete. Value Name: Append Completion, Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value),
Value Data: yes or no.
Create a new string value, or modify the existing value, named "Append Completion" and set it to
"yes" to append the suggested text as you are typing or "no" to only show a drop-down list.
Restart Windows for the change to take effect. Note: This setting also changes the auto complete
functionality of Internet Explorer.

You can view the values stored for each input field name, delete incorrect ones, and pre-load the
system with additional values.
Clear Form Fields in AutoComplete (Line 37)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
AutoComplete Mode Enabled or Disabled (Line 37)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Restore IE AutoComplete Password Prompt (Line 13)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Close IE. Then go to Start/Run and type in: services.msc
Scroll down to Protected Storage. Note the Status column. If Protected Storage is running, Started
will appear under Status.
If Protected Storage is not started, start it. To do this, right-click Protected Storage, and then click
Start. If Protected Storage is started, stop and then restart it.
If you receive a Stop Other Services message, record the names of the other services that will be
stopped, and then click Yes. Then restart the others services. Close out then reopen IE.
AutoComplete Does Not Save Username and Password
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;Q306895
For Pro: Start/Administrative Tools/Services/Protected Storage. Make sure the Service Protected
Storage is Started.
Addresses Are Not Resolved When the AutoComplete Feature Is Enabled
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;Q230592
AutoComplete and Vcard and how they work
http://htmlgoodies.earthweb.com/autocomplete.html
AutoComplete Keys and Storage
The specific subkeys for different applications (appear to be) is as follows:
IE: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System Provider\S-1-5-21839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db
OE: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System Provider\S-1-5-21839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\220d5cc1-853a-11 d0-84bc-00c04fd43f8f
FTP, Front Page and password protected web sites:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System Provider\S-1-5-21839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\5e7e8100-9138-11d1-945a-00c04fc308ff
Outlook XP: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System
Provider\S-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\220d5cd0-853a-11d0-84bc00c04fd43f8f

Note: the S-1-5-21-839522........ part of the Registry key above may be different on your machine.
InfoDelivery, MSN and Identities have their own sub branches off of the Data branch. These
number (other than the User number) appear to be the same from machine to machine.
AutoComplete and HP's
When logging in as Owner, AutoComplete does not work when filling out a form, it does work;
however, in the address bar, and also in Outlook Express.
HP support stated that the Owner/Administrator login doesn't save passwords, etc. This is for
security reasons. They advice to set up another account, assign it as limited, and log in on that
account.
AutoComplete: Remove Google Search History
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System
Provider\S-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\e161255a-37c3-11
d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\q:StringData]
"Behavior"="Item Data"=[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System
Provider\S-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\e161255a-37c3-11
d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\q:StringIndex]
"Behavior"="Item Data"=Note: The S-1-5 ... portion of this string may be different on your machine.
Note 2: To delete the value doesn't work unless the Permissions have been set to allow full
control. Nor is it possible to delete the keys, without Full Control being allowed.
Tip: Step by Step instruction:
Go to the key listed below:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System Provider\
S-1-5-21-1960408961-220523388-682003330-1003
With the S-1-5-21....in blue, choose File/Export and save it to your desktop and name it (ex).
googlehistoryclear.reg. Leave the registry open then go to your desktop. Right click the saved reg
file and choose Edit. If it needs an association choose Notepad. Scroll down to these keys:
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System
Provider\S-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa00c04fd929db\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\q:StringData]
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System
Provider\S-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa00c04fd929db\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\q:StringIndex]
To make the search/scroll easier they are listed in alphabetic order and you are looking for the end
of the string in this case \q:StringData and \q:StringIndex. So scroll down to the q's....

Under q:StringData
Highlight what is listed after the word "Behavior"= only up to the words "Item Data"= and delete
it. Then place a - (minus sign) after the = so that it looks like this: "Behavior"=From there highlight what is listed after the words "Item Data"= only up to the next key and delete
it. Then place a - (minus sign) after the = so that it looks like this:
"Item Data"=Do the same for q:StringIndex.
Once done choose File/Save. Use the red X to close. If it asked to save again, answer yes.
Return to the registy and delete this key: (right click, delete, accept the warning)
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System Provider\
S-1-5-21-1960408961-220523388-682003330-1003
Then go back to your desktop and double click your saved regedit, answer yes. Then open Google
and the search history is gone.
AutoComplete: Save Passwords
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main
In the right pane, right click FormSuggest PW Ask, modify value data with no = do not ask to
save passwords, yes...
IE AutoComplete Password Prompt VB Script
Internet Explorer Control Panel Restrictions
AutoComplete Does Not Save Username and Password
For Pro: Start/Administrative Tools/Services/Protected Storage. Make sure the Service Protected
Storage is Started.
Addresses Are Not Resolved When the AutoComplete Feature Is Enabled
Auto-Dial: Disconnect/Disable
Check your settings here:
Right click the My computer icon (Desktop), open Manage/Services and Applications/Services. In
the right pane scroll down to Remote Access Auto Connection Manager and double click it. Use
the Startup type drop box and choose Disabled.
Network Connections/Advanced/Dial-Up Preferences/Enable Auto-Dial by Location/Uncheck all
locations and Always ask me before Auto-Dialing.
Also check all programs with a Notification Area icon (system tray) for an option to disable or not
start at startup. Most can be unselected here: Start/Run/Msconfig/Startup and/or removed from
here: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run

Disable Automatic Modem Connections at Startup
If remote connections are enabled in Windows, the system may try to initiate an Internet
connection at Windows startup or at the start of many applications. This setting disables that
behavior.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Ole. Value Name: EnableRemoteConnect,
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value), Value Data: "Y" = enable automatic connections, "N" =
disabled.
Create a new String value, or modify the existing value, called 'EnableRemoteConnect' and edit
the value according to the settings above. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of
Windows for the change to take effect.
Modify the Internet Auto-Dial Settings
Windows has the option to automatically dial your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to establish an
Internet connection. This option can be controlled using this tweak.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet Settings
Create a new binary value named "EnableAutodial", and set the new value to equal "01 00 00 00"
to enable autodial or "00 00 00 00" to disable it.
Note: This restriction can be used either on a user by user basis by adding it to
HKEY_CURRENT_USER or on a computer wide basis by adding it to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE.
To view the list of names and addresses recorded by AutoDial, type the following
command at a command
prompt: rasautou -s
To delete a name or address entry from the list: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\RAS Autodial\Addresses
You can delete any TCP/IP addresses that you see under this key. Note that AutoDial can use IP
addresses, DNS fully qualified domain names (FQDN), and NetBIOS names.
How to make auto-disconnect work in Internet explorer
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\LanmanServer\Parameters
In the right pane, find Autodisconnect and change the time accordingly. Alternately You can try
this from command prompt: net config server /autodisconnect:30 -to set the autodisconnect to 30
minutes.
More Information on Auto-Dial and Auto-Disconnect
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_modem.htm

Audigy
Creative SoundBlaster Audigy Audio May Cause an Error Message
Auto-Disconnect Modem
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\LanmanServer\Parameters. In
the right pane, find Autodisconnect and change the time accordingly.
Or...
Start/Run/net config server /autodisconnect:30 (30 being an example). To disable AutoDisconnect set it to -1. Setting Autodisconnect to 0 does not turn it off and results in very fast
disconnects, within a few seconds of idle time. (However, the RAS Autodisconnect parameter is
turned off if you set it to a value of 0.)
Modem Issues, Auto-Connect/Disconnect & Dialup for Windows XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_modem.htm
Auto-Logon
1. At a command prompt, type "control userpasswords2" and press Enter to open the Windows
2000-style User Accounts application.
2. On the Users tab, clear the Users Must Enter A User Name And Password To Use This
Computer check box and then click OK.
3. In the Automatically Log On dialog box that appears, type the user name and password for the
account you want to be logged on each time you start your computer.
Add Control UserPasswords2 to the Control Panel (Line 1)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Or...
Control Panel/Administrative Tools/Local Security Settings/Minimum Password Length (0). User
account/Remove Password.
How to Enable Automatic Logon in Windows
Welcome Screen in Windows XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_wel_screen.htm
Logon and User Profiles
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/win_xp_logon.htm
AutoPlay - Add Your CD-Rom Burning Program
Add Your CD Burning Program to AutoPlay Actions - Blank CD Inserted
TweakUI/My Computer/AutoPlay/Handlers/Edit

AutoPlay - Checkpoints
Control Panel/Administrative Tools/Services/Shell Hardware Detection/Return this service to
Automatic.
If you are using TweakUI/My Computer/AutoPlay
Go to Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/File Types. Highlight AudioCD/Advanced. Make
sure that Play is in bold type, then go to Edit and verify that this line is listed under Application
used:
"C:\Program Files\Windows Media Player\wmplayer.exe" /prefetch:3 /device:AudioCD "%L"
Related Registry Entries:
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\AudioCD]
"BaseClass"="Drive"
@="AudioCD"
"EditFlags"=hex:02,00,00,00
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\AudioCD\DefaultIcon]
@="C:\\WINDOWS\\System32\\shell32.dll,40"
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\AudioCD\shell]
@="play"
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\AudioCD\shell\play]
@="&Play"
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\AudioCD\shell\play\command]
@="\"C:\\Program Files\\Windows Media Player\\wmplayer.exe\" /prefetch:3
/device:AudioCD \"%L\""
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Cdrom]
"AutoRun"=dword:00000001
Auto-Play: Disable
TweakUI/My Computer/AutoPlay
To Disable CD Autoplay in Windows XP Pro
[1] Start/Run/GPEDIT.MSC
[2] Computer Configuration/Administrative Templates/System.
[3] Locate the entry for Turn Off Autoplay and modify.
Start/Run/Gpedit.msc/Computer Configuration/Administrative Templates/System. Check your
settings in the right pane, Turn Off Autoplay (double click).
To Disable CD Autoplay, completely, in Windows XP Home
Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT Then go to:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Name: NoDriveTypeAutoRun
Type: REG_DWORD
If NoDriveTypeAutoRun does not exist, create it and set its value to 145 (decimal).
Or...
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
"NoDriveTypeAutoRun"=dword:0x000000FF
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Cdrom
AutoRun = 0
Auto-Play: Enable
Control Panel/Administrative Tools/Services/Shell Hardware Detection/Return this service to
Automatic.
Start/Run/Gpedit.msc/Computer Configuration/Administrative Templates/System. Check your
settings in the right pane for Turn Off AutoPlay (and modify).
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\ControlSet\Services\Cdrom. AutoRun = 1
Or run this edit: Enable CD AutoPlay for Pro or Home (Line 10)
If you are using TweakUI/My Computer/AutoPlay
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/downloads/powertoys.asp
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Autopla
yHandlers. Right click on the AutoplayHandlers subkey and delete it. Do the same here under this
key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\CD
Burning\Drives
If still not corrected, manually make these changes under this key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\CD
Burning\Drives
Double click the "Drive Type" value to change it's properties. CD-R should be set to 1; CD-RW
should be set
to 2; Non-Writable should be set to 3. Then under AutoPlayHandlers: User Defaults verify
MSCDBurningOnArrival. For any listed without an Autoplay LegacyHandler, set it to AutoPlay.

AutoPlay Handler Keys:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Autopla
yHandlers\Handlers\
MSTakeNoAction
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Autopla
yHandlers\Handlers
Restore AutoPlay Handlers (Line 99)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Restore AutoPlay Icon - http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the Regedit: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting
Edit.
Note: This REG file contains numerous settings regarding Autoplay, in addition to the icon
settings and may correct your problem.
Auto Play - Listen To CDs Without A Click
Since the advent of Microsoft’s Windows Media Player, playing an audio CD has been a click-free
task. However, after installing WinXP, when you insert an audio CD for the first time, the Audio
CD dialog box appears. The Play Audio CD Using Windows Media Player is already highlighted,
so there’s no need to click it. But before you click OK, click the checkbox next to Always Do The
Selected Action. This will restore CD playing to its former click-free glory. Click OK and the CD
will play.
Auto Play Icon - Restore
Restore the Auto Play Icon - http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm or you can
Download it here. Download
the REG file to your hard drive, then double click it. Answer yes to the import prompt. REG files
can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on them and selecting Edit.
Auto - Reboot (Modify auto-reboot setting)
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\CrashControl. Select
AutoReboot from the list on the right. Right on it and select Modify. Change the value to 0 to
disable and 1 to enable. Reboot your computer.
Auto-Reply
Create your message in Word, Wordpad, Notepad or any other text program you like. Save as
(name you choose) and make sure you have selected a text extension .txt. I find that wordpad
works just fine. Save to wherever you can find it again.
Go to OE/Tools/Message Rules/Mail/New and set up a rule.

1. Select your option from the top section for whom you want to send it to.
2. In the second section, scroll down and select "reply with message."
3. In the third section, click on the word "message." You'll be prompted to select the file to use.
4. In the bottom dropdown window, change the extension to text (mail is the default and won't see
your saved file.)
5. Select the file you created. It will show the path to the message.
To test it, send an email to yourself and see if you get your message back. When you look at the
message you sent yourself
in the inbox, it should show a reply icon.
Auto-Runs
AutoRuns - Shows what programs are configured to run during system boot up or login. Includes
items in startup folders, win.ini, and 14 registry keys. Download here.
Automatic Update
Automatic Update Feature in Windows XP Explained
Automatic Window Refresh
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Update. Create a new
DWORD value, or modify the existing value, named "UpdateMode" and set it to equal "0" for
faster updates. Restart Windows for the change to take effect.
Automatically Close Non-Responding Applications on Shutdown
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop
Value Name: AutoEndTasks, Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value), Value Data: (0 = disabled, 1 =
enabled). Modify the value of 'AutoEndTasks' to equal '1' to automatically end tasks or '0' to
prompt for action.
Note: This change will affect all users but the value can also be changed on a user-by-user basis
by modifying [HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop] with the same values.
Available Bytes
Description of What the Available Bytes in Task Manager Represents
AVI Files - Fix Movie Interference in AVI Files
If you have any AVI files that you saved in Windows 9x, which have interference when opened in
Windows XP, there is an easy fix to get rid of the interference: Open Windows Movie Maker.
Click View and then click Options. Click in the box to remove the check mark beside
Automatically create clips. Now, import the movie file that has interference and drag it onto the
timeline. Then save the movie, and during the re-rendering, the interference will be removed.

File Formats Supported by Windows Movie Maker in Windows XP
Cannot Use Sony MovieShaker v1.1 and v1.2 to Open AVI Files
AVI Fix
This program was created to be able to watch partially downloaded DivX (AVI) movies. It can
rebuild or strip the index
part of the movie, which is at the end of the file. There are also a basic error detection, which can
detect serious errors in
the audio/video stream. Download here.
AVI - Remove
Close all open apps. Open a command prompt and navigate to the directory with the offending
files. Then open the Task Manager and click on the Processes tab. select "explorer.exe" under
Image Name. Click "End Process".
Now you will only have the command prompt and the task manager. In the Command Prompt,
DEL the offending files
(DEL *.mpg, DEL mus*.avi, DEL test.wmv, etc.)
The files should now delete without a problem. Now go back to the task manager and click on the
Applications tab. Click the "New Task..." button. in the dialog, type explorer.exe and click OK.
How do I delete an "undeletable" file?
AVI - Explorer.Exe
Start/Run/Regedit
-HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\SystemFileAssociations\.avi\shellex\PropertyHandler. And delete the
"Default" key.

HOW TO: Distribute a Custom Desktop
Theme to Users in Windows XP
View products that this article applies to.
Article
: 310514
ID
Last Review : October 26, 2002
Revision
: 1.0
This article was previously published under Q310514
On This Page

SUMMARY
Distributing Custom Desktop Themes

SUMMARY
This step-by=step article describes how you can distribute a customized desktop theme to other
users of Windows XP-based computers. If you create a customized desktop theme, you can
distribute it to other users to standardize the appearance of the Windows XP interface across the
enterprise, within departments, or just to those users who admire your design and want to use it.
Back to the top

Distributing Custom Desktop Themes
When you save your customized theme, Windows XP saves the file in the theme name.theme
format, where theme name is the name you gave the theme. By default, the file is saved in the My
Documents folder. Built-in system theme files are located in the %SystemRoot%\Resources
folder. The theme file is similar to an .ini file, as it contains section headings with data for each
section.
For example, the [Control Panel\Colors] section contains data about the appearance of title bars,
borders, windows, and so on.
You can send a theme file in an e-mail message, or copy it to a remote computer by using My
Network Places. A recipient can take the following steps to load the file:
1. Right-click the desktop, and then click Properties to open Display Properties.
2. On the Themes tab, click Browse in the Theme box.
3. Locate the folder that has the theme file, and then double-click it.
4. Click OK to load the new theme, and then close Display Properties.
NOTE: Windows XP displays a Please Wait message while the new settings are applied.

Background - For all Users
Create a user, set the profile up exactly the way you want it and then log on as someone with
administrator privileges and copy that profile to \Documents and Settings\Default User.
Overwrite the existing profile. Any user created after you modify the Default User profile will get
the new settings.
HOW TO: Distribute a Custom Desktop Theme to Users
HOW TO: Configure Desktop Themes in Windows XP
Background - Specify the Background Image and Wallpaper Style
These settings allow you to specify the background wallpaper and display style. When this setting
is defined users can not choose an alternative background image. Go to Start/Run/Regedit and
navigate to:

[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System]
Value Name: Wallpaper, WallpaperStyle. Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value)
To specify the wallpaper create a new string value called "Wallpaper" and set it to the full path
and filename of the image.
Additionally, to specify the display style, create a new string value called "WallpaperStyle" and
set it to either "0", "1" or "2" according to the list below.




0 - Centered (Default)
1 - Tiled
2 - Stretched

You may need to restart Windows for the changes to take effect.
Background Tab is Missing
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System
Look in the right pane for a value called: NoDispBackgroundPage If it exists, double click it and
set the value to 0. If it doesn't exist, right click in the right pane and select New, DWord value, and
name it NoDispBackgroundPage. Leave the value at 0.
Backup - Windows XP
In Pro you can find it here: Start/Programs/Accessories/System Tools/Backup
The Backup utility is not included in the default installation of Windows XP Home Edition. The
Backup icon is not present on the Start menu in Windows XP Home Edition, nor is Backup listed
in Add Remove Programs for Windows XP Home edition.
To manually install Backup:
Double-click the Ntbackup.msi file in the following location on the Windows XP Home Edition
CD-ROM to start a wizard that installs Backup: CD-ROM Drive
:\VALUEADD\MSFT\NTBACKUP. When the wizard is complete, click Finish.
System Backup for Windows XP
Windows Backup Does Not Back Up to CD-R, CD-RW, or DVD-R Devices
Tip: Save the backup to your CD Burning folder. Then select the CD-R device and "burn" the
file to CD. If you want to
restore the backup, copy it from the CD to your disk and then restore it. If for some
reason the restore utility
doesn't like the file, change the read-only attribute that it picked up from being on the CD.
For more information: http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/win_xp_backup.htm
Backup

WinBackup makes it easier than ever before to secure your data by making regular backups. Not
only will WinBackup help you organize your backups and schedule automatic backups, it will also
protect your data using the latest encryption techniques, compress data to save space, create
detailed logs of all backup operations and more. WinBackup also features one of the most
intuitive user interfaces you have ever seen, making even the most advanced features easily
accessible to beginners and professionals alike. Download here. Users Manual here. FAQ's here.
Second Copy® 2000 is the perfect backup product designed for Windows 9x/Me/NT4/2000/XP
you have been looking for. It makes a backup of your data files to another directory, disk or
computer across the network. It then monitors the source files and keeps the backup updated with
new or changed files. It runs in the background with no user interaction. So, once it is setup you
always have a backup of your data some where else.
Second Copy 2000 simplifies the task of making "Second Copies" of your important files and
folders. It organizes your copy jobs in "profiles". Each profile is a set of file and folder
specifications which tells Second Copy 2000, what you want to be copied, to where, and when.
Once configured, it runs in the background (accessible from the system tray) and monitors the
"source" folders for changes or updates and copies new or changed files to the "destination."
Setting profiles is a snap with the "Profile Wizard". Express setup lets you copy entire folders to
another location on your disk, to another disk on your computer or to another computer across the
network. You can define copy intervals from every half an hour to once a day. The Custom setup
option lets you specify which files and folders should be included or excluded and whether you
want the files copied, moved, compressed or synchronized. A neatly organized Log lets you
monitor the copy activities. Download here.
Backup Plus
Backup Plus allows you to easily and quickly backup all of your important data. Features include
the ability to include files, full folders, wildcards and exclusions in your backup set. Backup to
just about any removable device, span multiple disks if required and even write to CDR/CD-RW
drives with your existing packet writing software. Make backups easy with Backup Plus. More
information here.
Backup and Recovery
The Backup utility in Windows XP Professional helps you protect your data in the event your hard
disk fails or files are accidentally erased due to hardware or storage media failure. By using
Backup you can create a duplicate copy of all of the data on your hard disk and then archive it on
another storage device, such as a hard disk or a tape.
If the original data on your hard disk is accidentally erased or overwritten, or becomes
inaccessible because of a hard–disk malfunction, you can easily restore it from the disk or
archived copy by using the Restore or Automated System Recovery Wizards. To start Backup or
to access Restore and Automated System Recovery: Click Start, click All Programs, click
Accessories, click System Tools, and then click Backup.
Windows XP Backup, Restore, and Automated System Recovery all function when Windows XP
Professional is functioning. If your computer does not start properly, you may need to use
Recovery Console. Recovery Console provides a command line during Startup from which you
can make system changes when Windows XP Professional doesn’t start. To learn more about
Backup, Restore, and Automated System Recovery, see Help and Support Center.

Recovery Console
You can use Recovery Console to perform many tasks without starting Windows XP, including:
starting and stopping services, reading and writing information on a local disk drive, and
formatting drives. However, you must install Recovery Console while your computer is still
functioning. The Recovery Console feature should be used only by advanced users. Before using
Recovery Console, it is recommended that you back up your information on a tape drive, because
your local hard disks might be reformatted—thus erased—as part of the recovery. You can also
run Recovery Console from the Windows XP CD.
To install Recovery Console as a Startup Option
Log on to Windows XP Professional as an administrator or as a user with administrator rights.
If your computer is connected to a network, network policy settings may prevent you from
completing this procedure. Contact your network administrator for assistance. Insert the Windows
XP Professional CD into your CD ROM drive. If you’re prompted to upgrade to Windows XP,
click No.
From the command prompt—or from the Run command in the Start menu–type the path to the
appropriate Winnt32.exe file (on your Windows XP Professional CD), followed by a space and
/cmdcons to reference this switch. For example:
e:\1386\winnt32.exe /cmdcons. Follow the instructions that appear.
To run Recovery Console on a computer if Windows XP Professional does not start
Restart your computer, and then choose Windows Recovery Console from the list of operating
systems. Follow the instructions that appear. Recovery Console displays a command prompt.
Make the required changes to your system.
Back up your information regularly—using the Backup utility in Windows XP—to keep your
archived data up–to–date.
It is also a good idea to backup important data and files before making any system changes, such
as adding new hardware, updating drivers or firmware, and editing the registry. For more
information about how to back up your data, see Help and Support Center. To see the commands
available in Recovery Console, type “help” at the command prompt. To restart your computer,
type “exit” to close the Recovery Console command prompt.
Backup Restore - From Win95, 98, Me
Cannot Restore Backups That You Create in Windows 95, Windows 98, or Windows Me with the
Windows XP Ntbackup Tool. To resolve this behavior, restore the data from the tape or file by
using Msbackup on a computer that is running Windows 95, Windows 98, or Windows Me.
Suggested workaround:
Obtain the Win9x MSBACKUP program and run it in compatibility mode on the WinXP
computer. If you do not have the program you can download a copy from Microsoft:
ftp://ftp.microsoft.com/softlib/mslfiles/msback.exe (558K)
The MSBACK.EXE file is a self-extracting file containing the MSBACKUP.EXE program and
supporting files.
Place this file on a floppy disk, open a DOS window, and execute the file. The MSBACKUP.EXE

program and supporting files will be extracted to the same floppy.
You must then run the install program. Create a temporary directory on the hard drive and then
command A>INSTALL C:\TEMP (or whatever directory name you made on the hard drive).
MSBACKUP will then run and attempt to set itself up.
It is during this process that some users tend to find WinXP not allowing the program to proceed.
Backup VB Script
Move the folder/contents to another partition. Create a shortcut to it and place it on your desktop.
Anything added will go to the new destination. It is merely a shortcut to the folder.
An added measure: Copy the four lines below into notepad and save as backup.vbs. Change
NameofFolder to the correct name and create two backup folders according to the example below.
In the done = change NameofFolder as well.
Set fso = CreateObject("Scripting.FileSystemObject")
fso.CopyFolder "C:\NameofFolder\*.*", "C:\NameofFolder_backup"
fso.CopyFolder "C:\NameofFolder\*.*", "E:\NameofFolder_backup"
done = MsgBox("Done", vbOKonly, "Backup NameofFolder")
Batch Files - .bat
Batch files for XP
Batch Script Collection
Batch Files for Windows
Batch File Association Fix Or from a command prompt just type assoc .bat=batfile
Belarc Advisor - System Inventory Tool
The Belarc Advisor builds a detailed profile of your installed software and hardware. Download
here. In the Software Versions section you'll see all of your installed software. At the end of each
entry is a clickable asterisk that will take you to the folder the software is installed in.
BING - Bootit Next Generation
BootIt NG is a partition and multi boot manager with a powerful and simple to use set of tools for
partitioning, imaging, and multi-booting your computer.
Boot It Next Generation
Support and FAQ's
Help/Info
BootIt NG Newsgroup Support
How to install W2K/XP with Controller Card issues using Bing
To move to another larger drive using BootIT NG, from http://www.BootitNG.com by MVP Alex
Nichol
Download, to its own folder, extract from the zip, run the bootitng to make a boot floppy.

With the new drive plugged in as slave/secondary, boot the floppy, Cancel Install, entering
maintenance, then Partition work. On the left, select the second Drive (HD1) then highlight and
Delete existing partitions that are to be replaced, leaving it empty. Select HD0 again, highlight
your C:,Copy, select HD1 and Paste. You can then click resize and say to use the whole of the
larger drive. Close out, swap the disks to make the new one bootable, and remove the other for
the moment.
At this point reboot the BING floppy, again Partition Work, this time click view MBR and in it
highlight your C and click to make it active, then click to write MBR code - this makes the
partition bootable. and you can exit and reboot to XP. (May not be needed for a drive that was in
use before, but do it to be certain).
Bios
Bios Explained
Bios - Beep Codes
You'll need to know who the maker of your BIOS is. That's one of the first things displayed when
you computer starts up.
Here's the beep definitions by BIOS: Standard Error Codes:
http://www.pchell.com/hardware/beepcodes.shtml
Bios - Upgrades
WimsBios - By Motherboard Manufacturer - FAQ's - Forum
BIOS Information Guide - How To's, General Information and Download Links
Soyo Bios Downloads - Download Drivers, Manuals, and Other Information
Bios - Commands
Bios ManufacturerKey Command(s)
ALR Advanced Logic Research, Inc. ® PC / PCIF2
ALR PC non / PCICTRL+ALT+ESC
AMD® (Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.) BIOSF1

AMI (American Megatrends, Inc.)
BIOS

DEL

Award™ BIOSCTRL+ALT+ESC
Award BIOSDEL
DTK® (Datatech Enterprises Co.) BIOSESC
Phoenix™
BIOS

CTRL+ALT+ESC

Phoenix BIOSCTRL+ALT+S

Phoenix BIOSCTRL+ALT+INS
ComputerKey Command(s)
Acer®F1, F2, CTRL+ALT+ESC
AST®CTRL+ALT+ESC, CTRL+ALT+DEL
Compaq® 8700F10
CompUSA®DEL
Cybermax®ESC
Dell® 400F3
Dell 400F1
Dell Dimension®F2 or DEL
Dell Inspiron®F2
Dell LatitudeFn+F1 (while booted)
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Bios - View System BIOS Information
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\HARDWARE\DESCRIPTION\System
Value Name: SystemBiosDate, SystemBiosVersion, VideoBiosDate
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value)
Black Screen
Black Screen on Boot
Computer Stops Responding with a Black Screen When You Start Windows
Windows XP Stops Responding at the Welcome Screen
Blank Screen or Operating System Cannot Load Profile at Logon
Blocking Ads
Blocking Ads with a Hosts File:
http://mywebpages.comcast.net/winhelp2002/download.htm
Bootable CD
How to make your XP bootable
How to create a bootable CD for XP with SP1
Microsoft added the ability to Slipstream a Service Pack to Windows XP. It not only has
the advantage that when you reinstall your OS, you'll don't have to apply the Service
Pack later, also if you update any Windows component later, you'll be sure that you get
the correct installation files if Windows needs any. Slipstream Windows XP Service Pack
1
Boot - Disable Splash Screen
Right click My Computer, select Properties. Go to Advanced, Startup and Recovery,
Settings and click the Edit button. Locate the line that loads XP and add /SOS to the end
of it. The resulting line should look something like this:

multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP Professional"
/fastdetect /SOS
Boot - Run a Batch File at Bootup (before XP loads)
How to Run a Batch File Before Logging on to Your Computer (Q243486)
Boot Disks
Obtaining Windows XP Setup Boot Disks (Home & Pro)
An alternative, ONE BOOT DISK, to the Microsoft Windows XP 6 Disk Set
HOW TO: Create a Boot Disk for an NTFS or FAT Partition with Windows XP
Use System Files to Create a Boot Disk to Guard Against Being Unable to Start Win XP
Right click on your Floppy drive. Choose format. an option at the bottom is "Create an
MS-DOS startup disk. This will format the disk and install Dos components.
Boot Config and INI
How do I use Msconfig to modify boot.ini?
A Discussion About the Bootcfg Command and Its Uses
BOOT.INI and ARC Path Naming Conventions and Usage
Alter BOOT.INI to remove secondary listings:
Right click My Computer, select Properties. Advanced, Startup and Recovery. Set the
default OS and and the timeout.
Or...
Remove the line for the old OS in [operating systems] by going to Start/Run, and typing:
C:\Boot.ini. Be sure 'default=' points to the new OS.
Or...
Press WinKey-Break,(or start/run 'sysdm.cpl'), Advanced Tab, "Start Up and Recovery"
area, Settings button, then edit the old line out with the edit button. Reboot, and delete
the files for the old OS.
Boot - Increase Bootup Speed
Right click My Computer Icon/Properties/Hardware/Device Manager. Go to IDE/ATAPI
Controllers. Select Primary Channel/Properties. On the device that does not have a
device type, select disable instead of autodetect.
This example assumes you have 1 Hard drive on your primary IDE channel and a DVDROM(or CD)
and CD-R on your two secondary IDE channels.
Boot - Problems
How to Perform a Clean Boot in Windows XP
How to Use Clean Boot Troubleshooting for Windows XP
How to Troubleshoot By Using the Msconfig Utility in Windows XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_conflicts.htm

How to Disable a Service that Prevents Windows XP from Booting
Use System Files to Create a Boot Disk to Guard Against Being Unable to Start Win XP
Fast Boot /Fast Resume Design: A performance trace visualization tool for use with
Windows XP systems.
Troubleshooting Bootup Problems and Edits
Boot Disk - Control Automatic Boot Disk Optimization
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Dfrg\BootOptimizeFunction
Create a new String value, or modify the existing value, called 'Enable' and edit the value
according to Y = enabled, N = disabled . Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log
out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Bootvis - Decrease Boot Time
Bootvis is a Boot performance trace visualization tool for use with Windows XP systems.
It gives a graphical view of what processes are doing what and when during boot and
allow you to optimize your boot up. A very handy tool.
Download Bootvis:
http://www.microsoft.com/hwdev/platform/performance/fastboot/BootVis.asp
This is a self extracting ZIP file. Double click the file you just downloaded and unzip it to
the folder of your choice. Locate Bootvis.exe click on it. You will now see the GUI of
bootvis.
Now go to File/New and choose "Next boot trace" or "Next boot and drivers chase".
Leave everything else as is and get ready for a reboot in 15 seconds. Then click on the
Bootvis.exe, it will now output the results, once it has finished generating the report, you
will see graphs 5 or 6 graphs. From the main menu .. Click on Trace >> optimize system,
then reboot.
You will see a message box "Please wait for bootvis to load" ... about 20 seconds later
another message box will appear "Optimizing system for boot performance" basically
bootvis is rearranging the boot files for a faster startup. (T. Shuel)
More information:
• Disk: Tracks the time to enumerate all the devices in the non-pageable device path.
This is everything from the CPU to the boot disk drive; multiple IDE devices and slow IDE
devices can affect this time. Typical disk time in Windows XP is 2 seconds.
• Driver: The time it takes to initialize devices.
• Prefetching: The time spent reading pages in from disk used later as devices initialize,
and Winlogon, services, the shell, and other applications start during boot.
• Registry+Page file: The time spent to read the registry and initialize the page file.
• Video: Time spent as the display mode is set for the final resolution and refresh rate.

Video driver and Video BIOS affect this time.
• Logon+Services and Shell: The times to start Winlogon, services, the shell, and so on.
This is mostly the operating system. However, 3rd party software such as anti-virus and
firewall software can effect this time.
You can start a report by selecting Next Boot from the Trace menu, or select Next Boot +
Driver Delays, which will show you if there are any drivers delaying your boot (they will
be displayed in red). Choose to boot your computer, and patiently wait..... After your
machine has rebooted to the desktop, it will still take a while before Bootvis will show its
report, so just wait till it shows up on your screen.
If Bootvis reports that drivers are delaying your boot time, visit the manufacturers Web
site to obtain the latest drivers.
To optimize your system for a faster boot, choose Optimize System from the Trace menu.
Bootvis - Explained by David Candy
Bootvis optimizes the files so it's traces are run on an optimized machine. XP
automatically optimizes itself every three days, bootvis merely makes it the optimization
happen now rather than having to wait three days.
There are two ways of asking XP to do this now. defrag c: -b which rearranges files
according to the current layout.ini and rundll32.exe, advapi32.dll, ProcessIdleTasks
which rebuilds layout.ini from the information in the prefetch folder and and rearranges
files according to the newly generated layout.ini. It also does other tasks (such as some
System Restore stuff) that windows does when the computer is idle.
Bootvis calls ProcessIdleTasks function in advapi32.dll so automated tasks don't kick in
affect the boot monitoring and so the boot monitoring is done on an optimized machine.
You can read about it here : http://www.microsoft.com/hwdev/fastboot/download/fastbootwinxp.ZIP which will explain what those .pf files are in prefetch folder and the registry
keys that control it. The technical documentation on ProcessIdleTask is below from the
platform SDK.
Idle Task Scheduling: The ProcessIdleTask API
The file placement optimization, which is done no more often than once every three
days, is an example of a task that is carried out when the system is deemed to be idle.
System Restore and other features of Windows XP also attempt to defer some work until
the system is deemed to be idle. There are also some done-once-after-setup work items
that also operate under the Idle Task Scheduling mechanisms.
All of these "idle tasks" are controllable by a system API in advapi32.dll,
ProcessIdleTasks. The API’s sole purpose is to allow benchmarks a simple way to force
any pending idle tasks to be executed immediately, without having to wait a lengthy
period of time.
The API ProcessIdleTasks can be called in one of two ways, from the command line or
synchronously from a program. To call ProcessIdleTasks from the command line, use this
syntax:

Rundll32.exe advapi32.dll,ProcessIdleTasks
When called from the command line, the ProcessIdleTasks work is done in the
background asynchronously. It can take 10 to 15 minutes for idle tasks to complete. Task
Manager will report processes running, and the disk will likely be active during this time.
The ProcessIdleTasks API takes no arguments and returns a standard Win32 error code.
The definition is:
DWORD
ProcessIdleTasks()
The API itself is synchronous, so it won’t return until the idle tasks have completed.
Bootable CD
A bootable CD-Rom is a CD from which you boot the PC. This means putting the CD in
your CD-Rom drive and power-on or reboot your system. The PC will load a boot image
from the CD-Rom and control is given to this boot image. Information here: Creating
bootable CD-Roms for PC!
Bootup Problems and Issues
How to Perform a Clean Boot in Windows XP
How to Use Clean Boot Troubleshooting for Windows XP
How to Troubleshoot By Using the Msconfig Utility in Windows XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_conflicts.htm
Windows XP Restarts Continuously with Blue Screen
How to Disable a Service that Prevents Windows XP from Booting
Use System Files to Create a Boot Disk to Guard Against Being Unable to Start Win XP
Bootup - Network
When your computer is connected to a network, booting up Windows XP can take a long
time. A big part of this time is taking up by updating the group policies. This tweak lets
you log on before this process is finished. Because of this, booting up is much faster.
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\policies\syst
em
In this key, look for the following values: SynchronousMachineGroupPolicy and
SynchronousUserGroupPolicy
By default, these values don't exist. If you can't find them, create them as REG_DWORD
values. Set both values to 0.
*Update - Description of the Windows XP Professional Fast Logon Optimization feature
Always wait for the network at computer startup and logon - Enable or Disable

Bootup - Reduce the Time the Startup List is Shown on Boot
Using Windows explorer find the file called BOOT.INI on your system drive. Change the
attributes of the file from read-only, by right clicking on it and choosing Properties, and
then under Attributes, uncheck 'Read-only'. Then double-click on BOOT.INI and it should
open in Notepad.
Under the [boot loader] section is a value called "timeout=". The number after the "="
sign is the time in seconds Windows will wait for a selection. Change the value according
to the options below.
Set the value to the number of seconds between 1 and 999. To make Windows boot
instantly change this value to "0" (i.e. timeout=0). To make Windows wait indefinitely
change this value to "-1" (i.e. timeout=-1). Save the file, and restart Windows for the
change to take effect.
Branding - Remove
Changes the Title Bar Text in Internet Explorer
Remove IE/OE Branding
For IE: Go to Start/Run and enter: rundll32.exe iedkcs32.dll,Clear
Manual Edit: Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main. In the right pane
scroll down to Window Title, double click it and change accordingly.
Briefcase
How to get "My Briefcase" in windows XP
C:\WINDOWS\system32\dllcache. Look for a file named "syncapp" and double click it. An
icon should appear on your desktop that says "My Briefcase". Double click it and it will
come up with this window that tells you how to use it.
HOW TO: Use the Briefcase Feature in Windows XP
Browser Hijacking
Check your settings here: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main. In the right pane
scroll down to Start Page. Double click and under Value data, type in (for example):
http://www.google.com/.
Two regedits: HomePageLock and HomePageUnclock.
IE/Tools/Internet Options/General/Home Page/Address. If the feature is disabled (greyed
out), download this script.
Home Page Setting Changes Unexpectedly, or You Cannot Change Your Home Page
Setting

Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Control Panel.
1. If a HomePage dword value exists in this key, select it.
2. On the Edit menu, click Delete, and then click Yes to confirm the deletion.
StartPage Guard (SPG) protects your PC from cyberscam, by monitoring status of your
internet browser StartPage address and preventing it from any unauthorized changes. It
also can be used to remove or change unwanted startpage address, even if changestartpage-buttons has been disabled. Malicious programs (viruses, trojans, backdoors,
etc.) sometimes change the StartPage to 'gain the ground'. Spywares use this way to
invade user's privacy by tracking destinations which user visited, and collecting personal
information. Free Download.
Ever downloaded a 'Free' program only to find out it was Spyware? (Banner Advertiser
Supported) Or even worse, many will hide the Spyware functions and not tell you. At the
time of this release there were 762 known Spyware programs and Spy Chaser lists them
and lets you enter a program name to see if it's on this list.
Many of those programs don't uninstall the Spyware even after uninstalling the main
program leaving files on your system and entries in the registry you might never get rid
of. For the list: http://camtech2000.net/Pages/SpyChaser.html
Help to Clean Spyware from your System
Lavasoft AD-Aware
detects: Adware, Alexa 1.0-5.0, Attune, Aureate v1.0,2.0 + 3.0, Comet Cursor v1.0 and
v2.0, Cydoor, Doubleclick, DSSAgent, EverAd, EzUla, Expedioware, Flyswat, Gator,
Hotbar 1+2, OnFlow, TimeSink v1.0,v2.0 and v5.0, Web3000, Webhancer, Transponder,
Wnad, ZapSpot, SurfPlus, AdvertBar, NetPal, CashBar, BonziBuddy, WurldMedia,
Lop.com, TopMoxie, BDE Projector, MessageMates, EWA, CommonNameIEBar and
more... (updated regularly).
Cleaning


Lavasoft AD-aware
detects: Adware, Alexa, Aureate v1/2/3, Comet Cursor v1/2, Cydoor, Doubleclick,
DSSAgent, Flyswat, Gator, TimeSink v1/2, Web3000 and Webhancer. Download EXE

Blocking


ZoneAlarm
A personal dynamic firewall that allows you to block spyware communication. With
Stealth mode enabled, the firewall renders your computer invisible to the Internet and to
potential intruders. Mind you, we find that ZoneAlarm itself wants to know too many
details about its users. 1.5Mb. Download EXE

StartPage Guard 1.3
http://www.pjwalczak.com/spguard/index.php

How to Block Comet Cursor in Internet Explorer 5 and 6
http://tech.tln.lib.mi.us/blockcc.htm
Browser Hijacking
http://www.spywareinfo.com/hijacked.html
Spyware
http://www.simplythebest.net/info/spyware.html
Pornography - Clear unwanted files by Content Audit
You can accidentally pick up objectionable PC files from the Internet! ContentAudit provides a
way to safely detect unwanted files. Content Audit is free, safely scans for unwanted content and
has an online checker that works in minutes.
Restrict Web Sites from Installing Software
These restrictions allow you to block unwanted web sites from downloading software onto your
system. This can be useful in disabling the installation of some common "cursor" programs.
Open your registry and find the key below. Start/Run/Regedit
Create a new sub-key for each site you want to block, naming it based on the top-level domain for
the site. For example to block www.restricted.com you would create a new sub-key called:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\InternetSettings\
ZoneMap\Domains\
restricted.com. Under the sub-key create a new DWORD value called "*" and set it to equal "4".
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet
Settings\ZoneMap\Domains
Value Name: *
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (4 = restricted)
Restart Internet Explorer for the change to take effect.
Note: This setting can also be applied on a user-by-user basis by modifying the same key under
the HKEY_CURRENT_USER hive.
Home Page Hijacking - "Has your Browser Been Hijacked?"
Browsing - Speedup (Windows Explorer and Internet Explorer)
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\RemoteCo
mputer\NameSpace In the left pane find: {D6277990-4C6A-11CF-8D87-00AA0060F5BF} Value
and delete it.
Bug Filing

Go Start/Administrative Tools/Component Services/Services (Local). In the right pane, with the
Extended tab selected at the bottom of the screen, scroll the list to Upload Manager. Right-click
and select Properties, then in the center of the next screen in the Startup type: use the arrow to set
it to Automatic. This will allow use of the bug filing program.
Burning CD's
Burning CDs in Windows XP
Compact Disc Recorded in Windows XP Is Missing Files or Folders, or Is Unreadable
Burning CD's - Disable
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ Policies\Explorer
Value Name: NoCDBurning Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value) Value Data: (0 = Allow
CDR, 1 = Disable CDR) Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called
'NoCDBurning' and edit the value according to the settings above.
CD Burning - Disable Native CD Burning in XP
Right click the CD in My Computer/Properties/Recording/Uncheck "Enable CD recording on this
drive."
Disable Native CD Burning and Allow Limited Users Access to CD Burning
CD-Rom Burning - Allow limited users access to CD Burning:
For XP Home: To allow Limited User's to burn CD's, click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT. Go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Look in the right pane for AllocateDASD and double click the entry. Set the value to 2.
On PRO, this is exposed in Local Security Policy under Security Settings\Local Policies\Security
Options "Devices: Allowed to format and eject removable media"
A REG file can be used to set this value as well. It is available here. Download the REG file and
save it to your hard disk. Double click the file you just saved and answer yes to the import
prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking them and selecting Edit.
For XP Pro: You can do this by clicking Start, Run and entering SECPOL.MSC.
Go to Local Policies, Security Options, look in the right pane for Devices: Allowed to Format and
eject removable media. Set this option to Administrators and Interactive Users.
Buttons and Menus
Microsoft has been experimenting a lot with flat buttons and all different kinds of 3D looks. This
tweak introduces a new kind of flat look for buttons and menus and the like. Go to
Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER/Control Panel/Colors. Look for the following values: ButtonHilight
and ButtonShadow

These values will probably exist. If not, create them as REG_SZ values. Set ButtonHilight to the
following value:
128 128 128 and set ButtonShadow to the following value: 255 255 255. You will need to restart
or log off for the new settings to take effect.

Cabinet Files - Restore
From Start, Run, type "msconfig" without the quotes. Click the expand button lower right. You
can then expand and extract to any location. Detailed version:
1. Click Start, and then click Run.
2. In the Open box, type "msconfig" (without the quotation marks), and then click OK.
3. Click Expand File.
4. In the "File to restore" box, type the name of the file that you want to restore.
5. In the "Restore from" box, type the path to the Windows XP .cab file from which you want to
restore the file, or click
Browse From to locate the Windows XP .cab file.
NOTE: The Windows XP .cab files are stored in the I386 folder on the Windows XP compact
disc (CD).
6. In the "Save file in" box, type the path to which you want the new file extracted, or click
Browse To to locate the folder
that you want.
7. Click Expand.
8. In the System Configuration Utility dialog box, click OK. If you are prompted to restart the
computer, click Restart.
Description and Explanation of a Cabinet File
Cab Files Treated as Folders
XP treats Cab files like folders, to stop this type regsvr32 /u cabview.dll at the command prompt
(Start/Run/CMD)
To reverse it type regsvr32 cabview.dll.
Cab Files Install and Relocate
1. Insert your windows XP CD.
2. Click on, Perform Additional Tasks.
3. Click on, Browse this CD.
4. Look for the I386 folder, right click on the folder and copy.
5. Get into, My Computer and create a unique folder.
6. Right click on your new folder and paste.
Then alter the source path: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Setup

In the right pane, double click SourcePath and type in exactly, the path to where the cab files can
be found. (The folder to where the cab files have been copied to). Registry, exit.
Caps - Show File and Folder Names Using the Correct Case
Some versions of Windows will attempt to adjust the capitalization of files and folders that are in
all uppercase to make them more visually pleasing. For example, if you create a folder named
"C:\ALLINCAPS" Windows will actually display it as "C:\Allincaps". This feature can be
disabled using this tweak.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called "DontPrettyPath" and set it to
equal "1" to display the file using their original capitalization or "0" to adjust the caps. Restart
Windows for the change to take effect.
Cdaudio.Exe
Cdaudio.exe May Cause an Error Message
CD - Backup
HOW TO: Back Up Information to a CD
Recorded CD-ROM Is Missing Files or Folders, or Is Unreadable
Q: Will XP Pro allow me to back up various files and folders daily be adding only newer or
changed files or do I have to
copy the entire folder each time I back up?
A: You will need to use packet writing software to format the CD-R/W first. Common packet
writing programs are the latest versions of Direct CD (bundled with Easy CD Creator and is not
available as a stand alone program but can be install as such www.roxio.com ) InCD (available as
a stand a lone program from www.nero.com ) DLA ( comes bundled with the retail version of
RecordNow Max or Click n Burn from http://www.stompinc.com/index.phtml?stp it is available
as a stand a
lone product only if you own an HP writer and can be downloaded from the HP site).
XP's native burning software is mastering software. You can not do a one step write to a CD. You
must send the file to a caching area and then select the option to Write to CD. You also can not
save directly to the CD Writers drive letter. You need to save to the location of the cache. It is
found here "C:\Documents and Settings\<log on name>\Local Settings\Application
Data\Microsoft\CD Burning" By using the Tweakui for XP Powertoy you can relocate the CD
Burning directory to a more readily accessible location. Harry Ohrn MS-MVP [Windows XP]
CD - Files Ready to be Written to the CD (message box keeps appearing)
Default storage is here: Documents and Settings\<username>\Local Settings\Application
Data\Microsoft\CD Burning
If you are using TweakUI, go to My Computer/Special Folders see what is set for CD Burning.
Make sure it is set to a folder and not a drive.
When the balloon appears: There are two commands to the left of the displayed files. One is Copy

to CD and the other is Delete Temporary Files.
If you click Delete Temporary Files, the files listed in the box will disappear. This will not erase
the files from your hard drive, it simply removes them from being copied to the CD.
CD-CD-RW
CD-R Drive or CD-RW Drive Is Not Recognized As a Recordable Device
HOW TO: Erase Files From a CD-RW Disc
CD-Rom
CD-Rom and DVD Articles and Burning Issues
You cannot view the files on a CD or DVD in Windows Explorer:
Close Windows Explorer. Go to Start/Control Panel/Double click System/Hardware/Device
Manager. Expand DVD/CD-ROM. Click the appropriate device, and then click Uninstall on the
Action menu.
When you are prompted to confirm that you want to remove the device, click OK. On the Action
menu, click Scan for hardware changes. Quit Device Manager and Control Panel.
You Cannot View the Files on a Disc After You Replace a CD-R or CD-RW Drive with a DVD or
CD-ROM Drive
CD-ROM Drive or DVD-ROM Drive Missing After You Install Windows XP
"Incorrect Function" Error Message When You Access the CD-ROM Drive, DVD-ROM Drive, or
CD-RW Drive
CD Recording software will cause Windows to become unstable. Windows has prevented these
drivers from loading.
Recorded CD-ROM Is Missing Files or Folders, or Is Unreadable
Restore AutoPlay Icon
CD-ROM Access Is Missing - Error Code 31, Code 32, Code 19, or Code 39 After You Remove
Easy CD Creator
CD Rom or DVD Not Listed in Explorer/My Computer
Save the file to your hard drive. Navigate to where you saved it and double click the file. A
confirmation dialog will appear when the script is done. You may need to reboot for the change to
take effect. Download.
Can't download while playing a CD or running/watching a DVD movie? Disable digital CD
playback.
CD-Rom - Explore
Right-click the "Start" button and click "Explore CD-Rom". To do this: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\CLASSES\Directory\shell\Explore CD-Rom
@=""
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\CLASSES\Directory\shell\Explore CD-Rom\command
@="c:\\windows\\EXPLORER.EXE /e,x:" (Where x is the letter to your CD-Rom).

CD-Rom - Incorrect Contents
When you view the contents of a CD-ROM in Windows Explorer, you can see the name of the
CD-ROM in the left pane, and the folders are displayed in the right pane. However, after you
remove the CD-ROM and insert a different CD-ROM, the right pane may still display the folders
from the first CD-ROM even though the left pane correctly displays the name of the new CDROM.
To work around this problem, use either of the following methods: Manually refresh Windows
Explorer by pressing F5 or by clicking Refresh on the View menu in Windows Explorer. Or do not
use Folder view in Windows Explorer.
Incorrect Contents Are Displayed in Windows Explorer
CD-Rom - Listen To CDs Without A Click
Since the advent of Microsoft’s Windows Media Player, playing an audio CD has been a click-free
task. However, after installing WinXP, when you insert an audio CD for the first time, the Audio
CD dialog box appears. The Play Audio CD Using Windows Media Player is already highlighted,
so there’s no need to click it. But before you click OK, click the checkbox next to Always Do The
Selected Action. This will restore CD playing to its former click-free glory. Click OK and the CD
will play.
CD-Rom Stops Auto-playing
Control Panel/Administrative Tools/Services/Shell Hardware Detection/Return this service to
Automatic.
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\ControlSet\Services\Cdrom
AutoRun = 1
Disable CD AutoPlay for Home or Pro (Line 3)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Enable CD AutoPlay for Pro or Home (Line 10)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Other Auto Play options here under (A) AutoPlay and (C) CD-Roms
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_abc.htm
If you are using TweakUI/My Computer/AutoPlay
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/downloads/powertoys.asp
Restore AutoPlay Icon (Line 17)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Restore AutoPlay Handlers (Line 99)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

CD-Rom Backup
HOW TO: Back Up Information to a CD
Recorded CD-ROM Is Missing Files or Folders, or Is Unreadable
CD-Rom Burning
Burning CDs in Windows XP
How to Use the Built in CD Burning in Windows XP
Compact Disc Recorded in Windows XP Is Missing Files or Folders, or Is Unreadable
CD-Rom Burning - Add to Autoplay Options
Add Your CD Burning Program to AutoPlay Actions
TweakUI/My Computer/AutoPlay/Handlers/Edit
CD-Rom Burning - Disable
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ Policies\Explorer
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'NoCDBurning' and edit the
value according to
0 = Allow CDR, 1 = Disable CDR.
CD-Rom Burning - Disable Native CD burning in XP
Right click the CD in My Computer/Properties/Recording/Uncheck "Enable CD recording on this
drive."
Disable Native CD Burning and Allow Limited Users Access to CD Burning
CD-Rom Burning - Allow limited users access to CD Burning:
To allow Limited User's to burn CD's, click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT. Go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Look in the right pane for AllocateDASD and double click the entry. Set the value to 2.
On PRO, this is exposed in Local Security Policy under Security Settings\Local Policies\Security
Options
"Devices: Allowed to format and eject removable media"
For XP Pro, you can do this by clicking Start, Run and entering SECPOL.MSC.
Go to Local Policies, Security Options, look in the right pane for Devices: Allowed to Format and
eject removable media. Set this option to Administrators and Interactive Users.
Or use this regedit: CD Burning for Limited Users
CD-Rom or DVD Disappeared
Remove the Upperfilters and Lowerfilters values completely from the following registry key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class\{4D36E965-E32511CE-BFC1-08002BE10318}
Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT Go to the branch indicated above, locate the Upperfilters
and Lowerfilters values. Right click each and select Delete.
If you desire, you can right click on the {4D36E965..........} branch and select Export. This will
create a REG file that can be re-imported should you find a need to.
You may also want to delete the following 4 Registry keys, as per the instructions above:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Cdr4_2K
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Cdralw2k
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Cdudf
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\UdfReadr
Or apply this manual edit: Save the file below to your hard drive. Navigate to where you saved it
and double click the file. A confirmation dialog will appear when the script is done. You may need
to reboot for the change to take effect.
CD Rom or DVD Not Listed in Explorer/My Computer
Your registry might be corrupted. (Code 19)
CD-ROM Access Is Missing and Messages Error Code 31, Code 32, Code 19, or Code 39 After
You Remove Easy CD Creator : http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;;Q314060
NOTE : If you are getting a code 39 message, it may be that additional third-party filter drivers
were added to UpperFilters and LowerFilters values in addition to Adaptec filter drivers. In that
case, you may try to remove the non-Adaptec filter drivers first, leaving the Easy Creator filters in
place to see if the Code 39 goes away. If you still receive an error code 39, 32, or 31 message,
remove the Upperfilters and Lowerfilters values completely in the preceding key.
CDR-CDRW
When you attempt to record (burn) data to a compact disc recordable (CD-R) drive or compact
disc rewritable (CD-RW) drive, you may not have the option to send data to the CD-ROM drive.
To resolve this issue, edit the Windows registry to identify the CD-R drive or CD-RW drive as a
recordable drive. To do this, follow these steps.
1. Click Start, and then click Run.
2. In the Open box, type regedit, and then click OK.
3. Expand the following registry subkey:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\CD
Burning\Drives
4. On the File menu, click Export.
5. In the File name box, type backup of drives key, and then click Save .
NOTE: You can restore this registry subkey by double-clicking the backup of drives

key.reg file that you saved.
6. In the left pane of the Registry Editor window, click the Volume{ GUID } folder under
Drives , where GUID is a 32-character hexadecimal globally unique identifier.
NOTE: If you have more than one CD-ROM drive in the computer, an additional
Volume{ GUID } folder is listed for each drive.
7. In the right pane of the Registry Editor window, double-click Drive Type.
8. In the Value data box, type 1 or 2 , depending on the drive type, and then click OK. The
drive type should be 1 if it is a CD-R and 2 if it is a CD-RW.
9. Quit Registry Editor.
10. Click Start , and then click My Computer.
11. Under Devices with Removable Storage , right-click the CD-R drive or CD-RW drive, and
then click Properties on the shortcut menu that appears.
12. If the Recording tab is displayed, the drive is successfully recognized by Windows as a
recordable device.
13. Click Cancel .
NOTE: If you have more than one CD-ROM drive, DVD-ROM drive, or CD-RW drive in
the computer and the Recording tab is not displayed, an incorrect drive may have been
configured as "recordable" in the Windows registry. To troubleshoot this issue, follow
these steps:
a. Follow steps 1 through 9 to edit the Drive Type value of the Volume{ GUID }
folder whose value you previously changed.
b. In the Value data box, type 3 , and then click OK. The drive type value of 3
indicates that the drive is a standard CD-ROM and is not writable.
c. In the left pane of the Registry Editor window, click the next Volume{ GUID }
folder.
d. Follow steps 7 through 8 to change the Value data entry to 1 or 2 , depending on
the drive type.
e. Quit Registry Editor, and then follow steps 10 through 12 to confirm that the
Recording tab is displayed in the properties dialog box of the CD-R drive or CDRW drive.
Note that this may not work in all cases. This is only a workaround in a situation where the CD-R
drive or CD-RW drive is capable of functioning in Windows XP and for some reason has been
misidentified. If the drive is not on the Hardware Compatibility List (HCL), the drive may not
work with the built-in CD copying functionality, regardless of this registry setting.
CD-R Drive or CD-RW Drive Is Not Recognized As a Recordable Device
CD-RW
HOW TO: Erase Files From a CD-RW Disc
Compact Disc Recorded in Windows XP Is Missing Files or Folders or Is Unreadable
Certifications
Free Practice Exams for A+, MCSA, MCSE - 70-215, 70-270, 220-302

Change Default Directory for Installing Applications in the Program Files folder:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Current Version
Name: ProgramFilesDir
Type: REG_EXPAND_SZ
Value: C:\Program Files default
Verify or Change Program Download Directory (Line 82)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Increase Internet Explorer Downloads to 10 (Line 55)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Change User Pictures
Default Pictures are stored here:
Windows Explorer\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Microsoft\User Account
Pictures\Default Pictures
Restore User Default Pictures (Line 58)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
HOW TO: Add or Change a User's Picture in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q292434
How to Add a Specific Picture
Find a picture you are interested in using and use Save As to download and/or move the picture in
question to your My Pictures Folder. Then go to User Account/Change my picture/Browse for
more pictures/My Pictures Folder/Choose the picture you want to use, then click Open.
Summary of an image is 48x48/71 dpi, depth 24.
Note: If you have disabled Picture and Fax Viewer by using regsvr32 /u shimgvw.dll, you will not
be able to change the picture. To restore, go to Start/Run and type in: regsvr32 shimgvw.dll
How to Add or Change a User's Picture
Restore User Default Pictures
Check Disk - Disk Checking Runs Upon Boot
Check Disk runs on every boot: Note - I have seen this happen when Windows File Protection has
either been disabled or not allowed to run upon canceling the bootup Check Disk.
Suggestions and Checkpoints:
Go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: fsutil dirty query c:
(Modify the drive letter accordingly)
If it comes back as dirty, it hasn't cleared. For more information go to Start/Run/CMD and type in:

CHKNTFS /?
Option: From a command prompt type chkntfs /D and then reboot, a chkdsk should run but not
again on next boot.
This edit does not work for all users, circumstances depending:
Disable or Enable CheckDisk Upon Boot (Line 82)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the Regedit: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting
Edit.
Chkdsk Runs Each Time That You Start Computer
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q316/5/06.asp
Checkpoint:
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Highlight the Winlogon file.
In the list look for "SFCScan", this should be set to (0) if it is set to (1) the scan will happen at
every boot.
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager
Look for the REG_MULTI_SZ value with the following name: BootExecute. This value contains
commands that will be executed at startup. The default value is: autocheck autochk *
After scheduling one or more chkdsks, the entry will contain one or more autochk lines. Delete
each of these lines and put the default one in place.
If you always want a check to be performed at startup, change the value to: autocheck autochk /f *
If you don't want any checks to be performed, delete all autocheck entries.
Last checkpoint: Modify as needed:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyCom
puter\cleanuppath
Registry entry should read: %SystemRoot%\system32\cleanmgr.exe /D %c
How to schedule a CHKDSK on every boot
Chkdsk Runs Each Time That You Start Computer After Upgrade to Windows XP
Scandisk after a Bad Shutdown - Go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: CHKNTFS/T:4
Where 4 is the amount of waiting time.

Automating Disk Cleanup Tool in Windows
An Explanation of CHKDSK and the New /C and /I Switches
Use the scheduler and run chkdsk with the automatic switches for unattended operation (chkdsk /?
will list the options for you). To open Scheduled Tasks, click Start, click All Programs, point to
Accessories, point to System Tools, and then click Scheduled Tasks. You can also use TweakUI to
automatically login if you have logged off the system to allow chkdsk access.
Restore Disk Cleanup - cleanmgr (Line 84)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Disk Cleanup freezes during the Compressed File Phase: This edit correct the problem:
Disk Cleanup - Compressed Old Files Freezes (Line 48)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the Regedit: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting
Edit.
How to Automate the Disk Cleanup Tool in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;Q315246
Classic Color Palettes
Choose among Windows XP's color palettes: Right click the desktop, select Properties, click the
Appearance tab, and choose a new palette under Color Scheme. At the time of this writing, using
Windows XP RC1, the only choices available other than the default blue were olive green and
silver.
For a larger selection of palettes, and if you don't mind giving up the "new-and-improved" feel of
Windows XP, select Windows Classic under Windows and Buttons. Now click the down arrow
under Color Scheme and you'll see lots of choices. Select any one to see what it looks like in the
preview area, then click OK to apply it.
Classic Start Menu
If you've been used to previous versions of Windows, you'll notice some big changes when you
click the Start button. If you like the new layout, then great. But if you don't, feel free to go back
to the familiar. Right click the Start button (or a blank area of the Start menu) and select
Properties. On the Start Menu tab of the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties dialog box, select
Classic Start Menu, then click OK.
Classic Start Menu - Force Use
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ Policies\Explorer.
Value Name: NoSimpleStartMenu, Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value), Value Data: (1 =
force classic menu, 0 = default). Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called
'NoSimpleStartMenu' and edit the value according to the settings below. Exit your registry, you
may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.

Both edits can be downloaded from here: http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Classic View
Click Start, Run and enter CONTROL. You should get an Explorer window with the Common
Tasks pane. At the top is the option to Switch to Category view. If you don't get the Common
Tasks pane, click on the Folders button on the Toolbar.
Common Tasks View - Disable or Enable (Line 78)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Control Panel - Classic or Category View (Line 145)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the Regedit: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting
Edit.
Cleaning Up XP
Unexplained computer behavior may be caused by deceptive software
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;827315
Download each and run:
Ad-Aware
http://www.lavasoftusa.com/
VX2 Cleaner:
http://www.lavasoft.de/software/plugins/vx2cleaner.shtml or:
http://tools.zerosrealm.com/VX2Finder.exe
Spybot
http://tinyurl.com/btf8
CWShredder (Line 313)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Hijack This
http://www.spychecker.com/program/hijackthis.html
Tip: Browser Hijack and Malware Removal Forums
http://forums.net-integration.net/index.php?c=19
How to obtain the most effective support
http://www.net-integration.net/tools/procedure.html
Spyware, Thiefware, Browser Hijackers, etc. Parasites Forum
http://forums.spywareinfo.com/index.php?
s=7dc481729338294fb5d64090b77ef364&showtopic=9882

BHODemon: http://www.definitivesolutions.com/bhodemon.htm
Download: http://www.definitivesolutions.com/files/BHODemon10Setup.exe
SpywareBlaster doesn't scan and clean for spyware. It prevents it from ever being installed.
http://majorgeeks.com/download2859.html
Custom Entries for SpywareBlaster
http://mvps.org/winhelp2002/blaster.htm
Download.Ject Payload Detection and Removal Tool
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=FC84B8B5-A64D-4837-B65F96925A514F71&displaylang=en
Free Online Virus Scan
http://housecall.trendmicro.com/housecall/start_corp.asp
This link has some of the above listed for quick downloads:
http://www.lurkhere.com/~nicefiles/
Tutorials on how to use them in detail:
http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/index.php?showtutsection=38
Manual Checkpoints:
Go to Start/Control Panel/Add or Remove - Uninstall obvious added programs.
Added info for later:
Troubleshooting, Removing and/or Cleaning Add or Remove Programs
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_a.htm#addremove
If you receive any type of error message while attempting to delete or remove:
a. Open the Task Manager, end process on said.
b. Go to Start/Run/msconfig/Startup (uncheck all seem able problematic listings) to get
the exact location(s) read the path to each and delete the entries.
To do so, move the glider over to read. If that doesn't offer enough viewable
information, run the program below and read the log file:
Windows XP Startup Program Tracker - MVP Doug Knox
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/utils/StartupTracker3.zip
More info for later:
Clear Disabled Items from Msconfig Startup (Line 148)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
c. Go to Start/Run/msconfig/Services. Place a check in the box that reads: Hide All
Microsoft Services, then evaluate the list left. For troubleshooting measures, uncheck all
of them. And/or: Start/Run/services.msc and stop/disable the Service(s) in question.

Tip: To Delete a Service
In Services take note of the Service Name (not the display name). Then go to Start/Run/CMD
and type in: sc delete <service name>. Reboot.
Or: Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services
Locate the Service in the list. Delete it, reboot.
For a list of legitimate XP Services:
Black Viper's Windows XP Home and Professional Services Configurations:
http://www.blackviper.com/WinXP/servicecfg.htm
d. Check your Startup Folder (right click the Start button/Expore All Users...) for the
same.
e. In very rare cases, there can be an added: Windows/Run here: Start/Run/msconfig/Win.ini
If this is present, uncheck what is listed there.
f. Again, rare but some add Load and Run in the key below: Most times left blank, delete both of
them.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows
Advanced:
Go to Start/Run/regedit and navigate to these keys:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
Delete anything listed here that you don't normally need or have placed yourself and/or is
set pragmatically to run upon boot. Note: These are often third party iconized programs
that are placed in the Notification Area.
Tip: Run, RunOnce, RunServices, RunServicesOnce and Startup
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q179/3/65.asp
Added info for later:
Troubleshooting the Notification Area
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_n.htm#na
NOTE: Messenger Service pop-ups are not the same as Spyware, etc pop-ups. More info here:
You need to turn turn on the firewall.
To disable the Messenger Service:

Go to Start/Control Panel/Administrative Tools/Services. Double click the Messenger Service and
change Automatic to Disabled, then click the Stop button.
Or use this automated edit:
Disable Messenger Service (Line 95)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Home PC Firewall Guide
http://www.firewallguide.com/
More information and options here on using a Firewall:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_m.htm#ms
Update: Quick Launch - As of late, the removal of wsaupdater.exe causes the Quick Launch
toolbar to not
remain checked/present nor retains the sort order. To correct, verify your values here:
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon.
In the right pane under Userinit, Change the key to read:
C:\Windows\System32\Userinit.exe,
Once done, run the Taskbar Repair (clickable link on page) and/or Quick Launch repair from here,
then the add on edit.
Update: Quick Launch: Gives error message, Cannot Create Toolbar
Either download the file from here or run my utility listed below it to correct.
Note: If you already had my utility downloaded, you will need to re-download for the added fix.
Cannot Create Toolbar - Quick Launch (Line 296)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Taskbar Repair Tool Plus! Quick Launch - Repair
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/taskbarplus!.htm
Save Settings on Exit (Line 54)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the Regedit: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes
to the import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and
selecting Edit.
Another checkpoint:
In Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/View make sure all of your System files are viewable.
Once done, right click
the Quick Launch task bar/Open Folder. Verify that desktop.ini is present. If not, create one and

place it there.
Example (modify as needed) for the others:
[LocalizedFileNames]
Launch Internet Explorer [email protected],-11003
Windows Media Player.lnk=@C:\WINNT\inf\unregmp2.exe,-4
Show [email protected],-6100
Navigate to this key, delete it, refresh:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MenuOrder\F
avorites\Links
Go to Start/Run and type in each of these separately and hit ok.
regsvr32 msdxm.ocx
regsvr32 browseui.dll
regsvr32 shell32.dll
regsvr32 shdocvw.dll
Toolbars missing in Windows Explorer or Internet Explorer
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/ToolbarRepair.Exe
Restore Search/Address Bar to XP Default
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/regs_edits/RestoreSearch2.REG
Restore Toolbars: Toolbars Greyed Out or Missing
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/regs_edits/toolbarsgreyedout.reg
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/taskbarplus!.htm
In IE - Go to Tools/Internet Options/Advanced and uncheck: Enable third party browser
extensions.
If still nothing: Disable all third party programs and/or:
How to Perform a Clean Boot in Windows XP
How to Use Clean Boot Troubleshooting for Windows XP
How to Troubleshoot By Using the Msconfig Utility in Windows XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_conflicts.htm
Then try again.
Lastly: If none of the above has helped:
Enable Reinstallation of Internet Explorer or OE (Line 114)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Then re-install IE - Go to Start/Run, and type :
"rundll32.exe setupapi,InstallHinfSection DefaultInstall 132 %windir%\inf\ie.inf"
How to Reinstall or Repair Internet Explorer and Outlook Express in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q318378

Note: Many Zone Alarm users have stated that this happened after the latest update.
If your case is more extreme from the above mentioned .exe, thus resulting in your not
being able to select a user nor log into Windows XP:
Verified by Rick Lewis:
Place your XP CD in and navigate to the Recovery Console.
Tip: HOW TO: Install and Use the Recovery Console in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q307654
At the prompt: Change the C:\Windows prompt to: C:\Windows\System32 and copy
userinit.exe to wsaupdater.exe
Reboot into Safe Mode, go to Start/Run/Regedit, navigate to the key below and
and modify/change Userinit: from wsaupdater.exe, to userinit.exe,
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT
\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Other than that: Go to Start/Run and type in: %SystemRoot%\Debug\UserMode\Userenv.log
Added info:
Recovering XP using the Recover Console (Line 333) Right hand side:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Update: CWS Hijacker disables cleaners. Workaround by 3bentarrows:
The way to remove the registry key is not obvious. If you just delete it from regedit, since the
trojan
DLL is loaded, it will re-add it right back. (Try it. Delete the AppInit_DLLs registry key and hit
F5.
Notice that it's added right back by the trojan).
Go to Start/Run/regedit and navigate to this key:
1. Rename the HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows folder to
Windows2.
2. Now delete the AppInit_DLLs key under the Windows2 folder.
3. Hit F5 and notice that AppInit_DLLs doesn't come back.
4. Rename the Windows2 folder back to Windows.
Now that AppInit_DLLs is gone, run the latest Adaware 6 to remove the trojan for good. Reboot
your machine.
Check the registry and make sure AppInit_DLLs is still gone. Your computer should be free of
this for good now.
Or download and merge this edit from MVP Mike Burgess:

RepairAppInit.reg
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/RepairAppInit.reg
Tip: common edits needed after running cleaners:
EXE and LNK Fix for Windows XP - Line 12
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Tip: For all other File Association Fixes
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/file_assoc.htm
Reset IE Search back to XP Default (Line 229)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Restore/Repair Toolbars in IE and/or Windows Explorer (Line 3)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Restore All Tabs under Internet Options (Line 268)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Restore Start Button, Desktop and Taskbar to XP Default:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/taskbarplus!.htm
More registry fixes here: http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Just for your information:
To get a better idea of some of the types and definitions:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malware.
For a list of Known Spyware: http://virgolamobile.50megs.com/spyware/spyware.htm
Adware, Spyware and other unwanted "malware" - and how to remove them:
http://cexx.org/adware.htm
If you have unwanted programs loading and bugging you at startup, here's how to get rid of
them. http://cexx.org/startup.htm
Virus Encyclopedia: http://www.symantec.com/avcenter/vinfodb.html
Virus Descriptions: Alphabetical List - http://ve.nod32.ch/
Hoax Description Databases: http://www.symantec.com/avcenter/hoax.html
and http://www.f-secure.com/news/hoax.htm
Dealing with Unwanted Spyware and Parasites - MVP Mike Burgess
http://mvps.org/winhelp2002/unwanted.htm
NOTE: Special thanks to David Candy for his help with the continuing research in this
area/matter.

Clear History
Temp Files: IE/Tools/Internet Options/Delete Temporary Internet Files
Temp Files: C:\Documents and Settings\<username>\Local Settings\Temp & TIF
Cookies: C:\Documents and Settings\<username>\Cookies
History: C:\Documents and Settings\<username>\Local Settings\History
Typed URL's: Start/Run/Regedit: Open your registry and find the key below and delete any value
you want to remove.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\TypedURLs
Clearing History May Not Remove Pages You Visited Today in Internet Explorer
Clear Recent File Lists
Prevent History of Typed URL's and Prevent Document History Registry Edits
Removes your Internet history in Internet Explorer and Netscape. Clears the address list dropdown, cached files, history and cookies. In Windows it clears the TEMP folder and Recycle Bin,
the run history, recent documents, and find files history. It also deletes locked files ("index.dat"
and files that are in use by applications). Clean out Usage Tracks in Windows
Clear Recent MRU
Clear Recent File Lists in XP (Typed URL's, Media Player Play List, Run Commands, Search
History...). Download here.
Clear Search History
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Search Assistant\ACMru. Delete the key. To
prevent keeping a history altogether, right click ACMru/Permissions/Deny all users and groups
listed.
Clear Search History under Search (Line 24)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Clear Recent File Lists - Clears Search History
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/ClearRecent.Exe
Clear System Restore Points
Start/All Programs/Accessories/System Tools/Disk Cleanup. "More Options" tab, see the option to
delete all but the last restore point.
Clear Type
Microsoft ClearType
Clear Type - Active Clear Type on the Welcome Screen
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_USERS/.DEFAULT/Control Panel/Desktop. In the right pane, right click
"FontSmoothingType", modify, change the value to 2.

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Name: NoCommonGroups
Data Type: dword
Value: 00000001
A value of 1 hides the common groups, a value of 0 displays them.
Clock - Hide
On the right side of your Windows XP Taskbar, you see a clock and a number of notification icons
(also known as the "tray" of the Taskbar in previous versions of Windows). Unlike its
predecessors, Windows XP provides a number of options for customizing this "Notification Area."
For example, if you don't want the clock there (unnecessary if you have one on your desk
already), Right click a blank area of the Taskbar and select Properties. Under Notification area,
deselect Show the Clock, then click OK.
Cluster Size
The Default Cluster Size for the NTFS and FAT File Systems
Cmaudio.ax
Problems When You Are Using an Out-of-Date Version of the C-Media Cmaudio.ax Driver File
Command Line Switches for Windows Explorer
Right click Windows Explorer/Properties and type this into the Target path:
To have C: open (No folders)
%SystemRoot%\Explorer.exe /root, C:\
To have C: open expanded: %windir%\EXPLORER.EXE /e,c:
To have C: open and My Documents:
%windir%\EXPLORER.EXE /e,c:,%HOMEDRIVE%%HOMEPATH%\My Documents
For it to open to My Documents:
explorer /n,/e,%HOMEDRIVE%%HOMEPATH%\My Documents or
C:\WINDOWS\explorer.exe /n,/e,%HOMEDRIVE%%HOMEPATH%\My Documents
To have My Documents open only (No folders):
Explorer /root, c:\Documents and Settings\%username%\My Documents
If you wish to have Explorer open at My Documents on another drive, you would use:
%SystemRoot%\explorer.exe /e, f:\My Documents
To have another Drive letter assigned to opening: D for example: C:\Windows\Explorer.exe /e, d:\
d:\ can be modified for any folder/sub-folder you like. As in: %SystemRoot%\Explorer.exe
/e,d:\My Stuff

The /e switch tells Windows Explorer to open in the two pane explorer mode and the c:\ tells it to
open in folder C:\. If you omit the /e switch, Windows Explorer opens in a single pane view.
HOW TO: Have Windows Explorer Default to the %SystemRoot% Drive When Started
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;en-us;257518
Command-Line Switches for Windows Explorer
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/Q130/5/10.asp
Command Prompt - Add to the Right Click
Download here or see: http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Command Prompt - Change the command prompt to C:
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Command Processor\AutoRun. In the right
pane, double click Autorun and type in: cd\ as the value data.
Other options:
This setting allows you to change the format of the command prompt to show additional
information instead of just the current drive and path ("C:\>"). To do so, go to Start/Run/Regedit
and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session
Manager\Environment. In the right pane, double click the REG_EXPAND_SZ string named
PROMPT and modify the Value data accordingly:
Special Codes
$A - & (Ampersand)
$B - | (pipe)
$C - ( (Left parenthesis)
$D - Current date
$E - Escape code (ASCII code 27)
$F - ) (Right parenthesis)
$G - > (greater-than sign)
$H - Backspace (erases previous character)
$L - < (less-than sign)
$N - Current drive
$P - Current drive and path
$Q - = (equal sign)
$S - (space)
$T - Current time
$V - Windows XP version number
$_ - Carriage return and linefeed
$$ - $ (dollar sign)
Variables

%USERNAME% - Current Username
%COMPUTERNAME% - Local computer name
%USERDOMAIN% - Local domain name
The default prompt is "$P$G" (e.g. "C:\>"), some alternatives include:
[%computername%]$S$P$G to show the computer, drive and path
[%username%]$S$P$G to show the current user, drive and path
Restart or log-off Windows for the change to take effect.
Command Prompt - Run Startup Programs
This setting allows you to specify commands or programs to be automatically executed whenever
a command processor is launched. For example, to set environment variables or parameters using
a batch file.
Create a new string value called "AutoRun" and set the value to equal the commands to be
automatically executed. Multiple commands should be seperated by double ampersands e.g.
"command1 && command2". The changes will take effect the next time the command processor
is used.
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Command Processor]
Value Name: AutoRun
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value)
Value Data: Command to Execute
Command Prompt - Quick Edit
Quick Edit allows you to easily cut and paste text in the command prompt window using the
mouse. The ability to use the Edit menu options is still possible. Go to Start/Run/Regedit and
navigate to this key:
Per User: [HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Console] Per System: System Key:
[HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Console]
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called "QuickEdit" and set it
according to (0 = disabled, 1 = enabled). Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of
Windows for the change to take effect.
Common Dialog - History
By default, Windows Explorer-style dialog boxes (for example, the Open dialog box and the Save
As dialog box) provide both a most-recently-used (MRU) list of file names and an AutoComplete
list of previously typed file names.
To prevent the MRU list and the AutoComplete list of file names from appearing, use the
procedures that are described in this section.
How to Prevent the MRU List of File Names from Appearing

NOTE : After you complete this procedure, the MRU list does not appear in Windows Explorerstyle dialog boxes; however, this list is not removed from the registry.
Windows XP Professional: Log on as the user. Click Start, and then click Run. Type gpedit.msc,
and then click OK.
In the left pane under User Configuration, expand Administrative Templates, expand Windows
Components, expand Windows Explorer, and then click Common Open File Dialog. In the right
pane, double-click Hide the dropdown list of recent files. Click Enabled, and then click OK. Click
File, and then click Exit.
Windows XP Home Edition: Log on as the user. Click Start, and then click Run. Type regedit,
and then click OK .
Locate and then click the following key in the registry:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Comdlg32
NOTE : If the Comdlg32 key does not exist, follow these steps: Click the Policies key. On the
Edit menu, point to New, and then click Key. Type comdlg32, and then press ENTER. On the Edit
menu, point to New, and then click DWORD Value.
Type nofilemru, and then press ENTER. On the Edit menu, click Modify. Type 1, and then click
OK. On the File menu, click Exit.
How to Prevent the AutoComplete List of File Names from Appearing
To prevent the AutoComplete list from appearing in typical Windows Explorer-style dialog boxes,
turn off the AutoComplete functionality for Windows and Microsoft Internet Explorer: Start
Internet Explorer, click Tools, and then click Internet Options. Click the Content tab, and then
click AutoComplete. Under Use AutoComplete for, click to clear the Web Addresses check box,
and then click OK. Click the Advanced tab, click to clear the Use inline AutoComplete check box
in the Browsing section (if this check box has been selected). Click OK.
Common Groups - Hide
In the Start Menu, groups (subfolders) in the upper part of the Programs menu are specific to each
user, while groups (subfolders) in the lower part are common to all users. In order to prevent a
user from viewing the common groups, make the following Registry change:
Common Tasks
Remove Common Tasks from Desktop. This Regedit or small VB Script utility will modify the
System Registry to remove Common Tasks from your Desktop. Regedit or VB Script
Common Tasks - Don't Match Folder Type (by Keith Miller)
Common Tasks - Show Common Tasks in Folders (Missing or greyed out)
Check your settings here: Start/Run/gpedit.msc/User Configuration/Administrative
Templates/Windows Components/Windows Explorer. In the right pane, double click Turn on
Classic Shell and choose Enable. Another checkpoint: Start/Control
Panel/System/Advanced/Performance/Settings/Visual Effects/Use common tasks in folders.

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Compaq
Compaq is committed to bringing you the best computing experience available, whether you are
purchasing a new PC with Windows XP installed or you already own a Microsoft Windows XP
Ready PC. Our qualifying accessories and Presario PCs meet all the minimum hardware
requirements to make it easy to upgrade to Windows XP Home Edition. Support.
Compatibility Mode - Explained
Using Program Compatibility Mode
Compatibility Wizard
Windows XP Program Compatibility Wizard (detailed walk through)
HOW TO: Use the Program Compatibility Wizard
Compressed Files and Folders - Change Display Color
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ Explorer. Value Name:
AltColor, Data Type: REG_BINARY (Binary Value), Value Data: 00 00 ff 00 (default). Create a
new binary value, or modify the existing value, named "AltColor" and set it to equal the
hexadecimal RGB color value for the files and folders. Restart Windows for the change to take
effect. Note: The option to "Display compressed files and folders with alternate color" must be
enabled in explorer.
Compressed Folders - Disable Compressed Folders in Windows XP
Windows XP includes a built-in feature to manage compressed ZIP files and folders. This tweak
allows you to disable it and install a third-party application.
To disable the compressed folder feature click on Start/Run and enter the following command:
regsvr32 /u zipfldr.dll.
To enable ZIP folder support run this command: regsvr32 zipfldr.dll. Restart Windows for the
change to take effect.
Compressed Folders - Extract Files From
Extracting files from a compressed folder is just as easy as getting them in there. Right-click the
*.zip file and select Extract All. Identify a destination folder (click Browse, and so on), click Next,
then click Finish. As an alternative, click and drag a file from inside the compressed folder to
another location, then let go.
Compressed Folder - Restore Icon
Start/Run and Type: regsvr32 zipfldr.dll
Computer Jargon

Computer Jargon by Babylon
Confirm Open after Download
Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/File Types/[File type in question]/Advanced/Confirm
open after download.
Containing Text - Search Issue
Windows® XP has a known issue for not finding a number of File Types when you do a Search
for Files "containing text" or using the "A word or phrase in the file" option. This can be remedied
for many file types, but not all. The cause is the lack of a PersistentHandler value in the Registry
for this type of file. Fix: http://www.dougknox.com/xp/tips/xp_bad_search.htm
Using the "A Word or Phrase in the File" Search Criterion May Not Work
Content Advisor
Remove the Content Advisor and Ratings Password
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Ratings
Open your registry, find the key below. Single click on the key to highlight it, press the DELETE
key, or alternatively select Delete from the Edit menu. Close Internet Explorer, re-open it, and the
Content Advisor feature should be disabled.
Content Advisor - Apply per user
Content Advisor On (vb script). Download it (you may want to right click and use Save Target
As) and save it to your desktop. Then place it in the startup folder of each account you want it
activated in.
Next, download the Content Advisor Off (vb script) and place it in each startup folder that you
don't want/need it activated in.
Both scripts can be found here: (scroll to the very bottom)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Content Advisor Restrictions
These settings allow you to control the Content Advisor feature of Internet Explorer. Including the
option to disable Content Advisor, require a supervisor password and view unrated content.
Open your registry (Start/Run/Regedit) and find the key below, create it if it does not already
exist.
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Ratings\
.Default]
Value Name: Allow_Unknowns, Enabled, PleaseMom
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = disable, 1 = enable restriction)

Create a new DWORD value for each required restriction from the list below.




Enabled - (1 = enable content advisor, 0 = disable)
Allow_Unknowns - (1 = display unrated sites, 0 = restrict unrated sites)
PleaseMom - (1 = allow supervisor password, 0 = no supervisor override)

Restart Internet Explorer for the changes to take effect.
Context Menu - Customizing Windows Explorer Context menu (right click menu in
windows explorer)
Ever wondered how does the right click menu (which is actually a context menu) work? For
example, when I right click in windows explorer, I see an option which says "open command
window here". This is seen because you have following entries in the registry.
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Drive\shell\cmd]
@="Open Command Window Here"
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Drive\shell\cmd\command]
@="C:\WINDOWS\System32\cmd.exe /k cd "%1""
If You have never used a tweaking utility and have newly installed Windows XP, You would not
see this option. You would have to navigate to [[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Drive] go and create
two subkeys ("cmd" and within that "command" and would have to put the text "Open Command
Window Here" without quotes in default string value of "cmd" key and the text
"C:\WINDOWS\System32\cmd.exe /k CD"%1"" without quotes in default string value of
command key). After this You need to REBOOT for these changes to take effect.
Context Menus (Right Click) - Deleting entries
Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT Go to:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\*\OpenWithList
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\*\shellex\ContextMenuHandlers
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Directory\shell
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Directory\shellex\ContextMenuHandlers
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Drive\shell
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Drive\shellex\ContextMenuHandlers
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shellex\ContextMenuHandlers
You can also go to a specific File extension (example: HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.txt\ShellNew)
and right click on the ShellNew key and select Delete, if the item shows up in the New context
menu.
Expand the above branch and look through the sub-keys. Locate the one that corresponds to the
entry you wish to remove and right click that sub-key and select Edit.
You may wish to right click the desired sub-key and select Export. This will create a REG file that
you can double click to re-import the information, if you find out you deleted the wrong one, or
want it back.

Customizing Right-Click Menu Options in Windows
Right Click - Submenus
The new OpenExpert is the answer to this problem! Instead of messing around with a fixed
association of a file type with only one application, it adds an "Open with" item to the context
menu of the chosen file type with all the applications you decide.
Control-Alt-Delete - Enable
To Enable or Disable the CTRL+ALT+DELETE Sequence
1. Click Start, click Control Panel, and then click User Accounts.
2. Click the Advanced tab.
3. In the "Secure logon" section, select or clear the "Require users to press Ctrl+Alt+Delete"
check box.
If you want to set up a requirement for a user to press CTRL+ALT+DEL before the classic logon
is displayed, in the same manner as it behaves on Windows XP Server:
1. Click Start/Run/Regedit, and then click OK.
2. Select the Winlogon subkey at the following registry location:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
3. Click Edit, click New, and then click "DWORD value".
4. Change the value name to "DisableCAD" (without the quotes) and press ENTER.
5. Keep the data value set to 0 which is displayed as 0x00000000(0).
If the Welcome screen is enabled, the computer can be locked if you press CTRL+ALT+DELETE
(to open Task Manager), and then click Lock Computer or click Switch User on the Shut Down
menu.
Control, Alt, Delete Process Explained and Key Commands
Control-Alt-Delete - Use Crtl + Alt + Delete to Restart the Computer
Normally when you press Ctrl + Alt + Delete the Windows task list is displayed. Using this tweak
the key combination will instead reboot the computer. Open the SYSTEM.INI file found in the
Windows directory using Notepad.
Under the [386Enh] section create or modify the value named "KybdReboot". Set the value to
equal "True" to cause the system to reboot on the key combination or "False" to show the task list.
For example:
[386Enh]
KybdReboot=False
Restart Windows for the change to take effect.
Control, Alt, Delete Process Explained and Key Commands

Control Panel Applets
This tweak does not prevent the control panel applets from running, they just do not show up in
control panel any more.
Start/Run/gpedit.msc. User Configuration/Administrative Templates Folder/Control Panel Folder.
Select Show only specified Control Panel Applets (right pane) properties. Select the enable
button/click the Show button.
A new window will pop up that will display control panel objects that are OK to show. Items not
on this list will not be displayed in control panel when this feature is enabled. Here are the
Windows XP Pro Control Panel applets:
System Properties = sysdm.cpl
Network Connections = ncpa.cpl
ODBC Administrator = odbccp32.cpl
Display Properties = desk.cpl
Add or remove programs = appwiz.cpl
Internet Properties = Inetcpl.cpl
Game Controllers = joy.cpl
Phone and modem Options = telephon.cpl
Time and Date Properties = timedate.cpl
Region and Language Options = intl.cpl
Power Options = powercfg.cpl
Mouse Properties = main.cpl
Accessibility Options = access.cpl
Add Hardware Wizard = hdwwiz.cpl
Sound and Audio Devices = mmsys.cpl
User Accounts = nusrmgr.cpl
Speech Properties = sapi.cpl
Control Panel - Classic
You can remove the "common tasks" pane from the left side of your open folder windows: inside
a folder window, click the Folder Options icon, select Use Windows Classic Folders, then click
OK. Similarly, you can switch from the new, task-oriented Control Panel (great for new users or
those who want to perform common tasks without wading through dialog boxes) back to the
"classic" version. Open the Control Panel (select Start, Control Panel), and in the common tasks
pane on the left side of the window, click Switch to Classic View.
Control Panel - Display
This setting specifies the visual style of the Control Panel. Allowing you to either force the use of
the new XP style, classic style or allow the user to select the preferred style. Go to
Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'ForceClassicControlPanel' and
edit the value according to the settings (0 = force new, 1 = force classic). Exit your registry, you
may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.

Control Panel - Icons Missing
Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT
Go to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\don't load
Look in the right pane and you'll see the Control Panel Icons that have been disabled. You can
either right click on the "don't load" subkey and select Delete to restore all disabled icons, or you
can right click on each of the items in the right pane and select Delete to selectively restore them.
Scroll up to Control Panel Applets for a listing of what each one is.
The change will be seen the next time you open Control Panel.
Control Panel - Tools (Reference)
Have You noticed the new view of control panel in XP. Well as its says, its a view and you can
switch to a classic view anytime. But if you like the view but want to customize the categories,
there is again a good article on How to do this :
How to Add a Control Panel Tool to a Category (Q292463).
You can get complete details by visiting the site but in brief a control Panel tool can be included in
a particular category by adding a registry DWORD entry for the tool in the following registry
key: Go to Start/Run/Regedit:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Control
Panel\Extended Properties\{305CA226-D286-468e-B848-2B2E8E697B74} 2. Value category ids
are:
0x00000000 : Other Control Panel Options (any tool that does not specify a category ID is placed
in this category)
0x00000001 : Appearance and Themes
0x00000002 : Printers and Other Hardware
0x00000003 : Network and Internet Connections
0x00000004 : Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices
0x00000005 : Performance and Maintenance
0x00000006 : Date, Time, Language, and Regional Options
0x00000007 : Accessibility Options
0xFFFFFFFF : Do not put the tool in any category (for special tools such as Add/Remove
Programs which only start directly).
Control Userpasswords2 - Add to Control Panel
Copying User Profiles
How to Copy User Profiles
Copying User Profiles - Copy To Button Disabled
This issue can occur if the account that you are trying to copy is currently logged on; you cannot
copy a user profile while you are logged on as that user.

To resolve this issue, verify that the user account is not logged on before you try to copy its
profile. If you are currently logged on as this user, log off, log on again by using a different user
account, and then copy the profile.
If you are not logged on as the user account that you are trying to copy, that account may be
logged on in a different session (using Fast User Switching). To force that account to be logged
off, start Task Manager, click the Users tab, click the user account, and then click Logoff.
To work around this behavior, you can also create a user who has administrative privileges, log on
as that user, and then copy the profile of the first user.
"Copy To" Button in System Properties Dialog Box Is Unavailable
Crash Report
Windows® Online Crash Analysis
If you experience a blue screen crash event, or Stop error, while using Microsoft Windows XP,
you can upload the error report for analysis. http://oca.microsoft.com/welcome.asp
CTFMON
CTFMon is involved with the language/alternative input services in Office XP. CTFMON.exe will
continue to put itself back into MSConfig when you run the Office XP apps as long as the Text
Services and Speech applets in the Control Panel are enabled. Not required if you don't need these
features.

~
D
~
Data Invalid Error Message
This error appears to be due to a protection problem in the Windows registry and can occur with a
variety of drivers (sound cards and SCSI drivers have been reported). To fix this problem, go to
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\ENUM\PCI
Open each folder and look for the "DeviceDesc" which matches the hardware you are trying to
install.
Right Click on the "VEN_xxxx" for that device and select 'Permissions' and then tick "Allow" for
"Full Control". Close Regedit and then continue with the installation of your device.
Data Recovery
Data Recovery Software & File Undelete Tool for FAT and NTFS file systems.
Unformat, Unerase & Data Recovery Utility for Windows 95/98/Me/NT/2000/XP

Free Download Version: Restorer2000
Have you ever accidentally deleted important files from your hard drive, or for any reason your
hard drive became corrupted or you mistakenly formatted your drive loosing all your important
data / files and folders?
Let, Restorer2000 Data Recovery Software comes to your rescue. It's one of the most powerful
undelete and data recovery software available in the market, and can recover your accidentally
lost files. Restorer2000 Professional 2.0 data recovery software can even recover data from
formatted or corrupted hard drives and partitions.
As long as your system's hardware is functional, award winning Restorer2000 product may be the
only solution you need for all your data recovery and undelete needs. With Restorer2000 you can
quickly and easily restore your data saving your time, money and resources. More info here.
Other Tools to consider:
File Saver Pro - Recover Deleted Files
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_u.htm#xp_util
HDD Recovery: Onsite Data Recovery Service
This site provides you with the data recovery software tools and data recovery specialist people
necessary to perform a safe hard drive data recovery on your computer and or network.
HDDRecovery also provides a data recovery service as well.
Data Recovery Tools - Freeware
Data Recovery and Undelete Tools
Disk Investigator helps you to discover all that is hidden on your computer hard disk. It can also
help you to recover lost data. Display the true drive contents by bypassing the operating system
and directly reading the raw drive sectors. View and search raw directories, files, clusters, and
system sectors. Verify the effectiveness of file and disk wiping programs. Undelete previously
deleted files.
Ai Networks specializes in the recovery of lost computer based information. From rebuilding and
recovering data from crashed or faulty hard drives including file system, mechanical and
electronic problems. Accidental format, erasure, deletion and repartitioning.
Runtime Software - Recover your data after formatting the drive, after fdisk, power failure, virus
attack, software failure, or after accidentally deleting files. Our powerful data recovery tools are
easy to use, while giving you full control over your data recovery.
Dbx Folders
Error Message If the Folders.dbx File Is Missing or Damaged:
MSIMN caused an invalid page fault in module Msoe.dll
MSIMN caused an invalid page fault in module Directdb.dll
MSIMN caused an Invalid Page Fault in module Unknown

Msimn caused an exception C0000006h in module Directdb.dll
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q233/2/64.asp
Outlook Express Issues and Workarounds
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_oe.htm
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_o.htm
Ddhelper32.Exe
The Backdoor/SubSeven 2.2 Server Virus May Cause an Error Message
Debugging
Microsoft Debugging Tools
Defragmentation - Disk
Start/Programs/Accessories/System Tools/Disk Defragmenter
Defrag - Run as a Scheduled Task:
A small VB Script can be used to run DEFRAG as a Scheduled Task. This script will scan your
system and identify all hard disks, then will execute the DEFRAG program for each one. Create a
new Scheduled Task and point it to this VBS file. The task must run with Administrator
credentials. The script can be downloaded here.
To only defragment one drive as a Scheduled Task, go to Start/Programs/Accessories/System
Tools/Scheduled Tasks/Add Scheduled Task.
Enter DEFRAG.EXE X: -F where X is the drive you wish to defragment.
The only way a non-administrator can defragment a local volume is to run the Dfrg.msc console
in the context of a user who has administrator privileges. You can accomplish this by running the
following command:
Right click and select runas /user:[email protected] "mmc dfrg.msc". The
user is prompted for the administrator password. This command may be useful for an
administrator who wants to run a defragmentation on a user's computer without forcing the user to
log off.
Defrag on Boot - Enable/Disable
A great new feature in Microsoft Windows XP is the ability to do a boot defragment. This places
all boot files next to each other on the disk to allow for faster booting. By default this option is
enabled but on some builds it is not so below is how to turn it on.
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Dfrg\BootOptimizeFunction
Select Enable from the list on the right. Right on it and select Modify. Change the value to Y to
enable and N to disable.
Reboot your computer.

Also see HKEY LOCAL
MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\SessionManager\Memory
Management\PrefetchParameters and EnablePrefetcher = 1 application launch prefetching, 2 boot
prefetching
add the numbers.
Also
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Dfrg\ "Enable"="Y" (Y = defrag will
optimize for boot and app launch)
Add Defrag to the Context Menu (Right Click)
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/scripts_desc/context_defrag.htm
Automating Disk Cleanup Tool in Windows
More information: Disk Defrag and Check Disk Issues for Windows XP
Delete - Can't Delete Files or Folders
Checkpoints/workarounds: Test the Delete after each suggestion.
Submitted by: Una: 9/2005
1) Log into Windows as another user.
2) Open Windows Explorer and navigate to: \Documents and Settings\UserName <--user name
with the bad files.
3) Go to Tools | Folder Options and click the View tab. Make sure all settings that hide files are
turned off. You want to make sure all
files are visible before the next step.
4) Move all the files in the Desktop folder to another location (well all except the problem files...if
those could be moved you wouldn't be
in this predicament!).
5) Open a command prompt and navigate to the above location.
6) Enter this command which deletes the Desktop folder and its contents: "RD /S Desktop".
7) Create a new Desktop folder.
8) Move everything back.
9) Log off, then log in again as the original user.
~~~~
Submitted by Terry Dixon: 9/2005
Use winfile.exe to browse to the file/folder and delete.
See line 71 (right hand side): http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

~~~
1. Go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: RD /S [drive:] path
2. Open Notepad and save the (blank) file with the name of the undeletable file. Under save as,
navigate to the file, delete.
3. Move the file into a new directory and then delete the directory.
4. Close all open apps. Open a command prompt (Start/Run/CMD) and navigate to the directory
with the offending file(s). Then open the Task Manager and click on the Processes tab, select
"explorer.exe" under Image Name. Click "End Process".
In the opened Command Prompt, DEL the offending files (DEL *.mpg, DEL mus*.avi, DEL
test.wmv, etc.) Once done, go back to the task manager and click on the Applications tab. Click
the "New Task..." button. in the dialog, type explorer.exe and click OK.
Note: Could also opt for: ATTRIB -H -R -S filename before the DEL.
5. Or you can use Process Explorer: http://www.sysinternals.com/ntw2k/freeware/procexp.shtml.
Use the search function to find every handle that Explorer.Exe has open and close them (rightclick on the file and choose 'close handle'). Then delete the file(s) in question.
NTFS: "Access Denied" Error Message When You Try to Delete a File
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;298345
Delete - AVI, MPG... files (access denied error)
Close all open apps. Open a command prompt and navigate to the directory with the offending
files. Then open the Task Manager and click on the Processes tab. select "Explorer.Exe" under
Image Name. Click "End Process".
Now you will only have the command prompt and the task manager. In the Command Prompt,
DEL the offending files (DEL *.mpg, DEL mus*.avi, DEL test.wmv, etc.)
The files should now delete without a problem. Now go back to the task manager and click on the
Applications tab. Click the "New Task..." button. in the dialog, type Explorer.Exe and click OK.
Process Explorer shows you information about which handles and DLLs processes have opened
or loaded. Use the search function to find every handle that Explorer.Exe has open and close
them (right-click on the file and choose 'close handle'). Then delete the file(s) in question.
Delete - Permission Denied When Trying to Delete Folders/Files
Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/View/Unmark "Use Simple File Sharing". Right click
the folder/file in question/Properties/Security/Advanced/Owner/Set Permissions.
HOW TO: Take Ownership of a File or Folder in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q308421
HOW TO: Set, View, Change, or Remove File and Folder Permissions
HOW TO: Disable Simplified Sharing and Password-Protect a Shared Folder in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;q307874&

More information here:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/win_xp_mydocs.htm
Tip: "Cannot Delete [name of file]: Cannot Find the Specified Path. Make sure you specify the
correct path."
Right click the Recycle Bin/Properties/Check: Do Not Move Files to the Recycle Bin...
Tip: Recover and Restore Deleted Files (Line 36)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Delete - Recycle Bin
Error Deleting File or Folder Cannot delete (filename): Cannot find the specified path. Make sure
you specify the correct path and file name.
To correct: Right click the Recycle Bin/Properties/Check: Do Not Move Files to the Recycle
Bin...
Troubleshooting the Recycle Bin
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_qr.htm#rb
Recover and Restore Deleted Files (Line 36)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Desktop Cleanup Wizard - Run/Disable
To remove unused desktop icons - Open Display in Control Panel. On the Desktop tab, click
Customize Desktop. Under Desktop cleanup, click Clean Desktop Now. Follow the directions in
the Desktop Cleanup Wizard.
Note: To open Display, click Start, click Control Panel, and then double-click Display.
The Desktop Cleanup Wizard displays a list of the desktop icons that have not been used for 60
days or more, enabling you to remove those icons that you don't want on your desktop.
You can retrieve icons you have removed by opening the Unused Desktop Shortcuts folder on
your desktop.
Clear the Run Desktop Cleanup Wizard every 60 days check box if you don't want the wizard to
run automatically every two months.
You can remove an individual desktop icon by right-clicking the icon and then clicking Delete. To
add or remove the icons for My Documents, My Computer, My Network Places, or Internet
Explorer, select or clear those items under Desktop icons.
Disable: Right click the desktop and select Properties. Go to the Desktop tab and click
Customize. Uncheck the Run Desktop Cleanup Wizard every 60 days item.
Desktop Cleanup Wizard - Disable
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Explorer\Desktop\CleanupWiz. Value Name: NoRun, Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD

Value), Value Data: (0 = enabled, 1= disable wizard).
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'NoRun' and edit the value
according to the settings above. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows
for the change to take effect.
Desktop Icons - Lock
LOCK DESKTOP ICONS
"In Windows 95/98/NT/2000/ME/XP you can lock down the position of the Desktop icons using a
couple of files from the MS Windows NT 4.0 Resource Kit.
Download Layout.dll here. ftp://ftp.zdnet.com/wsources/0598/layout.zip. Place it here:
C:\Winnt\System32 then double click the Layout.reg file. You will now have a new right click
option.
Desktop Icons - Missing
Right click on the desktop, choose properties and click on "Customize Desktop". Internet
Explorer, Recycle Bin, My Documents and/or My Network Places can be added or removed here.
Desktop Icons (System) - Rename
Rename Your Desktop (System) Icons
Desktop.ini
Desktop.ini is used to tell Windows how to display a folder. For example, enabling Thumbnail
view creates a desktop.ini file in that folder which amongst other things, tells Windows to add an
extra item to the View menu for that folder. Desktop.ini files are also used when you customize
folders, change their icons etc.
The Desktop.ini File Does Not Work Correctly When You Create a Custom Default Profile
Problems After You Create a Folder That Is Named "Desktop" on the Desktop in Windows XP
Desktop Process - Windows Explorer Opens on every Boot
Create Separate Processes for the Desktop and Explorer
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer
Value Name: DesktopProcess
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (1 = Separate Process, 0 = Default)
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'DesktopProcess' and edit the
value according to the settings above. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of
Windows for the change to take effect.
Desktop/Remote Assistance/Remote Networking http://www.longhornconsulting.com/xpwiki
Desktop Settings and Themes

HOW TO: Configure Desktop Themes in Windows XP
How to Change the Font, Size, and Colors of Desktop Items
Desktop Tab Missing
If you set the "Use Classic Shell" in GP, it hides that desktop tab. The exact path for that flag is:
GP: User Configuration/ Administrative Templates/Windows Components/Windows
Explorer/Turn off Classic Shell.
Detail View - Add Fields to the Details View of Folders
You can add other columns to the Details view of the files contained in Windows XP folders, such
as Comments, Description, Category, and many others. To add new columns:
Right–click the column header of the files list, and then click one of the fields listed, or click
More. In the Choose Details dialog box, you can reorganize the order of column headers, specify
column widths, and add columns to display details for the files in that folder. When you click the
new column header, the width of the selected column is displayed in pixels in the Choose Details
dialog box.
Detail View - Can't see the Details View in Windows Explorer
If this happens to you, try clicking once in the Explorer window (the right-hand pane) to set the
focus there, then hold the Control key while you press the + key on the number pad. This will
reset the column width to the default. Sometimes the columns get reset to a width of 0, making
them rather difficult to see!
Detail View - For Folders
Windows Explorer/View/[Select Accordingly]. Then Tools/Folder Options/View/Apply to All
Folders.
Detail View (or any view) Not Sticking: Go to Start/Run/Regedit
Delete these two keys, reboot then re-set your folder options.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\ShellNoRoam\BagMRU
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\ShellNoRoam\Bags
If you prefer not to deal with the registry, you can use the edit from here called: Restore Folder
Views
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Note: Normally when Windows exits it saves the desktop configuration, including icon location,
appearance etc. This setting
disables these changes from being saved. Start/Run/Regedit
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value called 'NoSaveSettings' set the value to
equal '1' to enable the restriction. Exit your registry, you may need to restart for the changes to
take effect.
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer

Value Name: NoSaveSettings
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = disabled, 1 = enabled)
Device Drivers
The best place to start is the Microsoft Windows Update Web site:
http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com. Click Scan for updates in the left column, and then click
Driver Updates.
ATI Technologies, Inc.
Belkin Components
Cirrus Logic Inc.

http://www.ati.com
http://www.belkin.com
http://www.cirrus.com

Compaq Computer Corporation

http://www5.compaq.com

Dell Computer Corporation

http://www.dell.com/us/en/gen/default.htm

Digi International

http://www.digi.com

Fujitsu

http://www.fujitsu.com

Hewlett-Packard

http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/eng/welcome.htm

Intel Corporation

http://www.intel.com

Mitsubishi

http://www.mitsubishi.com/index_e.html

NEC Corporation

http://www.nec.com/index.html

Sony Corporation

http://www.sony.com

Tally Computer Printers
Texas Instruments
3COM Corporation
Toshiba
U.S. Robotics

http://www.tally.com
http://www.ti.com
http://www.3com.com
http://www.toshiba.com
http://www.usr.com

XP Support By Device & Manufacturer & Drivers
Information About Hardware Device Drivers for Windows XP
Device Lock
DeviceLock gives network administrators control over which users can access what devices
(floppies, serial and parallel ports, Magneto-Optical disks, CD-ROMs, ZIPs, etc.) on a local
computer. Once DeviceLock is installed, administrators can control access to floppies, CD-ROMs
or any other device, depending on the time of day and day of the week. DeviceLock enhances
access control for Windows System Administrators and helps control removable disk usage.
Information here.

Device Manager
Troubleshooting Device Conflicts in the Device Manager
Driver Verifier to Troubleshoot Device Drivers in Win XP
HOW TO: Manage Devices in Windows XP
How to Verify Unsigned Device Drivers in Windows XP
General Description of IRQ Sharing in Windows XP
Configure Device Manager to Display Detailed Information
Device Manager Conflicts and Error Codes
Unable to Change Resource Settings in Windows XP Device Manager
Device Manager Does Not Display Devices That Are Not Connected to the Windows XP-Based
Computer
Device Manager - Print A Device Manager Summary
HOW TO: Print a Device Manager Report in Windows XP (Q308579)
Device Manager - Print Contents to a Text File
How to Print Device Manager Contents to a Text File (Q127156)
Device Manager - #2 Shows next to a device:
Go to Device Manager. Choose View and select Show Hidden Devices. Go to the Device group
and uninstall both entries. Now choose Action and Scan for Hardware Changes.
Run devmgmt.msc or if it is truly gone, create another one by running "mmc /a", adding the
device manager plug-in and saving that to devmgmt.msc in %windir%\system32.
Device Manager - Troubleshooting
Unknown Devices, Error Codes and Conflicts
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/win_xp_dm.htm
Device Manager - Shortcut
You can open Device Manager by double-clicking on the System icon in Control Panel, choosing
the Hardware tab, and clicking Device Manager.
Fortunately, Device Manager can be more easily run by launching devmgmt.msc - just create a
shortcut to the file (as described above), and launch it at any time.
Devices - Show Hidden
Show All Hidden Devices in Device Manager. Devices that are installed but are not currently
connected to the
computer (such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device or "ghosted" devices) are not normally

displayed in Device Manager. This tweak causes all devices to be shown. Go to
Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to:
Create a new String value, or modify the existing value, called
'DEVMGR_SHOW_NONPRESENT_DEVICES' and edit the value according to the settings
below.
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session
Manager\Environment]
Value Name: DEVMGR_SHOW_NONPRESENT_DEVICES
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value)
Value Data: (1 = show all hidden devices)
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
DEVLDR - Not Responding
To resolve this issue, remove or turn off the Creative Labs SoundBlaster Live Driver and reinstall
the driver from the Windows XP CD-ROM. To do this, follow these steps:
· Click Start , and then click Control Panel.
· In Control Panel, double-click System.
· In the System Properties dialog box, click the Hardware tab, and then click Device Manager.
· Expand Sound, video and game controllers.
· Right-click Creative Labs SoundBlaster, and then click Delete.
· When you are prompted to confirm the deletion, click Yes.
· Reinstall the sound card driver from your Windows XP CD-ROM.
Error Message When You Shut Down Computer: DEVLDR Not Responding
Dialup - Auto
Modify the Internet Auto-Dial Settings
Windows has the option to automatically dial your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to establish an
Internet connection. This option can be controlled using this tweak.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet Settings
Set the value to equal "0x00000001 (1) " to enable autodial or "0x00000001 (0) " to disable it.
Note: This restriction can be used either on a user by user basis by adding it to
HKEY_CURRENT_USER or on a computer wide basis by adding it to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE.
More Information on Auto-Dial and Auto-Disconnect
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_modem.htm
Ding Wav

Restore the Ding Wav file. Download the fix here. To use the Regedit: Save the REG File to your
hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the import prompt. REG files can be viewed in
Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting Edit.
To manually make the changes to the registry: Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\AppEvents\Schemes\Apps\.Default\.Default\.Default
In the right pane double click (Default) and paste this line in: %SystemRoot%\media\Windows
XP Ding.wav
Then go to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\AppEvents\Schemes\Apps\.Default\.Default\.Current
In the right pane double click (Default) and paste this line in: %SystemRoot%\media\Windows
XP Ding.wav
Note: (Default) is an REG_EXPAND_SZ (New/Expandable String Value). If neither .Default
or .Current is listed in the left pane, create each by highlighting the second .Default then going to
File/Edit/New/Key.
Direct Cable Connection
DCC Protocols - Connecting two computers together via cables is no easy task. If you have
attempted to do this using the Windows Direct Cable Connection (DCC) wizard and are still
experiencing problems, then it could be because of a missing protocol. Right-click on the Network
places icon and select the Configuration tab. Add the protocol IPX/SPX. After adding, select it
within the Configuration tab and click the Properties button. Now, bind IPX/SPX to the Dial-Up
adapter on BOTH the host and guest computer. Information on Setting Up DCC Between 9x and
WinXP
DirectX
Troubleshooting Direct X 8.0 (FAQ's) MS-KB Article
Troubleshooting With Articles About DirectX
Troubleshooting MS Games & FAQ's
Troubleshooting Games and Multimedia in Windows XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_resources.htm

DirectX 9c (4.09.000.0904) issues after/with SP2:
VIDEO-DIRECTX-SYSTEM CHECKLIST
http://www3.sympatico.ca/nibblesnbits/Video.html#drivers
Suggestions:
Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\CatRoot. And rename the folder to CatRoot2old.
More detailed info by MVP Jimmy S.:
To download and install a DRIVER for your video card.
XP users should create a restore point before any upgrades:

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/using/howto/gethelp/systemrestore.asp
If your video card meets the game requirements, but
Dxdiag.exe is still reporting N/A, you must reinstall
DirectX and update your video card drivers. If the issue
continues after you reinstall DirectX and you update your
video card drivers, this may be a Microsoft Windows
problem. Contact Windows technical support to continue
troubleshooting this issue.
Updating video card drivers can solve most gaming issues. Here's some
simple abc's to always keep in mind.
a. Shut off download accelerators, firewalls and antivirus programs when
downloading or installing updates;
b. Check for game patches: www.avault.com/pcrl/patches_list.asp?letter=a
c. Make sure you meet the game's minimum video and system requirements.
Along with your Video card, Sound Cards, Motherboard Chipsets,
and Video Monitors may also require updated drivers. Even your
motherboard's BIOS may need to be updated for compatibility with
your Video card.
Before you update your drivers, I recommend that you install DirectX 9.0b:
http://download.microsoft.com/download/c/9/c/c9c8a1d4-7690-4c98-baf30c67e7f3751f/dx90update_redist.exe
Here are the steps I recommend you use to update your driver:
1. To identify the make and model of your card, right click your
Desktop, choose Properties / Settings / Advanced / Adapter.
2. Download the latest video driver for your card online, using
http://www3.sympatico.ca/nibblesnbits/Video.html#drivers
to find the website to download from. I also have advanced
video driver and direct X troubleshooting steps on that page.
3. Save the .exe driver (or extract the zip file) to a folder
in My Documents named after the driver version number.
4. Restart the computer in Safe Mode by pressing the F8 key
about once every second as it's rebooting to pick Safe Mode.
5. Click Start / (settings) Control Panel / System / Hardware
Device Manager / expand +Display Adapters / right click on
the adapter, pick "Uninstall", and click No if asked to reboot.
6. Use Control Panel / Add-Remove programs to uninstall the
previous driver (exe) software which may have been installed.
7. Restart the computer in Safe Mode by pressing the F8 key
about once every second as it's rebooting to pick Safe Mode.

8. If the driver is NOT a (.exe) program file, GO TO step 11.
9. When Windows prompts you to install the video adapter, click
"Cancel" and Double click the driver program to begin installation.
*Even if not prompted, double click the driver and install it.
10. After you reboot, go to Control Panel / Display / Settings and
choose 32 bit Color Quality, and 800x600 or higher Resolution.
That's it! Scroll down to the Troubleshooter if you have problems.
11. When Windows prompts you to install the video adapter, click
"Install from a list or specific location", click the "Browse" button,
browse to the My documents folder where you saved the driver,
and finally click on one of the driver files to begin installation.
** If you are not prompted, or if the driver was updated automatically:
Click Start / (settings) Control Panel / System / Hardware Device Manager
expand +Display Adapters / right click on the adapter, pick "Update
Driver".
To start the Update Wizard, choose the "Install from a list..." option:
Browse to My Documents\ folder with the driver in it
Click OK and click Next to begin the update.
12. After you reboot, go to Control Panel / Display / Settings and
choose 32 bit Color Quality, and 800x600 or higher Resolution.
That's it! Try the advice in the Troubleshooter if you have problems.
TROUBLESHOOTING:
Test your drivers using DXDiag: Click Start / Run / type: DXDIAG
Click the "Test" buttons in the Display, Sound, Music & Network Tabs.
If any of the Display options are Disabled and you cannot Enable them,
your most likely solution would be to update your Chipset Drivers as per
my website: http://www3.sympatico.ca/nibblesnbits/Video.html#v11
Your program might not support dual monitors, or "dual head" video cards
You can disable the extra video output in your display properties control
panel. Click Start>Settings>Control Panel>Display>Settings>Advanced.
Perhaps the old Video drivers did not completely uninstall. If that's the
case, use these utility to completely uninstall the drivers and go to step 7:
Nvidia: http://content.guru3d.com/index.php?page=detonatorrip&menu=0
or for all cards including nvidia use: http://www.driverheaven.net/cleaner/
The latest video drivers sometime don't work with a particular game.
(Check the Video suggestions in the readme.txt file in your game folder/CD).
If there's no suggestions, try an older (WHQL) driver, and/or if you still

experience problems try a Beta driver, or even an Omega driver instead:
BETA Drivers: http://download.guru3d.com/
OMEGA Drivers: http://www.omegacorner.com/
DirectX Support Center and Newsgroups:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh%3Ben-us%3Bdrx&x=9&y=15
And/or:
Visit news://msnews.microsoft.com/microsoft.public.directx.misc and post your question to the
experts there. Include your dxdiag.txt and your directx.log.
Added info:
For a better way to access these newsgroups look here:
http://michaelstevenstech.com/outlookexpressnewreader.htm
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/using/newsgroups/setup.asp
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;[ln];newswhelp
Directory Listing of the Windows XP CD (K. Miller)
Open a Command Prompt Window (Start/Run/CMD). Change the directory to the CD Rom Drive
then enter this command: tree/f To save it type: tree/f > c:\tree.txt. It can then be found on your
C Drive. To save it to Notepad use this command: tree f/ a/
Disk Cleanup
TreeSize V1.62
Every hard disk is too small if you just wait long enough. TreeSize tells you where precious space
has gone to. TreeSize can be started from the context menu of a folder or drive and shows you the
size of this folder, including its subfolders. You can expand this folder in Explorer-like style and
you will see the size of every subfolder. Scanning is done in a thread, so you can already see
results while TreeSize is working. The space, which is wasted by the file system can be displayed
and the results can be printed in a report. TreeSize is Mailware for Windows 9x/NT/2000/XP.
Screen Shot. Download.
Disk Cleanup Tool
How to Automate the Disk Cleanup Tool in Windows XP
Disk Defrag
Disk Defrag and Check Disk Issues for Windows XP
Disk Duplication
The Microsoft Policy Concerning Disk Duplication of Windows XP Installations
Disk Error Checking

How to Perform Disk Error Checking in Windows XP
Display
Windows XP KB Articles About Configuring the Display
Display Driver Issues
How to Check the Video Driver
How to Determine Which Video Driver Is Loading in Windows XP
How to Force Windows to Use Standard VGA Compatible Driver
STOP: C0000143 MISSING DISPLAY_DRIVER.DLL
HOW TO: Use Driver Roll Back to Restore a Previous Driver
Using Driver Verifier to Troubleshoot Drivers in Win 2K and XP
Display Settings
Display Resolution and Color Depth Settings Apply to All Users
Lock Refresh Rates under Windows XP
Cannot Change Display Setting to 640 X 480 or 256 Color
Start/Control Panel/Display/Settings/Advanced/Adapter/List all modes.
Follow these steps if you want to switch the display temporarily while the game or
program is running:
On your desktop or on the Start menu, right-click the game or other program that you want to run
in 256 colors, and then click Properties. Click the Compatibility tab. Select the Run in 256 colors
check box.
Run in 640x480 screen resolution check box. Your screen resolution will revert to its previous
resolution when you close the program. The Compatibility tab is available only for programs or
games located on your computer's hard disk. It is not available if the program is stored on a floppy
disk, compact disk, or a network.
Switch Display: Start/Programs/Game in Question/Properties/Compatibility Tab/Select 256 or
640x480.
Lock Refresh Rates under Windows XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Display Resolution - Change
1. Start/Run/Regedit and Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_CONFIG\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\VIDEO\{3A2C2EBEECDB-4A7B-99EC58117AFDC5E2}\0000\Mon22446688
2. Find 'DefaultSettings.XResolution'. That is your y axis. Edit as a Decimal to what you want it
to be. IE 1152.
3. Find 'DefaultSettings.YResolution'. That is your x axis. Edit as a decimal to what you want it to

be. IE 863.
4. Reboot.
Or...
Start/Run/Regedit: HKEY_CURRENT_CONFIG\Display\Settings. In the right pane, right click
Resolution, modify, 800,600.
DLL Database
Your DLL Quest Ends Here: http://www.dll-download.net/
DLL Help database
DLL File Downloads
If your Windows applications and programs are missing the correct dynamic link library files
( otherwise known as DLL files or .dll ) you've probably been faced with either a reinstallation of
your software or a non working application. This DLL download page contains links to the most
commonly needed DLL files, most are in zip file format. Using WinZip or similar, most users will
simply have to unzip the DLL file they are missing into their default C:/Windows/System
directory to restore program functions. Downloads can be obtained from here:
http://www.5starsupport.com/info/dll.htm
DLL Informant
Shows all DLL's and all applications that use them. Download here.
DLL's - Make DLLs Display Their Icons in Windows Explorer
By default Windows Explorer displays a generic icon for all DLL files even if some of them
contain icons. If you sometimes look inside those DLL files at their icons you know that many
DLLs have no icons, and some do. If you'd like to know at a glance which ones have icons then a
quick Registry edit is just what you need. This tweak will change the default so that the first icon
contained in a DLL is displayed in Windows Explorer.
Start/Run/Regedit: HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\dllfile\DefaultIcon. First back up the key you are
about to modify:
Highlight (Default) in the right frame and select Export Registry File... from the Registry pull
down menu. Export or save the file to the location of your choice.
If you don't like the results of this tweak, simply double click the exported file to undo the
changes you are about to make.
Right click (Default) and choose Modify.
Replace all the information contained in the Value data: field with %1. Exit Regedit, reboot and
launch Windows Explorer. Find a file called Shell.DLL in C:\Windows\System and note that it,
and many other DLLs now display an icon.
DLL's - Unload
Start/Run/Regedit

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer
Create a new sub-key named 'AlwaysUnloadDLL' and set the default value to equal '1' to disable
Windows caching the DLL in memory. Restart Windows for the change to take effect.
DMA
1. Double-click Administrative Tools, and then click Computer Management.
2. Click System Tools, and then click Device Manager.
3. Click to expand IDE ATA/ATAPI Controllers.
4. Click the specific controller for which you want to configure DMA/PIO settings.
5. Click the Advanced Settings tab.
6. In the Transfer Mode box, click either PIO Only or DMA if available.
DMI Pool Data
When the computer is running the power-on self test (POST), it may stop responding (hang), and
a "Verifying DMI pool data" error message may be displayed. This issue is caused by the
hardware. To resolve this issue, contact your computer manufacturer.
Documents and Settings
Cannot Move or Rename the Documents and Settings Folder
My Documents Folder in Windows XP
How to Move Shell Folders and Contents
Domain
Computer Does Not Join the Domain If Encrypted Domain Administrator Password Is in the
Identification Section of an Unattended Answer-File
DOS
Troubleshooting MS-DOS-Based Programs in Windows XP
DOS - Sound (Reference: computers.DouglasThrift.net |Windows XP FAQ)
How do I get sound and music in old DOS games?
Downloads - Change default Internet Explorer Download Directory
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer Change the path you want to
assign as IE's Default Download directory here: Download Directory.
Downloads - Configure Settings
How to Configure Internet Explorer to Have More Than Two Download Sessions
Downloads - Resume

GetRight is a Download Manager program to help you download files from the Internet. It allows
you to easily download files and recover (resume downloading) if errors occur--and has many
other advanced features. Download here.
Fresh Download is an easy-to-use and very fast download manager software that turbo charges
downloading files from the Internet, such as your favorite software, mp3 files, video files, picture
collections, etc. Unlike any other similar utilities, this software is 100% free, no charges, no
banners in the software, no spyware. Download here.
Drive is not Accessible Error Message
"Incorrect Function" Error Message When You Access the CD-ROM Drive, DVD-ROM Drive, or
CD-RW Drive
Drive Letters - Change
Control Panel/Administrative Tools/Computer Management/Disk Management. Then right-click
the partition whose name you want to change (click in the white area just below the word
"Volume") and select "change drive letter and paths." From here you can add, remove or change
drive letters and paths to the partition.
HOW TO: Change Drive Letter Assignments in Windows XP
How to Change the System/Boot Drive Letter in Windows
Drive Letter for New Storage Device Is Not Shown
All Available Drive Letters Are Assigned to Unformatted Hard Disks
Driver Agent - Scan Now!
3 good reasons to update the device drivers on your PC with TouchStone's NEW Driver Agent.
1. Better PC Performance: By keeping your PC hardware device drivers updated your system will
run at peak performance.
2. Improved PC Stability: Stop those annoying crashes and slow downs by updating the device
drivers on your computer.
3. Driver Updating is Fast and Easy: Locating the correct and newest drivers is simple and safe
with Driver Agent. Our leading edge Internet technology and certified database will quickly
deliver the correct and most current device driver for your PC.
DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL
"STOP:0xD1" Error Message When You Start Your Windows XP-Based Computer
Drivers - Unsigned Warning Message
Start/Run and type: gpedit.msc. User Configuration/Administrative Templates/System. Right click
Code signing for Device Drivers/Properties/Settings/Ignore from the appearing list box or disable.
Un-Signed Driver Installation Warnings

Start/Run and type: secpol.msc. Local Policies/Security Options. Change Devices: Unsigned
driver installation behavior to Silently succeed. Reboot.
Dual Boot
Windows XP Does Not Start on a Computer That Is Configured for Dual Booting
Dual Boot - Explained
Triple Boot Win9x/Win2K/Win XP
Dual Booting Redhat 7.2 and Windows XP
Dual-Boot - Remove
How to Edit the BOOT.INI File in Windows XP
Dual Booting
Multibooting with Windows XP: Introduction
Multibooting: Windows XP and Windows 2000 Professional
Multibooting: Windows XP and Windows NT Workstation
Multibooting: Windows XP and Windows Me or Windows 9x
How to Multiple Boot Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 95, Windows 98,
and MS-DOS
HOW TO: Create a Multiple-Boot System in Windows XP
How to Enable Dual Boot After You Install Windows Me on a Windows 2000-based Computer
How to Install Windows 98 after Installing Windows XP
How to Install W2K to its Own Partition after Installing Windows XP
Multibooting with Windows XP
Multibooting with Windows 2000 and Windows XP
Dumpchk.Exe
How to Use Dumpchk.exe to Check a Memory Dump File
Dumprep - Explained (Microsoft)
It has various mode of functionality. ER Utility Application - This will be referred to as
dumprep.exe from here forward.
This application houses a few simple functions to be used when a separate application is needed to
perform certain tasks (such as snapping a minidump of a process, etc).
Queued reporting:
This goal of this mode is similar to that of regular manifest exception reporting: prevent nonprivileged users from accessing data they should not be accessing. In regular manifest mode, we
have the possibility that a non-privileged user could see a minidump from a service process if he
was logged onto the local console when the service faulted.

Even if he does not look at the minidump, he is potentially given the option of reporting the fault
to Microsoft- which may not be what a machine admin would want to do.
To work around this, we introduce the concept of queue. Queue works very similarly to kernel
fault reporting.
1. We enter queue at the point which we left manifest exception reporting above. Note that we
never return to manifest exception reporting mode. When we finish, we go directly back to the
point where we left 'user mode exception' reporting.
2. The ERSvc invokes faultrep.dll to do the actual reporting. Faultrep.dll is loaded into the ERSvc
process.
3. A user fault signature is extracted from the minidump.
4. The fault is stored in the user fault queue directory. If the directory is located on an NTFS drive,
we attempt to use NTFS
compression to compress the file.
5. The fault signature as well as some other metadata about the fault is packaged into a structure
and stored in the registry along with the pointer to the file in the queue directory. We also
dumprep.exe to the HKLM 'Run' key, which causes dumprep.exe to get executed every time a user
logs in (until it is removed from the 'Run' key).
6. We check and see if the fault reporting queue is above the maximum number of entries (10 by
default) and delete the oldest entry from the queue.
7. Wait for an administrator to log in interactively (either at the local console or via terminal
server / remote desktop). Note that we really return back to the faulting app here and do not
actually cause the faulting app to 'wait'. However, the fault reporting process for this fault
effectively waits.
8. When an administrator logs in, dumprep.exe runs and checks the list of user faults. If it is
empty, dumprep.exe (and ER) terminates.
9. We attempt to acquire a global mutex that only administrators have access to (this is how we
enforce administrator access to reporting). If we fail, dumprep.exe (and ER) terminates.
10. We read an entry from the registry list. That the following steps occur once for each entry in
the list.
11. Faultrep.dll is loaded and called with the path to the minidump to report & the user fault
metadata we stored away in the registry.
12. Faultrep.dll is loaded and the registry based configuration is checked.
a. If both reporting and notification are disabled, ER terminates.
b. If reporting is enabled and notification is not, we report in silent mode
c. If notification is enabled and reporting is not, we display a pop up notifying the user of the
fault, but there is no 'Send / Don't Send' button set. There is just an 'Ok' button.

d. If both are enabled, we report normally.
13. We collect application compatibility data if possible and store it in a file in the temp directory.
14. The DW manifest is constructed.
15. DW is launched. The behavior is described in the 'DW Process' section above.
16. Once DW returns, ER terminates (or repeats if we have been called by dumprep.exe and there
are additional faults to report- note, if the DW dialog remained up for more than 5 minutes
without user interaction, then no further reports will be offered to the user. The next admin who
logs in will be offered the opportunity to report).
DUN (Dial Up Networking) Settings - Save
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\ RemoteAccess\ Profile
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\ RemoteAccess\ Addresses
Select Export Registry File from the File menu, and save this branch in another file on your hard
disk - this file will contain entries for all of connections, so if you have more than one connection
here, you must edit the second Registry file manually with a text editor and remove the unwanted
entries.
At this point, you can merge the two registry files (using a text editor, such as Notepad, and
making sure the word "REGEDIT4" appears only once).
When you're finished, you should have a single Registry file (*.REG), on which a user can simply
double-click to add the connection to their system.
Setting up Dial-Up Networking
DVD
Windows XP and DVD
DVD Troubleshooter
You cannot view the files on a DVD or CD in Windows Explorer:
Close Windows Explorer. Go to Start/Control Panel/Double click System/Hardware/Device
Manager. Expand DVD/CD-ROM. Click the appropriate device, and then click Uninstall on the
Action menu.
When you are prompted to confirm that you want to remove the device, click OK. On the Action
menu, click Scan for hardware changes. Quit Device Manager and Control Panel.
You Cannot View the Files on a Disc After You Replace a CD-R or CD-RW Drive with a DVD or
CD-ROM Drive
DVD - Enable DVD Player in Media Player

This setting allows you to use Microsoft Media Player to Play and Open DVDs. Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\Player\Settings. Value Name:
EnableDVDUI, Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value), Value Data: yes or no. Create a new string
value called "EnableDVDUI" and set it to "yes" to enable DVD functionality.
Troubleshooting DVD Playback in Windows Media Player for Windows XP
DVD - Missing in the Device Manager
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class\{4D36E965-E32511CE-BFC1-08002BE10318}. Remove the Upperfilters and Lowerfilters values completely from
the above registry key.

~E~
E-Mail - Intelligent Email
Stop Spam, Keep your e-mail safe and private. Mailshell.
E-Mail - Mail Washer
MailWasher is a powerful email checker with effective spam elimination. Discover the safe way
to stop unwanted viruses and e-mails before they get to your computer.
E-Mail - SmartSerialMail V1.1
SmartSerialMail allows to send e-mails automatically to a large number of recipients. E-mails can
be sent using MAPI or SMTP and up to 64 threads may be used, which allows an optimal usage of
your internet connection. Each mail is send individually to its recipient, so that only his name
appears in the To: section of the mail header. Screen Shot. Download.
E-Mail Symbols
Symbol - Meaning
:-) I’m smiling.
:-( I’m frowning.
:-< I’m real sad.
:-c I’m bummed out.
:-C I’m really bummed out!
:-I I’m grim.
:-/ I’m skeptical.
:-7 I’m smirking at my own wry comment.
:-> I have a devilish grin.
:-D I’m laughing.
:-o I’m shouting.
:-O I’m shouting really loud.

:-@ I’m screaming.
:-8 I talk from both sides of my mouth.
:-p I’m sticking my tongue out at you.
:-P I’m being tongue-in-cheek.
:-& I’m tongue-tied.
:-9 I’m licking my lips.
:-* My lips pucker for a kiss or pickle.
:-x My lips are sealed.
:-# I wear braces.
:-$ My mouth is wired shut.
:-? I smoke a pipe.
:-} I have a beard.
:-B I have buck teeth.
:-[ I’m a vampire.
:-{} I wear lipstick.
:-{) I have a mustache.
:-~) My nose runs.
:-)~ I’m drooling.
:-)-8 I have big breasts.
:*) I’m drunk.
:^) My nose is broken.
:~I I’m smoking.
:/i No smoking!
:~j I’m smoking and smiling.
:'-( I’m crying.
:'-) I’m so happy, I’m crying.
:) I’m a midget.
;-) I’m winking.
.-) I have just one eye,
,-) but I’m winking it.
?-) I have a black eye.
%-) Dizzy from staring at screen too long!
8-) I wear glasses.
B-) I wear cool shades, man.
g-) I wear pince-nez glasses.
P-) I’m a pirate.
O-) I’m a scuba diver.
|-O I’m yawning.
|^O I’m snoring.
X-( I just died.
8:-) My glasses are on my forehead.
B:-) My sunglasses are on my forehead.
O:-) I’m an angel.
+:-) I’m a priest.
[:-) I’m wearing a Walkman.
&:-) I have curly hair.
@:-) I have wavy hair.
8:-) I have a bow in my hair.
{:-) I wear a toupee,
}:-) but the wind is blowing it off.
-:-) I’m a punk rocker.
-:-( but real punk rockers don’t smile.

[:] I’m a robot.
3:] I’m your pet,
3:[ but I growl.
}:-> I’m being devilish,
>;-> and lewdly winking.
=:-) I’m a hosehead.
E-:-) I’m a ham radio operator.
C=:-) I’m a chef.
=|:-)= I’m Uncle Sam.
<):-) I’m a fireman.
*<:-) I’m Santa Claus.
*:o) I’m Bozo the clown.
<:I I’m a dunce.
(-: I’m a lefty.
Easy CD Creator
How to Uninstall Easy CD Creator 3 and 4 in Windows XP
Easy CD Creator 5.0 Remains Installed After You Try to Remove It Through Add or Remove
Programs
E-Mail - Test Your E-mail Defenses
Emergency: Fighters for Life
Emergency: Fighters for Life Program Causes an Error Message in Windows XP
Encrypted Files
HOW TO: Identify Encrypted Files in Windows XP
Encrypted File System (using NTFS in Windows XP)
Encryption - Show Encryption Commands on the Shortcut Menu
You may find it easier to enable EFS by placing "Encrypt" and "Decrypt" commands on the
Microsoft Windows Explorer context menu when a file is right-clicked with the mouse. Go to
Start/Run/Regedit and find the key below.
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advan
ced]
Value Name: EncryptionContextMenu
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = default, 1 = enabled)
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'EncryptionContextMenu' and
edit the value according to the settings above. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log
out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Encryption - Manage the Encrypting File System

When you use Encrypting File System (EFS), you can store data securely because selected NTFS
file system files and folders can be encrypted. This setting allows you to enable or disable EFS.
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\EFS]
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called "EfsConfiguration" and set it
according to the value data above. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of
Windows for the change to take effect.
End Task - Time Out
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control Add a new string value called,
"WaitToKillServiceTimeout" and change the Value to 2000. Exit, reboot.
Epson
Espson Support for Windows XP
Error 691
Either your user account is not registered with the domain listed, your password is expired, or you
mistyped the information. If you do not specify a domain, the remote access server attempts to
verify your user name and password on the domain of which it is a member.
Carefully retype your user name, password, and domain. If you are unsure of this information,
contact your system administrator.
"Error 691" Error Message When You Try to Connect to Your ISP
"Error 691" or "Error 734" When You Attempt to Establish a Dial-Up Connection in Windows XP
"Error 721," "Error 678," "Error 691," or "Error 777" Error Message When You Try to Establish a
Dial-Up Connection After You Upgrade to Windows XP
Error 692
Error 692: Hardware Failure in Port or Attached....
"Error 692: Hardware Failure in the Modem" Error Message When You Dial an RAS Server
Error 720
Error 720: No PPP Control Protocols Configured
Error 769
"Error 769" Error Message When You Try to Connect to the Internet Through a PPPoE
Connection
Error 1230

You Receive a "System Error 1230" Error Message When You Browse the Network
Error 1606
Go to: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Shell
Folders
Ensure that the Common Administrative Tools entry is correct. It should read:
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu\Programs\Administrative Tools
Err Msg: Error 1606 Could Not Access Network Location
Error 1719
"Error 1719. The Windows Installer Service Could Not Be Accessed" Error Message When You
Add or Remove Program
Error Messages - When Booting (Disable)
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Windows
Value Name: NoPopupsOnBoot
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (1 = disable messages)
Stops the annoying Windows pop-up messages notifying you a device is not functioning when
you boot-up Windows.
Create a REG_DWORD value of 'NoPopupsOnBoot' in the key below (if it doesn't already exist).
Set the value to '1' to disable pop-up messages from appearing.
Error Message - When Booting: A Serious Error.....
Windows XP Patch: System Recovery Error Appears After Every Reboot
You Receive a "System Has Recovered from a Serious Error" Message After Every Restart
Three other options:
Right Click the My Computer
Icon/Properties/Advanced/Performance/Settings/Advanced/Change. Set Page File to 0, ok your
way out and reboot. Then follow the same procedure and reset the Page File to System Managed
File.
Right Click the My Computer Icon/Properties/Advanced/Performance/Advanced/Virtual
Memory/Change/No Page File. Reboot. Then delete C:\Pagefil.Sys then revert the page file
setting.
Right Click the My Computer Icon/Properties/Advanced/Performance/Advanced/Virtual
Memory/Change. Set the swap file size to zero, reboot. Re-set to System Managed, reboot. Reset
the Custom setting, reboot.

Error Reporting - Automatic
Windows XP contains a feature that allows your system to send error report information directly
to Microsoft. This information is collected and analyzed to assist in spotting problems, and
developing solutions/fixes for them.
This feature can be customized as to what types of errors are reported, and what information is
sent to Microsoft, if you choose. Click Start, Run and enter GPEDIT.MSC. Go to Computer
Configuration/Administrative Templates/System/Error Reporting. Various options can be enabled,
disabled or customized here.
You can also disable error reporting, or change whether Program Errors, System Errors or both are
reported. You can even specify which Program errors will be reported. Right Click the My
Computer Icon/Properties/Advanced/Error Reporting and adjust the settings as desired.
Additionally, Error Reporting can be turned off in the Registry. Click Start, Run and enter
REGEDIT Go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\PCHealth\ErrorReporting
Locate the Value: DoReport and double click on it. Change the value to your desired setting: 1 =
Send Reports, 0 = Don't Send
Evaluation Expired
Windows XP Evaluation Expiration Behavior and Error Messages
Event Log
One of the administrative tools in Microsoft Management Console, Event Viewer maintains logs
about program, security, and system events on your computer. You can use Event Viewer to view
and manage the event logs, gather information about hardware and software problems, and
monitor Windows security events.
If Event Viewer reports on startup that one or more of your log files is corrupt, you can remedy
the situation as follows:
Disable the Event Log service. Restart Windows XP. Delete the corrupt log(s)—Appevent.evt,
Secevent.evt, and/or Sysevent.evt—from %SystemRoot%\System32\Config (or wherever they
may be).
Your existing event data will be lost, but a new log file will be created when the service is
restarted, and that log will start to accumulate new events. Re-enable the Event Log service, and
start the service. If the Event Log service doesn’t restart successfully, then restart Windows XP.
You cannot delete or rename the log files while the Event Log service is running.
Event Viewer - Clear Log
Start/Run/Eventvwr.msc. Right click either/each in the right pane/Properties/Clear Log.
Executable Files

Cannot Start Executable Programs (.exe Files) on Your Computer
You Are Unable to Start a Program with an .exe File Extension
EXE File Association Fix for Windows XP
This download restores the default File Association for EXE files. Download the REG file here
and save it to your hard drive. Double click the file you just saved and answer yes to the import
prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking the file and selecting Edit.
Explore - Processes
Process Explorer shows you information about which handles and DLLs processes have opened
or loaded.
http://www.sysinternals.com/ntw2k/freeware/procexp.shtml
Explorer - Right Pane Blank
Click in the blank right-hand pane. Press the Ctrl key and the + key (only the + key on the
numeric keypad)
Q179875 Windows Explorer Does Not Display Item's Contents in Right Pane
Explorer Crashes - No Desktop Icons and/or Start Button
Control/Alt/Delete - When the Windows Task Manager dialog box appears, select the File menu
and then New Task (Run). When the Create New Task dialog box appears, type in Explorer and
press the OK button. Windows Explorer should restart complete with the Start button.
Explore Exe
Err Msg: Explorer.exe Has Generated Errors and Will Be Closed...
Winsock Proxy May Cause an Error Message in Windows XP
Error Message: Explorer.exe Has Generated Errors and Will Be Closed by Windows
Error Message When You Start Windows Explorer: Explorer.exe Has Generated Errors and Will
Be Closed by Windows
Explore Here - Add to Every Folder
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Directory\Shell\Explore. Value Name: (Default), Data Type: REG_SZ
(String Value), Value Data: explorer.exe /e,/root,"%1" Change the value of '(Default)' to equal
'E&xplore From Here'. Create a new key under the [Explore] key called command, and edit the
(Default) value to equal explorer.exe /e,/root,"%1".

SYMPTOMS
After you upgrade to Windows XP from an earlier Windows operating system, you may receive
the following error message when you first log on, and then the Windows Error Reporting utility
runs and creates a log file:
Explorer.exe has generated errors and will be closed by Windows

When you receive this error message, either no desktop appears or the desktop is blank. Task
Manager indicates that Explorer.exe is using close to 100 percent of the available resources.
Back to the top

CAUSE
This issue may occur if the Norton CleanSweep program was installed in the previous operating
system.
Back to the top

RESOLUTION
To resolve this issue, use one of the following methods.
Back to the top

Method 1
1. After you start the computer and receive the error message, press CTRL+ALT+DELETE.
2. Click Task Manager.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

In Task Manager, click New Task.
Type control, and then press ENTER to start Control Panel.
Double-click Add/Remove Programs.
In the list of currently installed programs, click CleanSweep, and then click Change/Remove.
Remove CleanSweep.
Restart the computer.

Back to the top

Method 2
1. Restart the computer. When you see the Boot menu, press the F8 key for options to start in
Safe mode.
2.

Select the Safe Mode Command Prompt option.
After you log on, type appwiz.cpl, and then press ENTER to start the Add/Remove Programs
3.
Wizard.
4. In the list of currently installed programs, click
CleanSweep, and then click Change/Remove.
5. Remove the CleanSweep program.
6. Restart the computer.
Back to the top

Method 3

1. Restart the computer. When you see the Boot menu, press the F8 key for options to start in
Safe mode.
2.

Select the Safe Mode Command Prompt option.
Change to the %SystemRoot%\System32 folder. Typically, this is the C:\WINNT\System32
3.
folder.
4. Rename the Apitrap.dll file to Apitrap.old.
5. Restart the computer.

SYMPTOMS
After you upgrade to Windows 2000 from an earlier Windows operating system, you may receive
the following error message after you first log on:
Explorer.exe has generated errors and will be closed by Windows. Dr Watson will run and create a
log file.
When this error message occurs, no desktop is displayed or the desktop is blank. You can press
CTRL+ALT+DELETE to start Task Manager. If you do so, you may notice that Explorer.exe is
consuming close to 100 percent of the available resources.
Back to the top

CAUSE
This behavior can occur if Norton CleanSweep was installed in the previous operating system.
Back to the top

RESOLUTION
To resolve this issue, use any one of the following methods:
Back to the top

Method 1
1. After booting the system and receiving the error message, press CTRL+ALT+DELETE.
2. Click Task Manager.
3. In Task Manager, click New Task (Run) on the File menu.
4. Type control, and then press ENTER. This opens Control Panel.
5. Double-click Add/Remove
Programs.
6. In the list of currently installed programs, click CleanSweep, and then click Change/Remove.
7. Uninstall CleanSweep.

8. Reboot the computer.
Back to the top

Method 2
1. Reboot the computer. When you see the Boot menu, press F8 for Safe-mode options.
2. Select the Safe Mode Command Prompt option.
3. After you log on, type appwiz.cpl, and then press ENTER. This starts the Add/Remove
Programs Wizard.
4. In the list of currently installed programs, click CleanSweep, and then click Change/Remove.
5. Uninstall CleanSweep.
6. Reboot the
computer.
Back to the top

Method 3
1. Reboot the computer. When you see the Boot menu, press F8 for Safe-mode options.
2. Select the Safe Mode Command Prompt option.
3. Change to the %SystemRoot%\System32 folder. Typically, this is the c:\Winnt\System32 or
C:\Windows\System32 folder.
4. Rename the Apitrap.dll file to Apitrap.old.
5. Reboot the computer.
Back to the top

STATUS
Microsoft has confirmed that this is a problem in the Microsoft products that are listed at the
beginning of this article.
Back to the top

MORE INFORMATION
The third-party products that are discussed in this article are manufactured by companies that are
independent of Microsoft. Microsoft makes no warranty, implied or otherwise, regarding the
performance or reliability of these products.
Back to the top

SYMPTOMS
When you start Windows Explorer, or when you use the Search feature to search for files or
folders and then start Windows Explorer, you may receive the following error message:
Explorer.exe has generated errors and will be closed by Windows.
You will need to restart the program.
An error log is being created.
Back to the top

CAUSE
This behavior can occur if you install Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 and there is a program or a
service installed on your computer that is incompatible with Internet Explorer 6.
Back to the top

RESOLUTION
To resolve this issue, remove Internet Explorer 6 and restore the earlier version of Internet
Explorer. To do this, follow these steps.
NOTE: You must be logged on as Administrator or as a member of the Administrators group to
remove Internet Explorer 6 on a Windows 2000-based computer. After you remove Internet
Explorer 6, you cannot remove the earlier version of Internet Explorer that remains on the
computer.
1. Quit all running programs.
2. Click Start, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
3. Double-click Add/Remove Programs.
4. In the Currently installed programs list, click Microsoft Internet Explorer 6, and
then click Change/Remove.
5. Click Restore the earlier Windows configuration, and then click OK.
6. Click Yes when you are prompted to remove Internet Explorer.
7. Click Restart Windows to restart the computer.
Start Windows Explorer to verify that you no longer receive the error message described in the
8.
"Symptoms" section of this article.

Start Internet Explorer, and then browse to the following Microsoft Web site to download any
security updates that are needed for the version of Internet Explorer that remains installed on
9.
your computer:
http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com

~
F
~
F6
Limited OEM Driver Support Is Available with F6 During Windows XP Setup
FAQ's
To read the FAQ go to
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/newsgroups/faq/default.asp
For general help with WindowsXP, try the Expert Zone
Other Microsoft product FAQ's hosted on microsoft.com:
Frequently Asked Questions About Microsoft Internet Explorer
Frequently Asked Questions About Office XP
Frequently Asked Questions About Visual Studio .NET
Frequently Asked Questions About Microsoft Product Activation
Frequently Asked Questions About Microsoft Volume Licensing
Frequently Asked Questions About Windows XP from Microsoft Product Support
Remote Assistance FAQ for General Users
Windows Messenger FAQ
UPnP NAT Traversal FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about Microsoft DirectX
Frequently Asked Questions About the IPv6 Protocol for Windows XP
Fast Boot /Fast Resume Design
Bootvis is a Boot performance trace visualization tool for use with Windows XP systems. It gives
a graphical view of what processes are doing what and when during boot and allow you to
optimise your boot up. A very handy tool.
Download Bootvis: http://www.microsoft.com/hwdev/platform/performance/fastboot/default.asp
http://download.microsoft.com/download/whistler/BTV/1.0/WXP/EN-US/bootVis-tool.exe

This is a self extracting ZIP file. Double click the file you just downloaded and unzip it to the
folder of your choice. Locate Bootvis.exe click on it. You will now see the GUI of bootvis.
Now go to File/New and choose "Next boot trace" or "Next boot and drivers chase". Leave
everything else as is and get ready for a reboot in 15 seconds.
Then click on the Bootvis.exe, it will now output the results, once it has finished generating the
report, you will see graphs 5
or 6 graphs. They look a bit confusing at this stage.
From the main menu .. Click on Trace >> optimize system, then reboot.
You will see a message box "Please wait for bootvis to load" ... about 20 seconds later another
message box will appear "Optimizing system for boot performance" basically bootvis is
rearranging the boot files for a faster startup
Fast Logon
Description of Windows XP Professional Fast Logon Optimization
Fast User Switching - Modem Disconnects
In the Network Connections Folder right click the Connection
Icon/Properties/Advanced/Sharing/Allow others to connect.
Tip: Allow Fast User Switching
Fast user switching allows you to quickly switch to another user account without having to close
any programs. This setting controls whether fast user switching is available.
Open your registry and find the key below. You may need to create the key if it does not already
exist.
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'AllowMultipleTSSessions' and
edit the value according
to the settings below.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Value Name: AllowMultipleTSSessions
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = Disable Fast User Switching, 1= Enable)
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Fast User Switching and Internet Connection
The following entry will stop the prompt to shut down the connection when changing users under
Windows XP. This
enables a permanent internet connection with multiple users on your PC under Windows XP. Go
to: Start/Run/Regedit

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Right click in the right pane, select New/String Value. Name the value KeepRasConnections and
set it to 1. Reboot.
If working in the registry is not to your liking, you can use this Regedit, VB Script or my
KeepRas Utility to do it for you.
Note:
To use the Regedit: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and
answer yes to the import prompt. REG files
can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting Edit.
To use the VBS Files: Download .vbs file and save it to your hard drive (you
may want to right click and use Save Target
As). Double-click the vbs file. You will be prompted when the script is done.
Windows has the option to automatically dial your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to
establish an Internet connection. This option can be controlled using this tweak.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet Settings
Value Name: EnableAutodial
Data Type: REG_BINARY (Binary Value)
Value Data: (00 00 00 00 = disabled, 01 00 00 00 = enabled)
Create a new binary value named "EnableAutodial", and set the new value to equal "01 00 00 00"
to enable autodial or
"00 00 00 00" to disable it.
Note: This restriction can be used either on a user by user basis by adding it to
HKEY_CURRENT_USER or on a computer wide basis by adding it to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE.
Difference Between Log Off and Switch User Commands
Programs Do Not Create Shortcuts for Fast User Switching Users
Windows XP Slows If Users Are Logged On with Fast User Switching
More information here:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_modem.htm
Favorites
Favorites Folder Location and Saving Tips
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_favorites.htm
Tip: Locate Dead Links in Favorites
Go to Windows Explorer\C:\Documents and Settings\<username>\Favorites. Change the view to
thumbnails. If one is
listed 404, delete it.
Favorites - Prioritize

Elevate its priority on the Start menu by putting it at the top of the list. This ensures the program
will remain on the Start
menu and cannot be bumped by other programs, even if you use the others more frequently.
Right-click the link to your favorite program on the Start menu and select Pin to Start Menu. Your
program will be moved permanently to the top part of the list, just below your browser and e-mail
programs.
Start Menu and Favorites Menu Not Listed in Alphabetical Order
Tip: Follow by example: http://username:[email protected]/restricted/
Type in the URL. Add your User ID followed by a colon and then your password followed by an
at sign (@) in front of
your the URL and after the http:// Example: http://username:[email protected]
Tip: Custom icons are lost when you clean your cache. These are known as favicons.ico
(Favorite Icons) and they
normally will only last until your Internet Explorer Temp files are cleared.
This program will allow you to save the favicons.ico (Favorite Icons) permanently in a different
folder and re-associate
your favorites with the stored icons.
FavOrg - Restore and Save Favorite Icons (Line 108)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
FavesToGo - Save Favorites Quickly (Line 108)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Workaround:
Navigate to the Temporary Internet Files, and drag the icons to the desktop and rename them to
whatever name you like.
Then, create a folder called Icon Selection. Move all of the renamed favicons to this folder placed
in the root directory
of C. Right click on the Icon, select Browse and navigate to your Icon Selection folder. Choose
the renamed favicon
and click ok. These icons will be permanent.
When you right click on an icon, select browse and navigate to the Icon Selection folder. Choose
the renamed favicon
you want and click ok. Your customized icons will be permanent.
Favorite Icons are Missing
Custom icons are lost when you clean your cache. These are known as favicons.ico (Favorite
Icons) and they
normally will only last until your Internet Explorer Temp files are cleared.
This program will allow you to save the favicons.ico (Favorite Icons) permanently in a different

folder and re-associate
your favorites with the stored icons.
FavOrg - Restore and Save Favorite Icons (Line 108)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
FavesToGo - Save Favorites Quickly (Line 108)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Workaround:
Create a folder called Icon Selection. Move all of the renamed favicons to this folder placed in the
root directory of
C. Right click on the Icon, select Browse and navigate to your Icon Selection folder. Choose the
renamed favicon and
click ok. These icons will be permanent.
When you right click on an icon, select browse and navigate to the Icon Selection folder. Choose
the renamed favicon
you want and click ok. Your customized icons will be permanent.
FAX - News
Free Internet and Email Faxing, Information, Software, Services, and Materials. Learn all about
it, click here
Faxing, printing and copying are major aspects of business. Many businesses rely on these tasks
in order to stay successful. Printing, copying and faxing is a much needed service and a lot of
companies offer services in this area.Copying and ...Email Fax Software: Find The Best And
Completely Free
How To Send A Fax: Fax Machines, Over The Internet And By Email
Free Internet Fax: Email, Online, Services And Software
FAX - Notes
Fax provides you with complete fax facilities from your computer. You can configure fax settings,
send and receive faxes,
track and monitor fax activity, and access archived faxes. Using Fax, you can choose to send and
receive faxes with a
local fax device attached to your computer, or with a remote fax device connected to fax resources
located on a network.
Fax is not installed by default during Windows Setup. To install the Fax component: Open Add
or Remove Programs in Control Panel. Click Add/Remove Windows Components. In the
Windows Components Wizard, select the Fax Services check box, and then follow the instructions
on your screen.
To open Fax after installation, click Start, point to All Programs, point to Accessories, point to
Communications, and then
click Fax Console. For more information on using Fax, click Help in Fax Console.

Troubleshooting FAX Problems in Windows XP
Windows XP KB Articles About Printing and Fax
Troubleshooting Enabling and Configuring the Fax Service
Dialing Rules May Not Be Applied to Tools Such as Fax
Features - Set by Default in Home and Pro (How to enable/disable)
http://www.pcworld.com/features/article/0,aid,81996,pg,7,00.asp
File and Settings Transfer Wizard
Files and Settings Are Lost When You Use the Transfer Wizard
List of Programs Whose Settings Are Migrated When You Use the Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard
How to Troubleshoot Issues with the User State Migration Tool and the Files and Settings
Transfer Wizard
HOW TO: Use the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard with a Wizard Disk
HOW TO: Use the Files & Settings Transfer Wizard By Using the Win XP CD
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_setup.htm
HOW TO: Back Up Information to a CD
Recorded CD-ROM Is Missing Files or Folders, or Is Unreadable
File Associations
Fix file associations from the Command Line: Did you leave the Always Use This Program To
Open This File option
turned on? Do you want to change it back so it prompts you to specify a program each time? To
delete the association
with that file type, at the command prompt enter the command ASSOC.EXT= [where .EXT
specifies the extension of
the file type whose association you want to delete (e.g., .WAV for wave files)].
Now whenever you double-click on the file of that type, the system will ask you what program
you want to use to open
the file. For more information: http://www.dougknox.com/xp/tips/xp_easy_file.htm.
HOW TO: Change File Associations in Windows XP
File Association Fixes - Various File Association fixes can be found here.
File Extensions
"Every File Format in the World"
This is a list of file name extension or suffixes that indicate the format or usage of a file and a
brief description of that
format. We don't really show the file format itself here. In fact, many formats are proprietary and
we couldn't show
them to you. In some cases, we link to a definition of the file format or to related information.
In general, if you have the program that uses the file format, that program can be used to open or
otherwise use the file.

Some file formats (for example, the GIF file format used for Web page images) are standard
formats that can be opened
by any program that supports that standard format.
File Formats and Extensions
While downloading files from the Web, you will undoubtedly encounter many different types of
electronic files formats.
The way to identify the file type is by looking at its extension, typically expressed as a dot
followed by 2 to 4 letters
(.xxx). Why should you care? You need to identify the file type to know whether it will work on
your computer, and
whether you will need a particular type of software to decompress, play, or view it.
Various File Formats and How to Deal With Them
This search engine lets you search for the meaning of 2,368 file extensions. Click here.
Filename Extensions - Tech Dictionary
File Extensions
File Extensions - Unrecognized Extension - Disable
Start/Run/Regedit
Go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System
Right click in the right pane and select New, DWord value. Name it NoInternetOpenWith Double
click the new
value and set it to 1. You'll go straight to the Programs listing.
For a single user, while logged on to their desktop, go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer. Right click
in the right pane
and select New, DWord value, name it InternetOpenWith and leave the value set to 0.
File List
FileList is a command line utility that produces a list of files of the given path in the CSV format,
which can be imported
in a spreadsheet or database. The list includes the file name, the size, the path, the last access and
change date. Under Windows NT/2000/XP it also includes the owner of the file. Screenshot.
Download.
File Missing - Cannot find a device file...
You may receive an error message if a file is missing, for example: Cannot find a device file that
may be needed to run Windows or a Windows application. The Windows registry or SYSTEM.INI
file refers to this device file, but the device
file no longer exists. Note that the file name may or may not be included in the error message.
How to Determine the Source to a File

Files - Permission Denied When Trying to Delete Folders/Files
Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/View/Unmark "Use Simple File Sharing". Right click
the folder/file in question/Properties/Security/Advanced/Owner/Set Permissions.
HOW TO: Set, View, Change, or Remove File and Folder Permissions
More information here:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/win_xp_mydocs.htm
File Protection - Disable (Reference)
Windows 2000 and XP include a feature called Windows File Protection (WFP), part of the
System File Checker,
which is intended to avoid some of the common DLL consistency issues. This feature may also
block valid attempts to change system files and it can therefore be disabled using this tweak.
Open your registry (Start/Run/Regedit) and find the key below.
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon]
Value Name: SFCDisable
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: 0 = enabled (default), ffffff9d = disabled
Change the value of "SFCDisable" to equal "ffffff9d" to disable WFS or "0" to enable it. The other
valid hexadecimal
values are:





1 - disabled, prompt at boot to re-enable
2 - disabled at next boot only, no prompt to re-enable
4 - enabled, with popups disabled
ffffff9d - for completely disabled

Restart Windows for the change to take effect.
Additional Steps for Windows XP
This setting is disabled in Windows XP, and needs to re-enabled using a hex editor and changing
SFC.DLL (or SFC_OS.DLL for Windows XP) following these instructions:
1. Make a backup the SFC_OS.DLL in the C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32 directory.
2. Make an additional copy of SFC_OS.DLL called SFC_OS1.DLL and open it in a hex
editor.
3. At offset 0000E2B8 (0E2B8h) you should find the values "8B" and "C6". Do not continue
if you are unable to
find these values.
4. Change the values "8B C6" to read "90 90" and save the changes.
5. Run these commands to update the system files:
copy c:\windows\system32\sfc_os1.dll c:\windows\system32\sfc_os.dll /y
copy c:\windows\system32\sfc_os1.dll c:\windows\system32\dllcache\sfc_os.dll /y

6. If you are prompted to insert the Windows CD, click Cancel.
7. Restart Windows for the change to take effect.
Once these files have been updated apply the registry setting above.
Files - Recovery
Find any lost and deleted data on your drive (e.g. hard disk) even if the partition table is lost or the
drive has been
quick-formatted Lost Data, that is the result of a system crash can also be recovered. More
information here.
Files - Remove/Delete
Close all open apps. Open a command prompt and navigate to the directory with the offending
files. Then open the Task Manager and click on the Processes tab. select "Explorer.Exe" under
Image Name. Click "End Process".
Now you will only have the command prompt and the task manager. In the Command Prompt,
DEL the offending files
(DEL *.mpg, DEL mus*.avi, DEL test.wmv, etc.)
The files should now delete without a problem. Now go back to the task manager and click on the
Applications tab. Click
the "New Task..." button. in the dialog, type Explorer.Exe and click OK.
Process Explorer shows you information about which handles and DLLs processes have opened
or loaded. Use the
search function to find every handle that Explorer.Exe has open and close them (right-click on the
file and choose
'close handle'). Then delete the file(s) in question.
How do I delete an "undeletable" file?
Files - Rename
How to Rename Multiple Files with Windows Explorer. Start Windows Explorer. To do so, click
Start, point to All
Programs, point to Accessories, and then click Windows Explorer. Select multiple files in a folder.
To do so, press and
hold down the CTRL key while you are clicking files. After you select the files, press F2. Type the
new name, and then
press ENTER.
NOTE: When you complete the preceding steps, the highlighted state of all files except one
disappears, so it may appear
as if you are only renaming one file. However, after you press ENTER, all of the files are
renamed. When you rename multiple files, all of the renamed files have the same name with a
number in parentheses appended to the name to make
the new file name unique. For example, if you type BUDGET as the new name, the first file is
named BUDGET. All of

the remaining selected files are named BUDGET( x ), where x is a unique number, starting with
(1).
File Sharing
Windows XP Simple File Sharing
Windows XP Professional File Sharing
Description of File Sharing and Permissions in Windows XP (Q304040)
File Types - Specify Unknown File Type Options
These settings allow you to specify a description and the application to launch to view files with
an unknown extension.
Open your registry (Start/Run/Regedit) and find the key below. Set the "(Default)" value to equal
the description you
want to use for unknown file types.
System Key: [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Unknown]
Value Name: (Default)
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value)
Create a new sub-key called [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Unknown\shell\Open\Command] and set
the "(Default)"
value to equal the command used to view unknown file types. Substitute the symbol "%1" to
represent the filename
in the command (e.g. "notepad.exe %1").
Restart Windows for the change to take effect.
Firewall Reporter
Now users of Windows XP can easily analyze and monitor the log files created by XP Personal
Firewall. Using XP
Firewall Reporter makes it easy to report hackers and script kiddies to their ISPs for abuse policy
infractions and
allows you to readily understand where your Internet security needs to be fortified.
Floppy Drive - Is Active
1. Check your recent documents that point to the A: drive. And/or try clearing My Recent
Documents.
2. Do a search for *.lnk, then delete any references to A: that are not "Send To" or similar
"shortcuts".
3. Right click the My Computer icon/Manage. Services and Applications/Services/Shell
Hardware Detection and set
it to Automatic. Or Programs/Administrative Tools/Services/In the right pane set "Shell
Hardware Detection" service
to automatic.

4. Start/Run/gpedit.msc/User Configuration/Administrative Templates/Windows
Components/Windows Explorer.
In the right pane double click Hide these specific drives from my computer. Enable then use
the drop box.
5. Do a Start/Run/CMD then type in the path command. Is a: listed in the search path?
6. Some AV software will automatically scan the floppy drive at both startup and shutdown.
7. This may be a reappearance of the NTFS bug on showing color. Explorer, Tools, Folder
Options, View uncheck
"Show encrypted or compressed NTFS folders in color"
8. In the BIOS set the PC to boot first to drive C, not the A. And also, go into the boot section in
the bios and and
turn off floppy drive seek at boot.
9. Task Scheduler can cause floppy seeking on startup. Even is you choose to *Stop using Task
Scheduler* (but do
not Disable the service) in the Scheduled Tasks>Advanced Options, you will still get the
thrashing - you have to
*disable* the service altogether to get rid of the thrashing.
10. Log off then log back on
Floppy Drive - Please insert disk
This behavior can occur if a folder that includes a .pif file that references a program file on a
floppy disk drive is opened.
For example, if you have a .pif file with a command line "a:\edit.com" in the Windows\Temp
folder, your floppy disk
drive may be active when you start your computer.
To resolve this issue, change the command line reference in the Properties of the shortcut, or
delete the shortcut: For example, if the command line reads a:\edit.com, change the line to read
edit.com.
This issue most often occurs after the contents of a floppy disk are copied to a folder on your hard
disk. This can also
occur if a shortcut on your hard disk references a program that is on a floppy disk. Note that this
can also occur on
other removable media.
Check your settings here: Programs/Administrative Tools/Services. In the right pane set "Shell
Hardware Detection"
service to automatic.
"Please Insert Disk into Drive A:" Appears Repeatedly at Startup
Folder
How to Designate the Original Folder Name for a Reinstallation of Windows XP

Folder Backgrounds - Customizing
Select the folder you want to use for your background wallpaper. You MUST convert the folder
you want to use to
a SYSTEM folder. At the command prompt screen (Start/Run/CMD) which looks something like
this: c:\> type this command: attrib +s c:\myfolder and then hit the return key.
Copy and paste the script below into Notepad and change the line that says IconArea_Image to
point to the directory
and the file that you want to use for the background image.
[ExtShellFolderViews]
{BE098140-A513-11D0-A3A4-00C04FD706EC}={BE098140-A513-11D0-A3A400C04FD706EC}
[{BE098140-A513-11D0-A3A4-00C04FD706EC}]
Attributes=1
IconArea_Image=C:\YOUR LOCATION\OF\ANY\IMAGE.JPG
IconArea_Text=0x00000000
The last line in the script tells Windows what color the font will be when you read the files in that
folder. For instance:
0x00000000 = black
0x00FF0000 = blue
0x0000FF00 = green
0x000000FF = red
0x00C000C0 = purple
Now save the file you just created as desktop.ini and place it into the directory you just converted
into a system folder.
Now close that folder and then reopen. (From a Newsgroup post made by Alberich)
Tip: If a folder uses the wrong background picture and you can't change it: Start/Run/Regedit
and remove this key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Shell\Bags.
Added Note:
Question: One of my special folders (e.g. My Documents, My Music, My Pictures, Shared
Documents, etc) has lost
its name, lost its icon, or has the wrong Task Pane template, how can I get it back?
Answer: This problem can occur if the hidden desktop.ini file in the special folder is corrupt or
missing. Here are the
steps to fix this problem:
Open the special folder, then in the address bar type \desktop.ini at the end of the path and press
enter. This will open Notepad.
If, instead of opening Notepad, you get a message saying Windows cannot find the file right click
in the folder and select properties, then go to the Customize tab and click Change Icon then click

OK and click OK again. This will create a desktop.ini with the correct Hidden and System
attributes. Now you can repeat the first step.
1.

In Notepad change the text of the file to the correct text specified below (My
Documents, My Music,
My Pictures, My Videos, Favorites, Shared Documents, Shared Music, Shared
Pictures, Shared Videos).
Then save the file and exit Notepad.
2.
Log Off all the way and then Log In.
Note: When the text of one of these files contains Douglas Thrift replace it with your own user
name.

My Documents
[DeleteOnCopy]
Owner=Douglas Thrift
Personalized=5
PersonalizedName=My Documents

My Music
[DeleteOnCopy]
Owner=Douglas Thrift
Personalized=13
PersonalizedName=My Music
[.ShellClassInfo]
[email protected],-12689
IconFile=%SystemRoot%\system32\shell32.dll
IconIndex=-237

My Pictures
[DeleteOnCopy]
Owner=Douglas Thrift
Personalized=39
PersonalizedName=My Pictures
[.ShellClassInfo]
[email protected],-12688
IconFile=%SystemRoot%\System32\mydocs.dll
IconIndex=-101

My Videos
[.ShellClassInfo]
[email protected],-12690
IconFile=%SystemRoot%\system32\SHELL32.dll
IconIndex=-238
[DeleteOnCopy]
Owner=Douglas Thrift

Personalized=14
PersonalizedName=My Videos

Favorites
[.ShellClassInfo]
IconFile=%SystemRoot%\system32\shell32.dll
IconIndex=-173
[email protected],-12693

Shared Documents
[.ShellClassInfo]
[email protected],-21785

Shared Music
[.ShellClassInfo]
[email protected],-12689
IconFile=%SystemRoot%\system32\SHELL32.dll
IconIndex=-237
[email protected],-28995

Shared Pictures
[.ShellClassInfo]
[email protected],-12688
IconFile=%SystemRoot%\system32\mydocs.dll
IconIndex=-101
[email protected],-28997

Shared Videos
[.ShellClassInfo]
[email protected],-12690
IconFile=%SystemRoot%\system32\SHELL32.dll
IconIndex=-238
[email protected],-28996
Folder Guard - FAT32 Systems
When you use FAT32 for your file system, you do not have access to the security features of
NTFS. You can use this program to hide your private files and folders from other users. Restrict
access to important system files and be in full
control of the way your files and programs are used by other users of your computer with Folder
Guard: http://www.winability.com/folderguard
Folders - Add Fields to the Details View of Folders
You can add other columns to the Details view of the files contained in Windows XP folders, such
as Comments, Description, Category, and many others. To add new columns:

Right–click the column header of the files list, and then click one of the fields listed, or click
More. In the Choose Details dialog box, you can reorganize the order of column headers, specify
column widths, and add columns to display details
for the files in that folder. When you click the new column header, the width of the selected
column is displayed in pixels
in the Choose Details dialog box.
Folders - Add Folder To Taskbar
Right-click a blank area of the taskbar and select Toolbars, New Toolbar. Navigate your way to
the folder you have
in mind, then click OK. The folder's name will appear on the taskbar, to the left of the notification
area.
To access a file inside, click the double-arrow at the right edge of the new toolbar, select any
subfolder(s), if necessary,
then select the file you're after. To open the entire folder window, right-click the toolbar and select
Open Folder.
Folders - Add Picture to Front
Stick pictures on individual folders to remind you of what's inside. (Note: Don't change the
default folder icon, or you
won't see the picture.) Right-click a folder, select Properties and click the Customize tab. Click
Choose Picture,
navigate your way to the desired picture, then click OK. And remember, you'll only see the
picture in Thumbnails
view. (To switch to Thumbnails view, open a folder and select View, Thumbnails.)
Folders - Copy Files and Folders to a CD
•Insert a blank, writable CD into the CD recorder.
•Open My Computer.
•Click the files or folders you want to copy to the CD. To select more than one file, hold down the
CTRL key while you
click the files you want. Then, under File and Folder Tasks, click Copy this file, Copy this folder,
or Copy the selected
items.
•If the files are located in My Pictures, under Picture Tasks, click Copy to CD or Copy all items to
CD, and then skip to
step 5.
•In the Copy Items dialog box, click the CD recording drive, and then click Copy.
•In My Computer, double–click the CD recording drive. Windows displays a temporary area
where the files are held
before they are copied to the CD. Verify that the files and folders that you intend to copy to the
CD appear under Files
Ready to be Written to the CD.
•Under CD Writing Tasks, click Write these files to CD. Windows displays the CD Writing
Wizard. Follow the
instructions in the wizard.

Notes:
•Do not copy more files to the CD than it will hold. Standard CDs hold up to 650 megabytes
(MB). High–capacity CDs hold up to 850 MB.
•Be sure that you have enough disk space on your hard disk to store the temporary files that are
created during the CD writing process. For a standard CD, Windows reserves up to 700 MB of the
available free space. For a high–capacity
CD, Windows reserves up to 1 gigabyte (GB) of the available free space.
•After you copy files or folders to the CD, it is useful to view the CD to confirm that the files are
copied. To stop the CD recorder from automatically ejecting the CD
•Open My Computer.
•Right–click the CD recording drive, and then click Properties.
•On the Recording tab, clear the Automatically eject the CD after writing check box.
Folders - Expand All in Windows Explorer
Press the '*' key on the numeric keypad while in Explorer to immediately expand all folders and
subfolders on that drive.
Be careful of what you choose to expand, however; if it's a giant Network drive, you could be
sitting idle for a minute
or two.
Folders - Move
How to Move Shell Folders and Contents
Registry Settings for Folder Redirection in Windows
Folder Opens Search Window
Go to Start/Run and type in: regsvr32 /i shell32
If that doesn't correct the issue use this automated edit:
Search Opens When Double Clicking a Folder or Drive (Line 18)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the VBS File: Download .vbs file and save it to your hard drive (you may want to right
click and use Save
Target As). Double-click the vbs file. You will be prompted when the script is done.
Manual Edit:
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Directory\Shell
Set the Default value to "none" without the quotes. To do this, double click where it says Default.
You may also need to check:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Drive\shell
The default value for this entry should be "none", as well.

Folder Options
When you try to use options in Windows Explorer to apply the view setting of the current
(selected) folder to all of the folders that are on your computer, Windows XP may not apply the
setting to another folder that is open.
This behavior can occur if more than one instance (copy) of Windows Explorer is running on your
computer.
To work around this behavior, follow these steps: Quit all instances of Windows Explorer, and
then restart Windows Explorer so that only one instance of Windows Explorer is running. Make
the necessary changes to the view setting.
Click Folder Options on the Tools menu, and then click Like Current Folder on the View tab. Quit
Windows Explorer,
and then start Windows Explorer again.
The View Setting of the Current Selected Folder Is Not Applied to Another Open Folder
Folder Options - Restricted
When you try to access Folder Options from within Windows Explorer, or Internet Options from
within Internet Explorer,
you receive the following error message:
"Restrictions - This operation has been cancelled due to restrictions in effect on this computer.
Please contact you system administrator."
The Folder Options and Internet Options may still be available from the Start Menu, Settings, and
the Internet Options Control Panel applet.
A NoBrowserOptions setting in the Registry causes both Folder Options from within Windows
Explorer and Internet Options from within Internet Explorer to be 'restricted'. Why Folder Options
is affected, is not known at this time.
Click the link below and download the nobrowseroptions.inf file. Save the file to your hard drive.
Locate the file and right click it, select Install. This will clear the Registry entry. You may need to
log off/log on for the change to take effect.
nobrowseroptions.inf
Folder Permissions - Automate
How To Automate Folder Permissions (Q180464)
Folder Type as Template
Every Windows XP folder provides a list of hyperlinked tasks appropriate to that type of folder
next to the folder contents. For example, the Pictures folder type contains task links for ordering
prints online and for printing pictures. If you want
to use a folder type as a template for a selected folder, follow these steps:

Right–click a newly created folder, and then click Properties. Click the Customize tab. In the Use
this folder type as a template list, click the template type you want to apply, and then click OK.
Now, when you open the new folder, it will contain a hyperlinked task list common to the type of
folder you selected as the template.
Folder Views
HOW TO: Arrange Files Using Folder Views
HOW TO: Customize the Windows Explorer Views
HOW TO: View Previously-Opened Folders When You Log On to Windows XP
Folder Views - Change Window To Double-Paned View
Want to switch a folder window from single to a double-paned view (as if you opened the folder
inside Windows
Explorer)? All it takes is one click.
Open any folder window and look for the Folders icon on the Standard Buttons toolbar. Click it
once to jump to a
double-paned window. Click it again, and you're back to a single pane.
Folder Views - Keep Settings
Go to - Start/Run/Regedit and Delete these two keys, reboot then re-set your folder options.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\ShellNoRoam\BagMRU
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\ShellNoRoam\Bags
If you prefer not to deal with the registry, you can use the edit from here:
Restore Folder Views (Line 2)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Windows remembers 400 folders. When that number is reached things start to go wrong. You can
up this to 1000 by a
dding this to the registry. All tested and working. Things will last a little longer.
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Shell]
"BagMRU Size"=dword:000003e8
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\ShellNoRoam]
"BagMRU Size"=dword:000003e8
If you prefer not to deal with the registry, you can use the edit from here:
Increase Folder View Options Limit: (Line 2)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Save Settings on Exit (Line 54)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

Note: Apply to all folders does not stick:
If you are using TweakUI/Uncheck Only allow Windows Classic Shell
Folders - Special
Question: One of my special folders (e.g. My Documents, My Music, My Pictures, Shared
Documents, etc) has lost
its name, lost its icon, or has the wrong Task Pane template, how can I get it back?
Answer: This problem can occur if the hidden desktop.ini file in the special folder is corrupt or
missing. Here are the
steps to fix this problem: Illustrated, detailed instructions here:
http://computers.douglasthrift.net/winxpfaq/#faq3
Folders - To Set the My Documents Folder to Private
On the Start menu, right-click My Documents, and then click Properties. Click the Sharing tab,
and then click to select
the Make this folder private so that only I have access to it check box. Click Apply, and then click
OK.
Note: You cannot make your folders private if your drive is not formatted as NTFS.
Home Edition: Set Permissions for Shared Files and Folders. Boot into safe mode and logon to the
'Administrator'
account. Right click the folder in question/Sharing and Security/Make Folder Private.
To view the Security tab for a file or folder in XP, hold down the Ctrl key while right-clicking the
file or folder, and select Properties. If you are in a domain instead of a workgroup, this approach is
unnecessary.
You Cannot Select the "Make This Folder Private" Option
Tip: Hide Files and Folders inside of Windows XP
Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/View/Show Hidden Files and Folders. Right click the
folder to be
hidden/Sharing and Security/General Tab/Hidden/Apply Changes to.../
Hide your private files and folders from other users. Restrict access to important system files and
be in full control of the
way your files and programs are used by other users of your computer.
http://www.winability.com/folderguard
Fonts - Replace All
A font may seem to be installed correctly but does not appear in the Fonts folder because the
Fonts key in the registry is missing or damaged.
Move the contents of the Fonts folder to an empty folder. By opening the Fonts folder, select all
the fonts, copy them, and paste them to a new folder. Start/Run/Regedit

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Fonts.
Highlight the key and press DELETE. Once the key has been deleted create a new key to replace
it, by selecting Edit/New/Key and name the new
key [Fonts].
Restart the computer, then re-install the fonts by opening the Control Panel, double-click on
'Fonts'. And from the File
menu select 'Install New Fonts...' adding the fonts that were previously copied to the temporary
directory.
Fonts Supplied with Windows XP
Format
How to Format Windows XP - MVP Michael Stevens
If you want to format for a clean install, simply boot from the XP CD (you will need to set the
bios order to boot from the
CD) and when it finishes it's scan for previous Windows installations choose the XP partition you
want to format and setup
will delete, format and do a clean install.
If you want the remove XP to reinstall a previous OS, you can use a Windows 98/Me startup disk
to format the partition if
it is Fat 32, or use fdisk to delete the non-dos partition if it is NTFS. Note that you can only use
fdisk to delete primary
NTFS partitions.
Obtain a Win 98/Me startup disk here. http://www.bootdisk.com. There is also special XP system
startup disk. Scroll
down to the bottom of the page. http://www.drd.dyndns.org/disks.html.
If you cannot boot from the CD and need to delete an extended NTFS partition, you can download
the image file to
create a 6 floppy disk start up set that will allow you to run Recovery Console.
There are Home and Pro specific versions.
Home: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/release.asp?releaseid=33290
Pro: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/release.asp?releaseid=33291
If you want to format a NTFS or Fat32 partition that is not the system partition, you can do this
with XP's Disk Manager.
Format and Recovery of Windows XP
Framedyn.dll
"Application Has Failed to Start Because Framedyn.dll Was Not Found" Error Message When
You Open the System Properties Dialog Box
Frequently Used Programs

If FUP are not being listed: Check the number of programs to be listed: Right click the Start
button/Properties/Customize/Number of Programs...
The number is also listed here: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced. In
the right pane,
check the Value Data under Start_MinMFU.
Tip: To prevent a program from being displayed in the Most Frequently Used Programs list:
1. Start Registry Editor (Regedit.exe).
2. Add an empty string value named NoStartPage to the following registry key, where <Program
name.exe> is the name
of the executable file that is used to start the program:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Applications\<Program name.exe>
3. Quit Registry Editor, and then restart the computer.
This setting allows you to decide which programs may be shown in the most frequently used
programs list on the Windows Start menu. Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Applications
To stop a specific application appearing on the MFU program list open its sub-key and create a
new empty string value called "NoStartPage". To allow an application to be shown in the list
delete the "NoStartPage" value. Restart Windows
for the change to take effect.
Frequently Used Programs Not Automatically Added to Start Menu
Policy:Disable user tracking Description:Prevents the system from remembering the programs
run, paths followed, and documents used. Registry Value:"NoInstrumentation"
Policy:Remove frequent programs list from the Start Menu
Description:Removes the frequently-used programs list from the Start menu. Registry Value:
"NoStartMenuMFUprogramsList"
Policy Settings for the Start Menu in Windows XP
Front Page
How to get the best answer to your questions in the Microsoft® FrontPage® Newsgroups
Front Page Express doesn't come with XP or Windows 2000. You can download it from here. In
the downloaded folder 'Software' search for Software\en\W98IE5\FPESETUP_259 (where the \en
is only for the english version and execute the FPESETUP_wu.exe). You can start Frontpage
Express then from Start/Programs/Accessories/Internet Tools/Front Page Express.
Tip: Help Files - Start/Run/Regedit:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\HTML Help.
Right click on the folder HTML Help/New/String Value. Rename ' New Value #1 ' with
fxpress.chm. Double click on this entry and then write the path to the local directory, where the
help file is saved. Then you can use the help from inside Frontpage Express.

~G
~
Games
Games Tested under Windows XP
General Tab - Editing
In the general tab of most menus, Microsoft will allow computer manufacturers to place their own
logo. You can, therefore, change this logo to be anything you want. Create a bitmap image of 210
x 120 of any image you wish and save/replace the file called OEMLOGO.BMP located in the
Windows\System folder or Windows\System32 folder depending upon your version of Windows.
Now, when you bring up menus, for example the System Properties, your image will be displayed
in the general tab.
Gina DLL
A replacement GINA DLL, used by 3rd party networking and remote access products can prevent
Windows XP from allowing the use of the new Welcome Screen. To resolve this issue, click Start,
Run and enter REGEDIT. Go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\Current Version\WinLogon.
In the right pane, right click on the entry for GinaDLL and select Delete..Or...
Restore the Windows XP Welcome Screen
Repairing/Modifying the Welcome Screen for Windows XP
Tip: Specify a Replacement GINA Authentication DLL
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon. Value
Name: GinaDLL, Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value). Create a new String value, or modify the
existing value, called 'GinaDLL' and edit the value:"c:\winnt\system32\mygina.dll". Note: You
will need to change this value if Windows is installed in the Windows directory.
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Glossary of Computer Terms
The link below will provide you with a comprehensive glossary of computer and Internet terms
with definitions that are helpful and easy to understand. To find a term, click the letter of which
the word begins with and scroll alphabetically to find your term. For example, to find the
definition for the word "Media", click the letter "M", then scroll the list alphabetically until you
find "Media". http://www.5starsupport.com/info/glossary.htm

Google - Auto Search
TweakUI/Internet Explorer/Search/Create
Prefix: Google or just "g"
URL: http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&num=100&q=%s
To disable the Search Companion feature and use the Classic Internet Search feature from Internet
Explorer 5.0 open Internet Explorer, click the Search button on the toolbar. Click Change
Preferences, and then click Change Internet search behavior. Click With Classic Internet Search,
and then click OK. Restart Internet Explorer for the changes to take effect.
To change the autosearch URL, open the Search sidebar again and click Customize. Then click
AutoSearch settings and select "Google Sites".
To re-enable the Search Companion feature, click Customize on the Search bar. Click Use Search
Companion in the Customize Search Settings dialog box, and then click OK. Restart Internet
Explorer for the changes to take effect.
Google - Remove Search History
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System
Provider\S-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\e161255a-37c3-11
d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\q:StringData]
"Behavior"="Item Data"=[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System
Provider\S-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\e161255a-37c3-11
d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\q:StringIndex]
"Behavior"="Item Data"=Note: The S-1-5 ... portion of this string may be different on your machine.
Google Desktop Search Status Index Web History:
For information how to promote a website, search engine optimization technique and resources,
click here.
GoZilla!
Problems Running Go!Zilla 4.0 with Windows XP
Grid Boxes - Hiding the Grid boxes around Buttons
If you've noticed in XP there are grid boxes around the buttons Ok and Cancel. It can be disabled:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Go to Control Panel
Go to Appearance and Themes
Click Display
In display properties window, click Appearance
Click Effects
Make sure you enable 'check' hide underlined letters for keyboard navigation until I press the

ALT key.
7. Apply/Ok
Groups - User
Over View of All User Groups in Windows XP
Guest Account Cannot Access the Internet on a Dial Up Connection
For users who use the Guest account: After applying this Registry edit, if you use Fast User
Switching, you can log on to an account (Limited or Administrator) and establish a Dialup
Networking Connection. After the connection is established, you can use Fast User Switching to
"switch" to the Guest account and the Guest account will have Internet Access.
To work around this behavior, you need to add the KeepRASConnections value to the Registry.
1. Start the Registry Editor by clicking Start, Run and entering REGEDIT.EXE. Click OK.
2. Expand the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE branch and locate the Software\Microsoft\Windows
NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon sub-branch.
3. Right click on a blank area of the right pane and select New, String value.
4. Name the new string value: KeepRASConnections
5. Double click the KeepRASConnections value and enter a “1”, without the quotes, for the value
data. Click OK.
6. Close the Registry Editor by clicking File, Exit
7. Close all applications and reboot the computer.
8. When the computer has rebooted, log on to a Regular or Administrator User account and
establish the Dialup Networking
Connection.

~
H
~
HAL - Hardware Abstraction Layer
HAL is Microsoft's abbreviation for the Hardware Abstraction Layer, the technology and drivers
that let the Windows NT, 2000, and XP operating systems communicate with your PC's hardware.
HAL is one of several features--along with the NT file system (NTFS) that replaced the much less
secure MS-DOS--that make NT-based operating systems more secure and reliable than Windows
95, 98, and Me.
HAL prevents applications from directly accessing your PC's system memory, CPU, or hardware
devices (such as video and sound cards)--a method that can prevent many device conflicts and
crashes. Unfortunately, HAL sometimes also slows or stops DOS games and programs, which
need to load their own memory managers or control hardware directly for better performance.
With HAL in the way, developers must rewrite or even abandon their older software in favor of

newer, HAL-compatible versions. Microsoft has pressured hardware makers to provide or support
technologies such as MMX, DirectX, and 3D graphics language OpenGL, all of which allow fast
but indirect access to the advanced high-performance features of video, sound, and CPU
hardware. Such access also makes for a better visual experience when using Windows for Web
and productivity applications; improved graphics performance is evident all over Windows XP's
new user interface.
XP also offers some new compatibility-mode features that let you run programs meant to run
under earlier operating systems, but, frankly, most DOS-based and even some Windows-based
games simply won't work with the new OS.
Tip: To see which HAL is currently installed, open Device Manager, and expand the
Computer branch. The entry that
appears in this branch corresponds to the currently installed HAL.
Situations in Which Windows May Not Start in Safe Mode
How to Troubleshoot Hardware Abstraction Layer Issues
How to Move a Windows XP Installation to Different Hardware
Setup Error Msg: Cannot find file: \Windows\System32\hal.dll
HAL.DLL is Missing
Boot from your CD and follow the directions below to start Recovery Console.
Insert the Setup compact disc (CD) and restart the computer. If prompted, select any options
required to boot from the CD.
When the text-based part of Setup begins, follow the prompts; choose the repair or recover option
by pressing R.
If you have a dual-boot or multiple-boot system, choose the installation that you need to access
from the Recovery Console.
When prompted, type the Administrator password. (if you didn't create one try pressing enter).
At the system prompt, type Recovery Console commands; type help for a list of commands, or
help commandname for help on a specific command.
Most likely you will need to expand the file from the CD. The command would be expand
d:\i386\hal.dl_ c:\windows\system32\hal.dll. Substitute d: for the drive letter of your CD. Once
you have expanded the file type "exit" to exit the Recovery Console and restart the computer.
Error Message: Cannot Find \Windows\System32\hal.dll
Hard Disk - Activity
Run the Task Manager, go to the Processes tab, and turn on the following columns: "I/O Read
Bytes" and "I/O Write Bytes." This will give you details as to which process is accessing the disk.
Although many processes will be accessing the disk a lot, look for one with a high total or a fast
rate of increase, especially when you hear the drive being accessed.
Hard Disk Performance Is Slower Than You Expect
OFFXP: Hard Disk Runs Continuously After You Install Office XP

Hard Disk - Cleaning
Hard disks keep getting bigger and bigger, but somehow we still run out of space. MP3s and other
media files are immensely popular–and simply immense. Programs are bigger, and data files are
bigger. Windows Explorer isn't much help. It will tell you the size of all selected files in a folder,
but nothing about the files in that folder's subfolders.
Enter DiskPie2 a utility to identify the biggest consumers of disk space. Pie charts let you see at a
glance which folders and file types are taking up the most space. The charts are highly
customizable, and can be printed.
An Explorer view lets you navigate to the folder you want to chart, and as a bonus displays the
number of bytes in and below the selected folder. DiskPie2 also can display and print a report of
the largest files in the selected folder. Armed with the information that DiskPie provides, you can
decide how best to allocate the space on your disk.
TreeSize: Every hard disk is too small if you just wait long enough. TreeSize tells you where
precious space has gone to. TreeSize can be started from the context menu of a folder or drive and
shows you the size of this folder, including its subfolders. You can expand this folder in Explorerlike style and you will see the size of every subfolder. Scanning is done in a thread, so you can
already see results while TreeSize is working. The space, which is wasted by the file system can
be displayed and the results can be printed in a report. TreeSize is Mailware for Windows
9x/NT/2000/XP. Download.
Hard Disk - Heavy Load
HeavyLoad simulates heavy activity on a PC, it allows you to test if a workstation or server PC is
working stable under heavy load. It stresses processor, memory and hard disks, operating system,
etc. Download.
Harddrive Repair
Title: Harddrive Repair
URL: http://www.my-hard-drive-repair.com
Description: Data recovery, hard drive repair,
recover files, tools, information and guide.
Title: Data Recovery
URL: http://www.my-data-recovery.com
Description: Hard drive recovery tools and tips,
guide for data recovery and repair.
Title: Quick Data Recovery
URL: http://www.quick-data-recovery.com
Description: Info on data recovery and tools for
repairing your hard drive.
Hardware Detection
Troubleshooting Device Manager Issues

Hardware Profiles in Windows XP
To create a hardware profile
You must be logged on as an administrator or a member of the Administrators group in order to
complete this procedure. If your computer is connected to a network, network policy settings may
also prevent you from completing this procedure.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Open System in Control Panel.
On the Hardware tab, click Hardware Profiles.
Under Available hardware profiles, click Profile 1 (Current), and then click Copy.
Type a name for the new hardware profile, and then click OK.
You can customize your new profile by enabling or disabling devices for that profile in
Device Manager.

Notes



To open System, click Start, click Control Panel, click Performance and Maintenance, and
then click System.
The profile named Profile 1 (Current) provides a model for you to create new hardware
profiles. It will not appear in the list of available hardware profiles shown during startup.

To specify the default hardware profile for startup
You must be logged on as an administrator or a member of the Administrators group in order to
complete this procedure. If your computer is connected to a network, network policy settings may
also prevent you from completing this procedure.
1. Open System in Control Panel.
2. On the Hardware tab, click Hardware Profiles.
3. Under Available hardware profiles, use the arrow buttons to move the hardware profile
you want to use as the default into the top position in the list. During startup, Windows
will load only the device drivers for hardware devices that are enabled in the profile you
select.
4. Under Hardware profiles selection, click one of the options that specifies how long
Windows waits before automatically loading the default hardware profile.
Notes



To open System, click Start, click Control Panel, click Performance and Maintenance, and
then click System.
If you want the default hardware profile to load automatically without showing you the list
during startup, enter a 0 in seconds under Hardware profiles selection. If you decide later
to select a different hardware profile, press the SPACEBAR during startup and choose a
profile from the list.

To copy, rename, or delete a hardware profile
You must be logged on as an administrator or a member of the Administrators group in order to
complete this procedure. If your computer is connected to a network, network policy settings may
also prevent you from completing this procedure.

1. Open System in Control Panel.
2. On the Hardware tab, click Hardware Profiles.
3. Under Available hardware profiles, click the existing hardware profile you want, and do
one of the following. Click:
o Copy to open the Copy Profile dialog box, and type a new name for the copy.
o Rename to open the Rename Profile dialog box, and type a new name for the
selected profile.
o Delete to remove the selected profile.
Note


To open System, click Start, click Control Panel, click Performance and Maintenance, and
then click System.

Hardware and Software Detection
The Belarc Advisor builds a detailed profile of your installed software and hardware. Download
here. In the Software Versions section you'll see all of your installed software. At the end of each
entry is a clickable asterisk that will take you to the folder the software is installed in.
Hardware Malfunction - Call your hardware vendor for support - The system has halted Error
Message
Hardware Malfunction Results in System Error Message
Hayes
Windows XP Drivers & INF Files
HCL - Hardware Compatibility List
Microsoft Windows Hardware Compatibility List
Microsoft Support Policy on Hardware Not On Windows HCL
Help - Annotate
There is a nice feature in most software Help menus that will allow you to add your own notes for
reference. Right click on
the open topic and choose Annotate if that option is allowed. A box will open and you can type
your notes there, then select Save. Thereafter, when you open the topic a paper clip will display in
the upper left corner. Clicking there will open your notes and you can delete these any time by
selecting the Delete option.
Help - Internet Help Versus Local Help
If the help file has a '?' marking the file's icon, it's on your hard drive. If it's a blue 'e,' then get
ready, you're Internet bound!
Help and Support
Update:

This issue can occur if one or more of the PCHealth components in your
computer are damaged.
To resolve this issue:
1. It is important to note if you have recently made alterations to your
computer before this problem occurred, or if the Help and Support Center
ever worked correctly. If you have recently made alterations to your
computer before this problem occurred, try to undo the changes you made or
uninstall the hardware or software that could have caused the issue. After
you do so, test to determine if the issue is resolved, and if it is, skip
the remaining steps. If the issue is not resolved, continue to the next
step.
2. Remove the .cab files from the Packagestore folder, and then rebuild the
original Help and Support Center:
a. Click Start, click Run, type "cmd" (without the quotation marks), and
then click OK to open a command prompt. Type "net stop helpsvc" (without
the quotation marks), and then press ENTER.
b. Type "cd /d windir\pchealth\helpctr" (without the quotation marks),
where windir is the Windows folder, and then press ENTER.
c. Type "rd packagestore /s /q" (without the quotation marks), and then
press ENTER.
d. Type "cd binaries" (without the quotation marks), and then press
ENTER.
e. Type "start /w helpsvc /svchost netsvcs /regserver /install" (without
the quotation marks), and then press ENTER.
f. If any of the following processes are running, stop them:
helpsvc.exe
helphost.exe
helpctr.exe
To stop a process, right-click the taskbar, and then click Task
Manager. Click the Processes tab, click the process you want to stop, and
then click End Process.
g. At the command prompt, type "net start helpsvc" (without the
quotation marks), and then press ENTER.
3. If the Help and Support Center has not been customized by an OEM, skip
to the next step. If the Help and Support Center has been customized by an
OEM, completely refresh the Help and Support Center:
a. Click Start, click Run, type "cmd" (without the quotation marks), and
then click OK to open a command prompt. Type "net stop helpsvc" (without

the quotation marks), and then press ENTER.
b. Type "cd /d windir\pchealth\helpctr" (without the quotation marks),
where windir is the Windows folder, and then press ENTER.
c. Type "rd packagestore /s /q" (without the quotation marks), and then
press ENTER.
d. Type "rd installedskus /s /q" (without the quotation marks), and then
press ENTER.
e. Type "cd binaries" (without the quotation marks), and then press
ENTER.
f. Type "start /w helpsvc /svchost netsvcs /regserver /install" (without
the quotation marks), and then press ENTER.
g. Type "start /w helpsvc /register" (without the quotation marks), and
then press ENTER.
h. If any of the following processes are running, stop them:
helpsvc.exe
helphost.exe
helpctr.exe
To stop a process, right-click the taskbar, and then click Task
Manager. Click the Processes tab, click the process you want to stop, and
then click End Process.
i. At the command prompt, type "net start helpsvc" (without the
quotation marks), and then press ENTER.
NOTE: The preceding procedure should not negatively affect an
OEM-customized Help and Support Center. However, it does remove any other
.cab files from the Packstorage folder, such as the Windows XP support
tools (which adds their table of contents into the Help and Support
Center).
4. If the preceding steps do not resolve the issue, use the Windows XP
CD-ROM to start your computer, and then run a repair (in-place upgrade)
installation.
Steven Liu
Repairs Windows® XP Help and Support after running Easy Cleaner
Note: If you have used Easy Cleaner, there is a workaround that prevents Help and Support from
becoming corrupt: In the options, add Help to the Skip List.
http://personal.inet.fi/business/toniarts
Start Menu/Help and Support doesn't work: Go to Start/Run and type in: helpctr -regserver

To reinstall Help and Support: Go to C:\Windows\inf\pchealth.inf. Right click and choose
install. Have your CD handy.
Note: The folder is hidden by default. Go to Start/Run and type in: control folders. View: Show
hidden files and folders and uncheck Hide extensions for known file types.
"Could not start the Help and Support Service on Local Computer. Error 126: The specified
module could not be found" Restore Help and Support Service. Restore Help and Support
Service Keys.
Also, make sure that the Help and Support Service is running. Go to Start/Run and type in:
services.msc. From there scroll down to Help and Support and make sure the service is set to
Automatic and is Started.
If the option is greyed out or Help and Support Service is not listed trying running these two
edits.
Restore Help and Support Service. Restore Help and Support Service Keys.
You may also opt to running the System File Checker. To do so, go to Start/Run/CMD and type
in: SFC /Scannow. This option forces Windows to scan all protected system files immediately.
Restore winhlp32.exe for XP or XPSP1 (Line 57)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
After installing SP1 for some users the correct version of win32hlp.exe is not properly placed in
the System32 folder. If this is the case replace the older version with the version found in
windows\ServicePackFiles\i386.
Another option to the above:
1. Insert the Windows XP installation CD into your CD-ROM.
2. Browse to your CD-ROM and change the folder to \I386
3. Copy the following files into a temporary folder on your hard disk:
Winhlp32.cn_
Winhlp32.ex_
Winhlp32.hl_
4. Click Start->Run, type CMD and then press Enter.
5. Change to the temporary folder where you stored the Winhlp32 files.
6. Type the following commands:
EXPAND WINHLP32.CN_ WINHLP32.CNT
EXPAND WINHLP32.EX_ WINHLP32.EXE
EXPAND WINHLP32.HL_ WINHLP32.HLP
7. Copy Winhlp32.exe to your \%SYSTEMROOT%\ folder.
8. Copy the Winhlp32.cnt, and Winhlp32.hlp to the \%SYSTEMROOT%\Help\folder.
9. Typically this folder is C:\Windows.
10. Delete the contents of your temporary folder.

Checkpoint: Help and Support Won't Expand
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager\Environment.
In the right pane, verify that the windir value is REG_EXPAND_SZ and not a REG_SZ type. If
not, change it.
Tip: If you want to view only the locally stored Windows XP Help documentation in the Classic
View: Go to Start/Run and type in: hh windows.chm
Check the default values for these registry keys to make sure that they match. Registry keys and
values to fix XP's Help and Support after running Toni Arts EasyCleaner.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\CLASSES\TypeLib\{FC7D9E00-3F9E-11D3-93C000C04F72DAF7}\1.0\0\win32
Default value: C:\WINDOWS\PCHealth\HelpCtr\Binaries\HelpCtr.exe\1
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\CLASSES\TypeLib\{FC7D9E00-3F9E-11D3-93C000C04F72DAF7}\1.0\HELPDIR
Default value: C:\WINDOWS\PCHealth\HelpCtr\Binaries\HelpCtr.exe\
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\CLASSES\TypeLib\{FC7D9000-3F9E-11D3-93C000C04F72DAF7}\1.0\0\win32
Default Value: C:\WINDOWS\PCHealth\HelpCtr\Binaries\HelpCtr.exe\2
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\CLASSES\TypeLib\{FC7D9000-3F9E-11D3-93C000C04F72DAF7}\1.0\HELPDIR
Default value: C:\WINDOWS\PCHealth\HelpCtr\Binaries\HelpCtr.exe\
Help and Support - Did you know not working...
Delete the following file. C:\WINDOWS\PCHEALTH\HELPCTR\Config\News\newsver.xml
Help and Support - Start Menu Doesn't Work
Go to Start/Run and type in: helpctr -regserver
Help and Support - Text is missing
Some themes can knock out the text in help and switching to another custom theme may not
correct it. Switching back to an original XP theme - so far - will set things right again.
Windows XP Security Patch: Flaw in Windows XP Help and Support Center Could Enable File
Deletion
http://www.microsoft.com/Downloads/Release.asp?ReleaseID=43681
The above patch resolves the "Flaw in Windows XP Help and Support Center Could Enable File
Deletion" vulnerability in Windows XP. Download now to prevent an attacker from deleting files
on another user’s computer, via either a Web site or an e-mail.
Restore winhlp32.exe for XP or XPSP1 (Line 57)

http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Help and Support - Connection
Windows XP Internet Programs Cannot Connect to the Internet Through Broadband Connection
To resolve this behavior, edit the connection settings for the broadband connection to enable
automatic detection:
Start Internet Explorer. Click the Tools menu, and then click Internet Options. Click the
Connections tab.
Under Dial-up and VPN Settings, click the broadband connection, click Settings, and then click
Automatically detect settings .
Click OK .
Hyperlinks Open in Internet Explorer Instead of in Default Browser or Help and Support Center
Help and Support - Remove History (Curt Mueller)
Navigate to: (modify the drive letter accordingly)
C:\Documents and Settings\Curt\Local
Settings\ApplicationData\Microsoft\HelpCtr\HelpSessionHistory.dat
Delete the DAT file and the history is gone. Note: Once done, a new once will be created.
Help and Support Center - hcp:// links
Note: Some come up as undefined, but are still functional (click the word undefined).
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For XP Home:

Go to Start/Run and type in: %windir%\hh.exe ms-its:%windir%\Help\ntcmds.chm::/ntcmds.htm
ms-its:C:\WINDOWS\Help\ntcmds.chm::/ntcmds.htm
For Tools:
ms-its:C:\WINDOWS\Help\ntcmds.chm::/ntcmds_new_tools.htm
For Tasks:
ms-its:C:\WINDOWS\Help\ntcmds.chm::/dos_diffs.htm
HH.Exe
Its possible your CHM file association is corrupt. Click Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this
key:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\chm.file\shell\open\command
The Default value for this entry should be: "C:\WINDOWS\hh.exe" %1
Next, go to:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.chm
The Default value for this entry should be: chm.file. To modify a value, double click on the
Default entry and enter the values as shown.
Hiberfil - Remove Hibernation File
If you do not use hibernation, make sure you do not have it enabled, which reserves disk space
equal to your RAM. If you have a hidden file on the root directory of your C-drive called
hiberfil.sys, hibernation is enabled. To remove that file, go to Control Panel, select Performance
and Maintenance, Power Options, Hibernate tab, and uncheck the Enable hibernation box.
Hibernate
To hibernate manually, select Start, Turn Off Computer, then click the Hibernate button. To set
your system to hibernate after it has been idle for a certain amount of time, select Power Options
inside the Control Panel (in Category view, select Performance and Maintenance, then select
Power Options). On the Power Schemes tab, choose a time next to "System hibernates," then click
OK.
Hibernate - Differences Between Hibernate and Standby
Hibernation
Hibernation, which reduces the start time, saves the complete state of the computer and turns off
the power. When you resume from hibernation the BIOS performs the typical Power On Self Test
(POST), and then reads the hibernation file, Hiberfil.sys, to restore the state of the computer.
Everything that was running when you put the computer in hibernation is restored.
Standby
In standby, the computer slows down and uses less electrical power. Programs continue to run in
the background although the computer may appears to be off. The computer "wakes up" when it
detects user input. With some computers, you can
press the power button to wake up the computer.

Note: If your computer experiences a power outage during standby, all work that you have not
saved is lost because the computer is still running in the background.
Hibernate Setting Missing
Click on the start button and select turn off computer. Then hold down the shift key and the
hibernate button will be shown. Click it and your computer will enter into hibernation.
Cannot Shut Down, Restart, Log Off, Stand By, or Hibernate
Troubleshooting Hibernate & Standby Issues for Windows XP
Computer Does Not Resume When You Press a Key on Your USB Keyboard
Returning from Hibernation Sets the Inactivity Timer to Five Minutes
Tip: When you try to put your computer into Hibernate or Suspend mode while the system is
writing data to a compact
disc (CD), the computer may not enter Hibernate or Suspend mode. You may receive the
following error message
(or a similar one):
The device driver for the '%device name%' device is preventing the machine from entering
hibernation/suspend. Please close all applications and try again. If the problem persists, you may
need to update this driver.
You receive neither an informational message that the system is writing to a CD nor an error
message that offers you the choice of stopping the CD write process or waiting until the process is
complete.
This behavior occurs because you cannot put a computer into Hibernate or Suspend mode while
the system is writing to a CD. To work around this behavior, wait until the CD write operation is
complete before you try to put the computer into Hibernate or Suspend mode.
Because the computer has already started to enter Hibernate or Suspend mode, some devices may
already be turned off. For example, a USB mouse or scanner may be offline until you complete
the Hibernate or Suspend process.
Hidden Files Message: These files are hidden or system files
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\WebView\Bar
ricadedFolders
Once there locate the folder that you want to turn the protection back on. Right click on them and
select Modify
Change the value to 1. Reboot your computer.
Hidden Folders
Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/View/Show Hidden Files and Folders. Right click the
folder to be hidden/Sharing and Security/General Tab/Hidden/Apply Changes to.../
History - Clear

IE/Tools/Internet Options/General Tab/Clear History
IE/Tools/Internet Options/Content/AutoComplete
Under Use AutoComplete for, click to clear the Web Addresses check box, and then click OK.
Click the Advanced tab, click to clear the Use inline AutoComplete check box in the Browsing
section (if this check box has been selected). Click OK
Clear Recent Files (Typed URL's, Recent Documents, Common Dialog, Search Assistant and
Media Player)
How to Prevent the MRU List of File Names from Appearing (Pro Version)
NOTE : After you complete this procedure, the MRU list does not appear in Windows Explorerstyle dialog boxes; however, this list is not removed from the registry.
Log on as the user. Click Start, and then click Run. Type gpedit.msc, and then click OK. In the left
pane under User Configuration, expand Administrative Templates, expand Windows
Components , expand Windows Explorer, and then click Common Open File Dialog. In the right
pane, double-click Hide the dropdown list of recent files. Click Enabled, and then click OK. Click
File, and then click Exit.
How to Prevent the MRU List of File Names from Appearing (Home Version)
Log on as the user. Click Start, and then click Run. Type regedit, and then click OK. Locate and
then click the following key in the registry:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Comdlg32
NOTE : If the Comdlg32 key does not exist, follow these steps:
Click the Policies key. On the Edit menu, point to New, and then click Key. Type comdlg32, and
then press ENTER.
On the Edit menu, point to New , and then click DWORD Value. Type nofilemru, and then press
ENTER. On the Edit menu, click Modify. Type 1, and then click OK. On the File menu, click
Exit.
The MRU lists for Windows Explorer-style dialog boxes are stored by file type for each user in
the following registry key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\ComDlg32\O
penSaveMRU
History - Not Being Saved
McAfee gave this solution to the bug where VirusScan 6 stops your Internet Explorer History file
working. Hope it is of some help:
Open VirusScan console
Select "Pick a task..."
Select "Change my VirusScan settings"
Select "Configure VShield background scanning"
Select "Customise your VShield settings"

Select the "Internet Filter" icon from the icons down the left hand side On the "Detection" tab, in
the 'Applet filters' section, remove the tick next to "ActiveX Controls".
Home and Pro - Differences
Windows XP Professional include unlike Home Edition the follow features: SMP support,
Roaming user profiles, Remote desktop, Access control, Encrypting file system, Offline files and
folders, Remote installation service, Windows server domain support, Group policy, Software
installation and maintenance, and Multi-lingual user interface support (add-on).
Differences Between Home and Pro
What is the difference between Home Edition and Professional?
Home Page - Change
If the feature is disabled (greyed out), go to Doug Knox's site and download this script:
http://www.dougknox.com/security/scripts_desc/nosethomepage.htm. Usage: Download
nosethomepage.vbs and save this file to your hard drive. Navigate to where you saved it and
double click the file. The VB Script file will check for the appropriate value and if not found will
create it. You will be notified whether the option is enabled or disabled.
To manually make the change: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Control
Panel\HomePage
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main] "Start Page"
Home Page Hijacking
If the Tabs have been removed from Internet Explorer/Tools/Internet Options and/or you receive a
restriction warning message, run this edit (or from line 268 here). It will restore all tabs and lift
the restriction.
Check your settings here: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Control
Panel\HomePage
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\Start Page
IE/Tools/Internet Options/General/Home Page/Address. If the feature is disabled (greyed out),
download this script. Lock Home Page: reg file Unlock Home Page: reg file
Ever downloaded a 'Free' program only to find out it was Spyware? (Banner Advertiser
Supported) Or even worse, many will hide the Spyware functions and not tell you. At the time of
this release there were 762 known Spyware programs and Spy Chaser lists them and lets you enter
a program name to see if it's on this list.
Many of those programs don't uninstall the Spyware even after uninstalling the main program
leaving files on your system and entries in the registry you might never get rid of. For the list:
http://camtech2000.net/Pages/SpyChaser.html

Browser Hijacking

Browser Hijacker Blaster [recommended]
Guard-IE
IE-Spyad
Spyware Blaster
Settings Sentry [From the maker of Spyblocker]

Fixing a hijack
Any of the products below will completely remove most hijackers, unless it is one which has just
started spreading.
Spybot S&D [recommended]
Ad-aware
Aluria Spyware Eliminator
HijackThis
StartPage Guard 1.3
http://www.pjwalczak.com/spguard/index.php
How to Block Comet Cursor in Internet Explorer 5 and 6
http://tech.tln.lib.mi.us/blockcc.htm
Spyware
http://www.simplythebest.net/info/spyware.html
Restrict Web Sites from Installing Software
These restrictions allow you to block unwanted web sites from downloading software onto your
system. This can be useful in disabling the installation of some common "cursor" programs.
Open your registry and find the key below. Start/Run/Regedit
Create a new sub-key for each site you want to block, naming it based on the top-level domain for
the site. For example to block nameofsite.com you would create a new sub-key called:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\InternetSettings\
ZoneMap\Domains\
nameofsite.com. Under the sub-key create a new DWORD value called "*" and set it to equal
"4".
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet
Settings\ZoneMap\Domains
Value Name: *
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (4 = restricted)
Restart Internet Explorer for the change to take effect.

Note: This setting can also be applied on a user-by-user basis by modifying the same key under
the HKEY_CURRENT_USER hive.
Home Page Hijacking - "Has your Browser Been Hijacked?"
Spybot searches your system for so-called spyware, adware and similar threats to your privacy
and security.
Prevent Spyware from Being Installed (Line 116)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
You can accidentally pick up objectionable PC files from the Internet! ContentAudit provides a
way to safely detect unwanted files. Content Audit is free, safely scans for unwanted content and
has an online checker that works in minutes.
Pornography - Clear unwanted files by Content Audit
http://www.contentwatch.com/audit/index.php?cid=260;9;0
IE-SPYAD: Restricted Sites List for Internet Explorer
http://www.staff.uiuc.edu/~ehowes/resource.htm#IESPYAD
Net Nanny, the world's leading parental control software, provides responsible adults with the
broadest set of Internet safety tools available today. http://www.netnanny.com/index.html
With Kids Passport, you can choose whether a participating Kids Passport Web site can collect,
use, or disclose your child's personal information. http://kids.passport.net/?lc=1033
To learn more about the Kids Passport service, please read the .NET Passport Kids Privacy
Statement.
http://www.passport.net/consumer/kidsprivacypolicy.asp?lc=1033
Hot Fixes - View Which Hot Fix Patches Have Been Installed
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\ CurrentVersion\Hotfix.
Periodically Microsoft releases Hot Fix's to patch bugs in Windows and other products, this key
contains information about which Hot fix's have been installed.
Some of the Hotfixes (Mostly security updates) do not have an uninstall feature, these will not
appear in the Add and Remove list. If a Hotfix does appear in the Add and Remove list then it can
be uninstalled just like any other program. If you uninstall the Hotfix, you will lose the benefits of
that patch. This should only be done if you can determine that you are experiencing negative
effects from the particular Hotfix.
If you simply do not want them to appear in the Add and Remove list and you are sure that you
will not need the uninstall option, you can remove items from that list by using a registry tweak.
Go to Start, Run, type in REGEDIT and press OK. This will open the registry editor. Navigate to
the following key.
HKEY CURRENT USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall

Expand this branch and look at the list. The Hotfixes are all listed by a "Q" number that
corresponds to the entry in the Add and Remove list. Make sure that you back up each Key before
deleting it. Select the key and then select File/Export and include the Q number in the name of the
file. Right click the entries you want to remove and select Delete.
Hotmail - Create Shortcut
This tweak can be used to create a shortcut directly to your Hotmail e-mail account on your
desktop.
Right-click on your desktop and create a new shortcut. Set the target to:
%windir%\System32\rundll32.exe
"%ProgramFiles%\Internet Explorer\hmmapi.dll",OpenInboxHandler
Hotmail - Slow after Disabling/Removing Messenger
This will prevent Messenger from loading when you access your account via the Hotmail web
page, it will also prevent the delay when Messenger has been removed or disabled.
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Messenger.MsgrObject. Right click on the Messenger.MsgrObject
key and select rename. Rename it to Messenger.MsgrObjectold.
How To
How To Articles for Windows XP
HTTP, FTP and Other Web Prefixes
Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT Go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\URL\Prefixes
In the right pane, you will see values named www, ftp, gopher, mosaic and others. This is where
Windows interprets addresses such as www.msn.com, ftp.microsoft.com and adds the appropriate
http:// or ftp:// portion of the URL. You can add your own definitions. An example would be your
personal web site.
Say the URL is http://johnsmith.freewebsites.com. You wouldn't be able to type in
johnsmith.freewebsites.com in the address bar of IE, as IE wouldn't know how to translate
johnsmith. Add a new String value to the above key, named johnsmith and set the value to http://
Now, IE will be able to translate johnsmith.freewebsites.com and add the http:// portion
automatically.

~
I
~

IBM
IBM Thinkpad A30 May Not Correctly Enter Suspend Mode and the LCD Back Light May Not
Turn Off
Icons
Professional XP style icons for use in websites, software, desktops and web based applications.
http://www.icongalore.com
Icons - Adjust Vertical Spacing
Depending on your desktop resolution, a certain number of icons fit in each auto-arranged column
down the screen -- for example, if your resolution is set to 800 by 600 pixels, 7 icons fit in each
column. Want to fit more without changing your resolution? Adjust your icon spacing.
Right-click the desktop and select Properties. In the Display Properties dialog box, click the
Appearance tab, then click the Advanced button. Click the down arrow under Item and select Icon
Spacing (Vertical). Decrease the Size, click OK, then click Apply to see the result on screen. (Tip:
On our system, going from the default 43 to 39 squeezed 8 icons into each column.) Repeat these
steps until you're happy with the result, then click OK to keep the change.
Icons - Change (To change the icon used for specific drives in Explorer) Start/Run/ Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE/SOFTWARE/Microsoft/Windows/CurrentVersion/Explorer
Create a key called DriveIcons. Within DriveIcons, create another key with the drive letter you
want to change (..\DriveIcons\K). Create another key within the drive letter key called
DefaultIcon. Set the default value equal to the icon you want to use. If you have a file that has
more than one icon in it, such as a DLL file, use the standard C:\full_path\icon_file.dll,x
<file:///C:/full_path/icon_file.dll,x>) where x is the number of the icon within the file
icon_file.dll.
You can change a hard drive's icon in any 32-bit Windows platform by including a valid
Autorun.inf file in that drive's root directory. Windows Desktop Update presents another way to
change a hard drive's icon. To change the icon for drive C:, insert the name and (optional) icon
index number of a valid icon file as the (Default) value for this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\explorer\driveico
ns\C\DefaultIcon. Replace C with a different letter to change another drive's icon. Explained
here.
Icons - Change Size
This setting will let you resize them to suit your desktop preference. Go to: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\WindowMetrics
Value Name: Shell Icon Size
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value)
Value Data: Size in Pixels (Default = 32)
Create a new value named 'Shell Icon Size' and set the value, or modify the existing value, to
equal the size of your icons in pixels. Smaller values = smaller icons!

Icons - Keep in Place after Reboot
Normally when Windows exits it saves the desktop configuration, including icon location,
appearance etc. This setting disables these changes from being saved, this is useful in both a
secure environment.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Value Name: NoSaveSettings
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = disabled, 1 = enabled)
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value called 'NoSaveSettings' set the value to
equal '1' to enable the restriction. Exit your registry, you may need to restart for the changes to
take effect. Note: You want it set to 0.
Icons - Lock on Desktop
"In Windows 95/98/NT/2000/ME/XP you can lock down the position of the Desktop icons using a
couple of files from the MS Windows NT 4.0 Resource Kit. Download Layout.dll here.
ftp://ftp.zdnet.com/wsources/0598/layout.zip
Place it here: C:\Winnt\System32 then double click the Layout.reg file. You will now have a new
right click option.
Icons - Fast Path to Icons
Call up all your desktop icons without leaving whatever applications you have currently open.
Just click on Start/Run
and enter a period (.) without parenthesis, then ok.
Icons - Hide Desktop Icons
Want a quick way to hide all the icons on your desktop--for example, if you've got a great photo
displayed there? Right click the desktop, select Arrange Icons By, then select Show Desktop Icons
(to deselect this option). To get your icons back, simply re-select the same option.
Icons - Missing in C Drive
The Folders Bar in Windows Explorer Does Not Contain Any Icons
Icons - Notification Area
Windows XP provides a number of options for customizing what Microsoft has decided to call the
"Notification Area" of your Taskbar (the area that displays the clock and a number of icons). By
default, Windows XP hides any inactive icons here. But if you prefer, you can choose to hide (or
show) individual icons all the time.
For example, suppose you want to keep the Volume and Synchronization Manager icons out of
site, regardless of how often you use them. Right click a blank area of the Taskbar and select
Properties. Under Notification area, click Customize. Alternatively, Right click a blank area of the
Notifications Area and select Customize Notifications.

One at a time, select the Volume and Synchronization Manager icons, then Right click the down
arrow next to it and select Always hide (in the same way, you could select any icon and choose the
"Always show" option). Click OK twice, and now, an arrow appears on the edge of the
Notifications Area. Click it to display the hidden icons.
Icons - Notification Area - Chevron Missing
For some users, setting the very first icon to Always Hide, restores the arrow.
Icons - Notification Area - Missing
Three methods/workarounds: Log off and Log back on, password protect your account or...
Right click My Computer/Manage. Expand Services and Applications then Click on Services. A
list of services appears in the right column. Scroll down to the SSDP and uPnP Service. Right
click each, choose properties. Change the text next to "Startup type:" to Disabled.
Or if you are running XP SP1 uninstall UPnP from Add/Remove Windows Components.
Hide or Show Inactive Icons in the Notification Area (Line 53)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Remove Past Items From the Notification Area (Line 53)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Once done, Open Task Manager, click the Processes tab, click Explorer.exe, and then click End
Process. In Task Manager, click File, click New Task, type explorer, and then click OK.
After you have all icons in place, run this edit:
Save Settings on Exit (Line 54)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the Regedit: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting
Edit.
PS Tray Factory will allow you:
- hide low-activity icons from a system tray into menu;
- hide inactive icons from a system tray into menu;
- get fast access to the hidden icons with the help of hot keys;
- change the order of icons in the menu;
- hide from the menu seldom used icons;
- restore icons in system tray area at crash or restarting Explorer.exe.
http://www.pssoftlab.com/download/pstrayf.zip
Icons - Remove and Restore
This article explains how to remove and restore the default Desktop icons such as Inbox,
Windows Internet Explorer, and Recycle Bin. How to Remove and Restore Default Desktop
Icons and Windows System Tray Icons.

To delete an icon from your desktop step through the sub-keys until you find the key representing
the icon you want to remove. Delete the sub-key and the icon should disappear after your press F5
to refresh the desktop.
To add an icon to your desktop create a new sub-key named using the CLSID from the table
below and the icon should appear after your press F5 to refresh the desktop. Below are a list of
common IDs: Description CLSID
Ad {D
mi 20
nist EA
rati 4E
ve 1To 395
ols 711d
2A4
0B0C
502
052
415
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ase D9
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42
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69A2
E4080
02
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}
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ol 2O
Pan2O
el 3A
EA
1O

69A2
DD
080
02b
303
09d
}
Fonts

{D20EA4E1-3957-11d2-A40B-0C5020524152}

History

{FF393560-C2A7-11CF-BFF4-444553540000}

Inbox

{00020D75-0000-0000-C000-000000000046}

Microsoft Network

{00028B00-0000-0000-C000-000000000046}

My Computer

{20D04FE0-3AEA-1069-A2D808002B30309D}

My Documents

{450D8FBA-AD25-11D0-98A80800361B1103}

Network Computers

{1f4de370-d627-11d1-ba4f-00a0c91eedba}

Network Connections

{7007ACC7-3202-11D1-AAD200805FC1270E}

Printers and Faxes

{2227A280-3AEA-1069-A2DE08002B30309D}

Programs Folder

{7be9d83c-a729-4d97-b5a7-1b7313c39e0a}

Recycle Bin

{645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E}

Scanners and Cameras

{E211B736-43FD-11D1-9EFB-0000F8757FCD}

Scheduled Tasks

{D6277990-4C6A-11CF-8D8700AA0060F5BF}

Start Menu Folder

{48e7caab-b918-4e58-a94d-505519c795dc}

Temporary Internet Files

{7BD29E00-76C1-11CF-9DD000A0C9034933}

Web Folders

{BDEADF00-C265-11d0-BCED00A0C90AB50F}

Note: Not all icons can be successfully placed on your desktop. Right-click on the icon to display
the options available.
Key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Desktop
\NameSpace
Icons - Remove Text
Transparent text under icons - Right click the Icon/Rename and type in: ALT+0160
Icons - Rename
With the icon you want to rename selected, press the F2 key. Type the new name, then press Enter.

Icons - Rename Desktop (System) Icons
Rename Your Desktop (System) Icons
Icons - Rename Shortcuts
If you have shortcuts saved in your Quick Launch bar that uses favicons and they revert... This
workaround will help: Save each as (ex) google.ico, msn.ico, etc. Right click
each/properties/change icon/browse/ok/apply.
Icons - Replace with Old Style
Bring back old Desktop icons. New users of WinXP may wonder what happened to the My
Documents, Internet Explorer, Network Neighborhood, and My Computer icons that were planted
on the Desktop in earlier Windows versions. Most of these icons are still available for the
Desktop, but they are buried in the Start menu and other menus. A few twists of the Registry keys
will unlock them.
The values that turn back My Documents, Internet Explorer, My Computer, and Network
Neighborhood icons all are in:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\HideDeskto
pIcons\NewStartPanel
To restore the My Documents icon, right-click the {450D8FBA-AD25-11D0-98A80800361B1103} value, modify the Value Data from 1 to 0, and click OK.
To restore the Internet Explorer icon, right-click {871C5380-42A0-1069-A2EA-08002B30309D},
modify the Value Data from 1 to 0, and click OK.
To restore the My Network Neighborhood icon, right-click {208D2C60-3AEA-1069-A2D708002B30309D}, modify the Value Data from 1 to 0, and click OK.
To restore the My Computer icon, right-click the {20DD04FE0-3AEA-1069-A2D808002B30309D} value, modify the data value from 1 to 0, and click OK.
Icons - Repair View
TweakUI Icon Fix - Repairs the View 16 & 32 (Line 4)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the Regedit: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting
Edit.
Icon - Titles
This setting controls whether the icon titles should be word wrapped over multiple lines or shown
in one longer line. Go to: Start/Run/Regedit. You may need to create the key if it does not already
exist.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\WindowMetrics

Value Name: IconTitleWrap
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value)
Value Data: (1 = Enabled, 0 = Disabled)
Create a new String value, or modify the existing value, called 'IconTitleWrap' and edit the value
according to the settings above. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows
for the change to take effect.
Icons - Transparent
Start/Settings/Control Panel/System/Advanced/Performance/Settings/Visual Effects/"Use drop
shadows for icon labels on the Desktop". If this still doesn't do the trick, right-click the desktop,
point to Arrange Icons By and make sure that Lock Web Items on Desktop is un-checked.
Icons - True Color
Windows supports true-color icons (16-bit/65,000 colors or higher) for users with displays that
can support them. However, there are two obstacles to using them on your system. First, you need
to turn on Windows' support for true-color icons (which may not be enabled on your system).
Secondly, you need to be able to create these icons (most icon editors only support 16-colors).
Here's what you need to do:
To enable true-color icons:
First of all, your display color-depth needs to be set to 16-bit or higher. Double-click on the
Display icon in Control Panel, and click on the Settings tab. Adjust the Color Palette to your
liking. Note: Your video card or monitor may not support the higher color depths necessary to use
true-color icons.
Next, choose the Effects tab, and make sure the Show Icon Using All Possible Colors option is
checked.
Press Ok when you're done.
If your Show Icon Using All Possible Colors option is grayed out, open the Registry Editor,
navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop, and change the
UserPreferencesMask value to 9c 00 00 80.
To create true-color icons:
Create a Windows Bitmap (.BMP), 32 pixels by 32 pixels, any color depth, and save it to a
directory on your hard disk.
In the properties window (right-click on the icon) of any shortcut, choose the Program tab, click
Change Icon, and specify your new .BMP file.
Icons - Shell32: %SystemRoot%\System32\shell32.dll (IT Library)
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ICQ - AdKiller
Maximize your bandwidth with this free ad-blocking tool. It speeds up your surfing by removing
banner ads and other advertisements from Web pages. It supports both Microsoft Internet Explorer
and Netscape. Download here.
ICQ - Ad Banner (Remove)
To remove the flashing banners at the bottom of ICQ. Simply open the ICQ folder with windows
explorer. C:\Program Files\ICQ and Delete the file "ICQHttp.dll". Do not delete "ICQHttp_.dll"
(note the underscore). Re-start ICQ.
ICQ - Connection Problems
The Problem is that when XP loads, ICQ pops up and says "no connection detected". This occurs
despite the fact that 'Net Detect Agent' and 'automatically connect to internet when no connection
present' are checked.
1. Go to the Group Policy Editor (Start/Run/gpedit.msc)
2. Under 'User Configuration', click "Administrative Templates"
3. Click 'System'-> 'Logon'
4. In the window on the right, double-click on "Run these programs at user logon"
5. Make sure 'Enabled' is checked, then click 'Show'
6. You'll now want to add ICQ's Net Agent Detect to the list (which is probably empty unless
you've already been in here).
To do this, first locate on your HD the exact location of 'NDetect.exe'.
Example: C:\Internet\ICQ\NDetect.exe
Click 'Add', then type the filename & path of the above file
7. Click 'OK', 'OK', and 'OK' again to exit.
8. Now make sure that there are NO traces of ICQ or Net Detect Agent in your Programs->Startup
folder. If there are,
delete them from Startup.
9. Start up ICQ, and go to 'Connections'(Main->Preferences->Connections->General tab). Under
'Launch' make sure
'Launch ICQ at startup' is NOT checked.
10. Click 'OK'. Disconnect from Internet if connected. REBOOT.
If everything goes properly, you should now see the Net Detect Agent appear in the system tray as
WinXP starts up the desktop. When you connect to the Net, it magically disappears.. to be
replaced with the ICQ 'flower' which will shortly find a connection.
ICQ - Send files and Firewall Workaround
1. First you must limit the range of port that ICQ use for send. In ICQ, click on Main, Preferences,
User tab, click on 'Not

using proxy' and choose 'Use the following TCP listen port for incoming event from 1030 to
1030'. (use port number of
your choice, 1030 is only for example)
2. The go into the Control Panel/Network Connections
2. Right click on your connection and select Properties
3. Left click the Advanced Tab
4. Left click the Settings Button
5. Under Services, left click the Add Button
6. For description type "ICQ", for Name of IP put the name that identifies your system with your
ISP OR your IP if it is
static.
7. Both external and internal ports are 1030 by default and TCP. (depends of which port you set at
beginning)
8. Click OK and Restart.
ICQ - Removing the 'From ICQ' Favorites Folder
Deleting this folder doesn't usually do any harm, however ICQ will keep bringing it back, which
can be annoying if you don't want it in your Favorites menu.
To permanently prevent it from coming back, you need to make a change inside ICQ. Start ICQ if
it isn't already running and find your way to the Preferences panel. From there, select the Events
tab. Different versions of ICQ work in different ways, but hopefully you should be able to find
what you're after in here somewhere.
If you can't find an option in ICQ and it's still annoying you to see the folder there, you can
always right-click it, choose Properties… and select the Hidden attribute to hide it!
ICS - Internet Connection Sharing
Troubleshooting Internet Connection Sharing in Windows XP
http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/ics/ics.htm
http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/ics/ics_troubleshoot.htm
Troubleshooting Internet Connection Sharing in Windows XP
Windows XP Internet Connection Sharing
Dial-Up Connection in ICS Does Not Prompt to Disconnect
Resources for Troubleshooting ICS in Windows XP
Dial-Up Connection in ICS Does Not Prompt to Disconnect
Using Internet Connection Sharing with User Profiles
The Redirector Failed to Determine the Connection Type
Domain Policy to Stop the Use of ICS or ICF Stops Services
Microsoft Knowledge Base Articles - Dealing with Internet Connection Sharing
Tip: To disable ICS go to: Administrative Tools/Component Services/Internet Connection
Firewall. Right
click/properties. Change Startup type to Disabled. Close/Reboot.
Index.Dat - AutoComplete Won't Clear

When you go to the Tools menu then Internet Options then Content then click the AutoComplete
button there's an option to "clear forms". This is designed to stop Internet Explorer from guessing
the correct URL when you type it. You may not want it to do this if it suggests some illicit site you
may have visited.
However some people may find that this doesn't work. So here's how to overcome the problem.
There's file on your computer called index.dat. It allows Microsoft Windows to find Web files
faster. It is an index containing names of files that have been stored in the "Temporary Internet
Files" folder. These files are usually either Web pages that have been visited using your computer
or images viewed on the Web that appear on those visited Web pages.
In Windows XP:
Click START, then Search then "For Files and Folders". Next click "All Files and Folders" then
type in index.dat in the "All or part of the file name" box. Under the "Look in" option choose "My
Computer". Then click "More advanced options" and check off "Search system folders" as well as
"Search hidden files and folders".
To view or delete the contents of the index.dat files on your computer, you can use a free program
called Spider 1.16. It can be downloaded from here.
Index.Dat - Auto History Kill and Download.
Index.Dat Files
[Delta2] deletes the folders the index.dat files are in and restores any saved cookies each time you
start or reboot your computer. Download here.
Index.Dat Files and Primary I.E. Folders - Reference
The 'Index.dat' file within the Cache folder is used to contain URL names, date and time stamps,
and pointers to the actual cache files which are spread among the four to eight cache sub-folders.
These sub-folders are named with randomly-generated 8-character names.
The 'Index.dat' file within the Cookie folder is used to contain URL names, date and time stamps,
and pointers to the actual Cookie files which are stored within this same folder.
The 'Index.dat' file within the upper level of the History folder is used to store 'Visited URL'
names, date and time stamps. This is the data used by I.E. for its AutoComplete function and
controlling the highlighting of imbedded links on the displayed Web pages. Download the
removal tool here.
There is one 'mshist...' file for each day of history that you have instructed I.E. to retain. The daily
history is stored in the subordinate 'Index.dat' files.
Indexing Service - Eluent
Indexing Service is a Windows XP feature which supports rapid searching of file contents and
properties across many thousands of files. Indexing Service provides this capability by extracting
information from files and storing it in indexes organized for fast searching. These indexes are
stored in units called catalogs.

The default catalog is called System, and it indexes your local hard drives. You can create
additional catalogs, delete existing catalogs, add and remove folders from catalogs, and perform
other management tasks through the Computer Management Console, where Indexing Service
appears under Services and Applications.
Once you've configured Indexing Service to your liking, it works in the background indexing your
files and requires little if any further attention from you. While the initial catalogs may take a
while to build, once built, we find that this background processing is sufficiently non-intrusive
that it's often acceptable to leave Indexing Service on all the time. (Note that Indexing Service is
not enabled by default, so you must enable it yourself.)
Indexing Service - Improve Performance By Disabling Indexing Service - InfiniSource
The Indexing Service in Windows XP Indexes your files presumably to shorten the time needed to
search your hard drive if you are looking for a specific file or part of a phrase inside a file.
By default, this service is set to manual (so it won't start), but when you do a search on your
computer, there's that little question asking you if you want to make future searches faster.... so
you could have enabled it (it will tell you that you are going to enable the Indexing service when
you choose this).
Anyway, having run it for a while, it was one of the first things I decided switched off, and I
haven't noticed any delay when I do my searches (and I presume that with my C:\ drive holding in
excess of 106,000 files in over 2,700 folders I'm not a typical user!), but I did notice the
improvement of having more CPU cycles available at all times.
To disable the Indexing service, open Computer Management from Administrative Tools (on the
Start menu if you enabled this, or from the Control Panel), select Services and Applications,
double click Services, and find the Indexing Service.
Double click to bring up the Properties window, and click Stop to let Windows stop the service.
Then from the Status type drop down box select Disabled.
HOW TO: Use Computer Management in Windows XP
Indexing Service - Plain English Computing
Windows XP comes with an Indexing Service which boosts the efficiency of searches. When
enabled, the Indexing Service works in the background, extracting the contents and the properties
of documents and organizing them in a way streamlined for fast searching.
If your computer strains under the weight of Windows XP, you may want to keep the Indexing
Service switched off, as it slows your system somewhat. If you’d like to have faster searches, then
turn it on.
You can switch the Indexing Service on and off, and adjust its properties, via the Search
Companion:
1. Open the Search Companion and click Change Preferences.
2. Click the With Indexing Service option (if Indexing Service is already enabled, the option
will be Without Indexing Service).
3. Select the options you want and click OK.

Indexing Service - Turning it On
Once you turn Index Server ON, it will take some time before the index is created. Index Server
runs automatically when your system is otherwise idle, so how long depends upon how you use
your system.
In order for the index to remain updated, it's a good idea to leave the computer on unattended
overnight, or at least for a couple of hours, on a regular basis. Checking & Managing Index
Server.
Internet
Are downloads taking too long to load--even with a high-speed connection? Does your ISP say
"It's not our problem."? PC Pitstop's Internet Connection Center can help. This is the place to
start to diagnose and hopefully fix connection problems for your home or office system. Our
series of diagnostics will help you determine if you're getting optimal performance from your
connection. The tools will also help diagnose whether the problem is your modem, your PC, the
site you're visiting or your ISP. More information here: Internet Connection Center
PC Pitstop Download Bandwidth Test
This bandwidth test works by measuring the time it takes to download a block of random text
embedded in a Web page. The JavaScript in the page reads the clock time just before and just after
the block of nearly random text. The text block is generated at our server when your computer
requests the page. The text block will not display on your computer, since each line is enclosed in
HTML comment tags. More information here.
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DSL bandwidth test.
This measures the time it takes your computer to download a 200 KB block of text.
T1/Cable Modem bandwidth test.

This measures the time it takes your computer to download a 500 KB block of text.
T3 and satellite bandwidth test.
This measures the time it takes your computer to download a 1,000 KB block of text.
Extreme bandwidth test.
This measures the time it takes your computer to download a 5,000 KB block of text. Do not
try this test using a modem! (It will tie up your system for a loooonnnggg time.)
Internet Connection Firewall Troubleshooting
Windows XP Internet Connection Firewall
IE - Internet Explorer
Adding sites to the Allow list (after SP2) or wanting to copy the list for other profiles:
Go to - Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\New Windows\Allow
Once there: Name = (starting with www) Url, Type: Binary
To copy/save: Right click, Export.
Internet Explorer Issues, Tips, & Auto-Dialing and Auto-Disconnect Options
Internet Explorer Support Center
Tip: Clicking on a link opens in a new window and is empty: Start/Run and type in: REGSVR32
URLMON.DLL. Ok.
Then go to: IE/Tools/Internet Options/Programs/Reset Web Settings.
Tip: Re-install Internet Explorer - Go to Start/Run, and type : rundll32.exe
setupapi,InstallHinfSection DefaultInstall 132
%windir%\inf\ie.inf. Or: Run Command - Reinstalling Internet Explorer (Line 29).
How to Reinstall or Repair Internet Explorer and Outlook Express in Windows XP
If you receive this error message: Setup has detected a newer version of Internet Explorer already
installed on this system. Setup cannot continue. To work around this issue and reinstall the same
customized Internet Explorer 6 installation package a second time, run this edit then reinstall:
Enable Reinstallation of Internet Explorer or OE (Line 114)
Once running this edit, rename the CatRoot2 folder and then run the ie.inf. Or use this run
command:
Go to Start/Run, and type: rundll32.exe setupapi,InstallHinfSection DefaultInstall 132 %windir
%\inf\ie.inf
If you received this error message: The software you are installing has not passed Windows Logo
testing to verify its compatibility with Windows XP. This software will not be installed. Contact
your system administrator.

Rename the CatRoot2 folder (Windows\System32\CatRoot2) and then run (right click/install) the
ie.inf (Windows\inf\ie.inf).
Tip: No Home Page - Right Click Internet Explorer Shortcut/Properties/Shortcut Tab. Place this
In the target field:
"C:\Program Files\Internet Explorer\IEXPLORE.EXE" –nohome
Tip: Get MailTo Hyperlinks in IE to Open OE - Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/File
Types. Highlight
URL:MailTo Protocol/Advanced/Edit. Under Application used to perform action it should
read:
"C:\PROGRAM FILES\OUTLOOK EXPRESS\MSIMN.EXE" /mailurl:%1
Tip: Speed up Internet Explorer - Find your IE icon and right click on it. Select properties and
then click on the Shortcut
tab. In the Target line at the very end, add -nohome to get a speed boost.
Tip: Speed up Browsing in Internet Explorer - Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\RemoteCo
mputer\NameSpace
In the right pane find: {D6277990-4C6A-11CF-8D87-00AA0060F5BF} Value and delete it.
Tip: Add Internet Explorer Toolbar Buttons - 1. Go to Start/Run, 2. Type in gpedit.msc, 3. Go to
user configuration Windows Settings - IE Maintenance - Browser UI. Then click on browser toolbar
customizations.
Tip: The option to save as jpeg/jpg is not available: Clear your Temporary Internet Files, then try
again.
Go to IE/Internet Options/Delete Files. Also in Settings change the amount to 40 MB. This will
help in preventing the index files from becoming overloaded.
If that doesn't help check your settings here: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.jpg
For Content Type, it should read "image/jpeg".
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.jpeg
For content Type, it should read: image/jpeg
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.gif
For Content Type is should read "image/gif"
If it already set to that, go to Start, Run and type in: regsvr32 /i shdocvw.dll, regsvr32 /i
shdoc401.dll,regsvr32 webvw.dll and regsvr32 thumbvw.dll (for upgrades).
NOTE: If you are using AOL:
This behavior may occur when AOL's graphic compression option is turned on. When this option
is on, the images are saved as the .art file type. Connect to the Internet through AOL, and then

visit the following AOL Web site: www.aol.com. Click My AOL. On the Settings menu, click
Preferences.
In the Preferences dialog box, click Internet Options (WWW). In the Internet Options dialog box,
click to clear the Always Compress Graphics dialog box. Click to select the Never Compress
Graphics dialog box. Click Apply, and then click OK.
Internet Explorer Does Not Save Graphics Files in the Proper Format
You May Be Unable to Save .jpg Files with Microsoft Paint After You Install Office 2000 SR1 or
SP2
IE - Internet Explorer - To Create a Customized Throbber
Create Your Own Throbber for Internet Explorer & Outlook Express in Windows XP
IE - Internet Explorer - To restore the IE logo...
Start/Run/Regedit- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Toolbar. In
the Toolbar key, if you see the BrandBitmap and SmBrandBitmap values on the right, delete them.
Tip: Remove IE/OE Branding
Tip: Change the IE Title Bar Text
Tip: Delete IE Wallpaper - Start/Run/%appdata%\Microsoft\Internet Explorer
IE - Reinstall Internet Explorer
Re-install IE - Go to Start/Run, and type: rundll32.exe setupapi,InstallHinfSection DefaultInstall
132 %windir%\inf\ie.inf
To work around this issue and reinstall the same customized Internet Explorer 6 installation
package a second time, change the IsInstalled (REG_DWORD) value for the Branding component
from 1 to 0 in the following registry key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Active Setup\Installed Components. The
Branding key always begins with a greater than (>) character. Or... Go to:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/downloads/ie6/default.asp
In the download box, select your desired language and click Go. On the next page click the
Internet Explorer 6 link under Download. Save the file to your hard drive and note where you
saved it to:
When the download is complete, click Start, Run, Browse, and browse to the location you saved
the file to. Highlight the IE6SETUP.EXE file and click Open.
In the Run dialog, move the cursor to the end of the command and press the space bar. Copy and
past the following into the Run dialog at the end of the current command: /c:"ie6wzd.exe /d
/s:""#E"""
The #E needs to be replaced by the full path and file name of the IE Setup file. An example
command line would look like this: "C:\Temp\ie6setup.exe" /c:"ie6wzd.exe /d
/s:""C:\Temp\ie6setup.exe"""

Replace C:\Temp in this example with the actual path to the ie6setup.exe file. All parameters must
be in the line and all of the quote characters must be as shown.
Troubleshooting the install:
When using this article the issues that surface are covered below:
How to Reinstall or Repair Internet Explorer and Outlook Express in Windows XP
If you receive this error message: Setup has detected a newer version of Internet Explorer already
installed on this system. Setup cannot continue. To work around this issue and reinstall the same
customized Internet Explorer 6 installation package a second time, run this edit then reinstall:
Enable Reinstallation of Internet Explorer or OE (Line 114)
Once running this edit, rename the CatRoot2 folder and then run the ie.inf. Or use this run
command:
Go to Start/Run, and type: rundll32.exe setupapi,InstallHinfSection DefaultInstall 132 %windir
%\inf\ie.inf
If you received this error message: The software you are installing has not passed Windows Logo
testing to verify its compatibility with Windows XP. This software will not be installed. Contact
your system administrator.
Rename the CatRoot2 folder (Windows\System32\CatRoot2) and then run (right click/install) the
ie.inf (Windows\inf\ie.inf).
Internet Explore Issues, Tips and Fixes
Unable to Install Internet Explorer 6 on Windows XP
How to Reinstall or Repair Internet Explorer and Outlook Express in Windows XP
Tip: Configure Internet Downloads - Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet
Settings. To increase the
number of simultaneous connections that are allowed to 10, follow these steps: On the
Edit menu, click Add Value,
and then add the following registry values:
"MaxConnectionsPer1_0Server"=Dword:0000000a
"MaxConnectionsPerServer"=Dword:0000000a.
Tip: Auto-Disconnect for Internet Explorer - Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\LanmanServer\Parameters In
the right pane,
find Autodisconnect and change the time accordingly.
Tip: Disable the Custom Search Page in Internet Explorer - Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main. Value Name:
Use Custom Search URL,
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value), Value Data: (0 = disabled, 1 = enabled).
Create a new DWORD
value, or modify the existing value, called 'Use Custom Search URL' and edit the value
according to the settings

below. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change
to take effect.
Tip: Disable the "Log on using dial-up connection" Check Box - Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows
NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon. Value Name:
RasDisable, Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value), Value Data: (0 = restriction disabled, 1
= restriction enabled).
Create a new String value, or modify the existing value, called 'RasDisable' and edit the
value according to the
settings below. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the
change to take effect.
Tip: Display Internet Explorer on the Desktop
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\HideDe
sktopIcons\
NewStartPanel. Once there, locate {871C5380-42A0-1069-A2EA-08002B30309D} in
the list on the right.
Right click on it and select Modify. Change the value equal to 0. Reboot your computer.
Tip: Correct Internet Explorer Window Location
Tip: Clear Entries from Tools
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Extensions. Select each
subkey and look at its MenuText value in the right-hand pane. When you locate the menu item,
delete the entire subkey. If you don't find the item, do the same search here:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Extensions.
Tip: Disable The Image Bar In Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.
IE/Tools/Internet Options/Advanced/Multimedia/Uncheck Enable Image Toolbar.
Availability and Description of Internet Explorer 6
A Description of the Changes to the Security Settings of the Web Content Zones in Internet
Explorer 6
Error Message: This Web Page Could Not Be Saved
Error Message: A Previous Program Installation Was Never Completed
How to Change the Internet Search Behavior of Your Browser in Windows XP
How to Manage Cookies in Internet Explorer 6
How to Troubleshoot Java Problems in Internet Explorer
How to Troubleshoot Script Errors in Internet Explorer
Unable to Install Internet Explorer 6 on Windows XP
How to Uninstall Internet Explorer 6
Image Toolbar Does Not Appear Over Image in Internet Explorer
Information About the Unsafe File List in Internet Explorer 6
Pictures Are Not Displayed on Internet Web Sites
Web Page Displays an Image As a Red X or Not at All
Privacy Settings Only Affect Internet Zone

Text May Be Unreadable in Internet Explorer if High Contrast Mode Is Enabled
The Internet Search Results Are Not Displayed in the Search Bar
Unable to Open a Link in New Window in Internet Explorer
Unable to Refresh Web Page That Uses Cookies if Set to Prompt for Cookies
Description of Internet Explorer Security Zones Registry Entries
Internet History Won't Clear
Internet Explorer Keyboard Shortcuts
F4 = Open URL Address/History command line menu
F5 = Reload current web page
F11 = Toggle between full screen (kiosk mode) and windowed screen + menu
ESC = Stop loading of current web page
HOME = Go to top of current web page
END = Go to bottom of current web page
Page down or SPACE = Scroll down one screen at a time
Page up or SHIFT = Scroll up one screen at a time
ALT + Left Arrow = Back to previous web page
ALT + Right Arrow = Forward to next web page
CTRL + B = Open Organize Favorites menu
CTRL + D = Open Add to Favorites menu for current web page
CTRL + H = Open History folder
CTRL + L = Open new web page
CTRL + N = Open new browser window
CTRL + O = Open new (internet) location
CTRL + P = Print current web page or highlighted text
CTRL + R = Reload current web page
CTRL + S = Save current web page to disk
CTRL + W = Close active browser window
Image and Fax Viewer - Prevent Image and Fax Viewer From Stealing Associations
Go to: Start/Run/Regedit and Delete this string:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\SystemFileAssociations\image\ShellEx\ContextMenuHandlers\ShellI
magePreview
@="{e84fda7c-1d6a-45f6-b725-cb260c236066}"
Tip: To manually change the association - Right Click On image file. Choose "open with",
then "choose program"
Select your favorite image viewer program. Check the "always use selected program"
box Click OK.
Tip: Disable Image (Picture) and Fax Viewer - Click Start, Run and enter regsvr32 /u
shimgvw.dll
Note: Using the command REGSVR32 /U SHIMGVW.DLL will prevent you from being able to
change a User's picture in User Accounts. The Change Picture button will not function. You can

re-enable this feature by clicking Start, Run and entering REGSVR32 SHIMGVW.DLL, making
your desired changes, then re-running the command above.
IIS
The Pro installation doesn't install IIS by default. Go to Start->Control Panels->Add/Remove
Programs, and click on "Add Windows Components". IIS will be listed in there.
Increase Shutdown Time For Services to Close Properly
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control. On the Edit menu, click Add
Value. Value Name: WaitToKillServiceTimeout, Data Type: REG_SZ , String: In milli-seconds;
default is 20,000. Ok/Exit/Reboot.
Indexing Service - Disable
Improve Performance By Disabling Indexing Service - The Indexing Service in Windows XP
Indexes your files presumably to shorten the time needed to search your hard drive if you are
looking for a specific file or part of a phrase inside a file.
By default, this service is set to manual (so it won't start), but when you do a search on your
computer, there's that little question asking you if you want to make future searches faster.... so
you could have enabled it (it will tell you that you are going to enable the Indexing service when
you choose this). To Disable, go to:
Administrative Tools/Computer Management/Services and Applications. Double click Services
and find the Indexing Service. Double click/properties/Stop. From the Status Type Box, select
Disabled.
Inst32.Exe
Inst32.exe Causes an Error Message in Windows XP
Install - To Perform a Quick Upgrade
Turn on your computer. Scan for viruses. Insert the Windows XP CD into your computer's CD–
ROM drive. After your computer automatically launches the CD, click Install Windows XP. If
your computer doesn't automatically launch the CD, start Setup manually: Click Start and then
click Run. Type the following command, replacing "d" with the letter assigned to your CD-ROM
drive: d:\setup.exe Press ENTER.
When you're asked to choose the type of installation you want, select Upgrade, and then click
Next. You can upgrade to Windows XP if all of the following are true:
You're already using a previous version of Windows that supports upgrading. These include:
Windows 98 (including Second Edition); Windows Millennium (Me); Windows NT® 4.0 (Service
Pack 6 or later); Windows 2000 Professional; or Windows XP Home Edition. (Windows 95 and
earlier versions do not support upgrade to Windows XP Professional.)
You want to replace your previous operating system with Windows XP Professional. You want to
keep your existing files and personalized settings. If none—or only some—of these are true for

you, perform a new installation. For more information, see New Installation. Review the license
agreement and, if you agree, accept it.
Enter the Product Key from the Windows XP folder. Review the text for performing Dynamic
Update. If you wish to perform Dynamic Update, select Yes, and then click Next. Windows
installation starts. You must have an active Internet connection to perform Dynamic Update.
When the “Welcome to Windows” screen appears, follow the instructions to complete your
upgrade. Go to “Configure Windows XP” for information on setting up user accounts and network
connections.
Install - Repair the Windows XP Installation
Configure your computer to start from the CD-ROM drive. For more information about how to do
this, please refer to your computer's documentation or contact your computer manufacturer.
Insert your Windows XP compact disc (CD) into your CD-ROM drive or DVD-ROM drive, and
then restart your computer. (You can also boot with a Windows 98/Me Startup disk with CD
support and run WINNT.EXE in the I386 folder on the CD). When the "Press any key to boot
from CD" message is displayed on your screen, press a key to start your computer from the
Windows XP CD.
When you see the following message displayed on the Welcome to Setup screen, press ENTER:
To setup Windows XP now, press ENTER. At this point an option to press R to enter the Recovery
Console is displayed. Do not select this option. On the Windows XP Licensing Agreement screen,
press F8 to agree to the license agreement.
Make sure that your current installation of Windows XP (in your case, the one you wish to repair)
is selected in the box, and then press the R key to repair Windows XP. Follow the instructions on
the screen to complete Setup.
Installing & Configuring XP
Learn what steps to take and what computer requirements are necessary when upgrading your
computer to Windows XP. Why you need to activate Windows XP and the steps to take when
activating your copy of Windows XP. More info here.
Installation Problems/Conflicts
Install Windows XP Professional
Install Windows XP Troubleshooter
Installation Issues and Conflicts
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_setup.htm
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_conflicts.htm
Setup Stops Responding (Hangs) During File Copy
Error Msg: Cannot find file: \Windows\System32\hal.dll
Cannot Install Windows XP from a Folder That Is Not Named i386
"NTLDR Is Missing" Error Message When You Upgrade or Install Windows XP Over Windows
95, Windows 98, or Windows Millennium Edition
Troubleshooting Invalid CD Key Error Message During Windows XP Setup

Installing XP
How to Perform an In-Place Upgrade on a Windows XP-Based Computer
How to Move a Windows XP Installation to Different Hardware
Installing XP From DOS
If XP will not install from the CD or if you have a new drive with no operating system on it yet
try these:
Install Windows XP from the hard drive with Windows 98 already installed:
Boot Windows 98, Insert the XP CD into your CD reader, Explore Windows XP through My
Computer
Copy i386 folder to C:\. Go into C:\i386 folder and double click on winnt32.exe to launch the
setup from the hard drive.
Install Windows XP from DOS (with no OS on a new hard drive):
Boot with a Windows 98 Start Up disk, Insert the Windows 98 CD into the CD reader, Run
smartdrv.exe from the Win98 directory on the windows 98 CD (file caching). Type cd to back up
to the root directory. Insert Windows XP CD into the CD reader, Copy the i386 folder to C:\. Go
into C:\i386 folder on C: and type winnt.exe to launch the setup from the hard drive.
Install XP- Unattended Product Key
WINNT.SIF. Its created by the Configuration Manager which can be found in the
SUPPORT\TOOLS folder in the DEPLOY.CAB. The lines you're concerned with are:
[UserData]
FullName=Your Name
ComputerName=ComputerName
ProductID=XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX
Installing Windows 98 to its Own Partition after Installing XP
Installing Windows 98 after Installing Windows XP
Install W2K to its Own Partition after Installing XP
Use a 98 Startup disk and run WINNT.EXE from the I386 directory. After 2K is installed, boot
with the XP CD and at the Setup/Repair screen, choose Repair. In Recovery Console, use the
following commands:
1) FIXBOOT, answer Yes
2) CD \
3) ATTRIB -H NTLDR
4) ATTRIB -S NTLDR
5) ATTRIB -R NTLDR
6) ATTRIB -H NTDETECT.COM
7) ATTRIB -S NTDETECT.COM
8) ATTRIB -R NTDETECT.COM

9) COPY X:\I386\NTLDR C:\
10) COPY X:\I386\NTDETECT.COM C:\
In Steps 9 and 10, X is the letter of your CD-Rom drive.
Installing Win2K after installing Windows XP.
Installation or Removal Was Not Complete Error Message
When you are installing a program that uses the InstallShield Wizard, you may receive an error
message similar to one of the following:
The installation/removal of a previous program was not completed. Setup must restart your
computer before proceeding with Installation. After windows has been restarted, please run setup
again to complete installation.
-orA previous program installation was never completed. You need to restart your computer to
complete that installation before running Internet Explorer Setup. Setup will now close. If you
restart the computer as suggested and then try to install the program again, you receive the same
error message.
The Installation/Removal of a Previous Program Was Never Completed
IntelliPoint
IntelliPoint 4.0: "HPVLS60" or "HPFVLS06" Error Message or Printer Problem After You Install
IntelliPoint 4.0 Software
Internet Connection
Troubleshooting Modem Issues, Auto-Connect/Disconnect & Dialup for Windows XP
Troubleshooting Modem Problems in Windows XP
Troubleshooting Cable Modems
Troubleshooting TCP/IP Connectivity with Windows
Troubleshooting TCP/IP Problems in Windows XP Using TRACERT
Troubleshooting Problems Communicating on the Internet
Troubleshooting Internet Service Provider Logon Problems
Troubleshooting a Connection to the Internet in Windows XP
Troubleshooting Connection Speeds in Windows XP
Troubleshooting a PPPoE Connection in Windows XP
Troubleshooting Setting Up an NNTP Server in Windows XP
Cannot Connect To Internet Or MSN With Two Network Cards
Internet Downloads
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet Settings. To
increase the number of simultaneous connections that are allowed to 10, follow these steps: On
the Edit menu, click Add Value, and then add the following registry values:
"MaxConnectionsPer1_0Server"=Dword:0000000a
"MaxConnectionsPerServer"=Dword:0000000a.

Internet Time
The Internet Time service in its default state does not work with the Windows XP Personal
Firewall enabled on a dial-up connection. To re-enable this ability while maintaining your
firewall follow these steps:
Go to My Network Places, and in the Network Tasks sidebar select View Network Connections.
Right-click your dial-up account and select Properties. Click the Advanced tab and click Settings.
Click Add and enter "Internet Time Service" for the description. Enter 127.0.0.1 for the IP, and
enter 123 for both the External and Internal port numbers and select TCP. Click OK until the
Properties box disappears.
If you are online, a dialog box will appear telling you that you need to disconnect and reconnect
for the settings to take effect.
Now when you double-click the system tray Clock and select Update Now from the Internet Time
tab, it should work correctly."
Internet Time - Adjust Synchronization
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\DateTime\Server
s. Create a New String Value Name the new value with a number one higher than the last. Under
Value Data enter the hostname. Registry/Exit.
Internet Time Server
Want to be sure your computer always displays the correct time? Synchronize your system clock
with an Internet time server.
Double-click the clock in the notification area of your taskbar, and the Date and Time Properties
dialog box appears (you can also access these settings from the Control Panel). Click the Internet
Time tab, then select "Automatically synchronize with an Internet time server." Choose a server in
the dropdown list, then click OK. From now, assuming you have a continuous Internet connection,
your clock will be synchronized once a week.
Note: If your computer is a member of a domain, most likely, it is already synchronized
automatically by a network time server, and the Internet Time tab will not appear in your Date and
Time Properties dialog box.
IP Addresses
What is your IP Address: Click here.
Start/Run: %windir%\System32\cmd.exe /k ipconfig.exe /all or...
Better Easy IP Check - Simply copy and paste the following into notepad
@echo.
@ipconfig | find "IP Address"
@echo.
@pause

And save as IP.BAT (save to your windows dir if you want to be able to access it anywhere). or...
Lists the IP Address(es) for your computer
This VB Script will determine the IP Address(es) available on your computer and display them,
along with the hostname associated with that IP Address. Download the Find IP.vbs file and save
it to your hard drive (you may want to right click and use Save Target As).
Double-click the Find IP.vbs file.
http://www.dougknox.com/dbknox/utility/scripts_desc/find_ip.vbs. A dialog will open listing the
available IP Address(es) and the corresponding hostname.
IRQ_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL
To try to work around this issue: If Easy CD Creator is still installed, uninstall it, or uninstall only
the DirectCD component.
Rename the Udfreadr.sys and Cdudf.sys files that are located in the %Systemroot
%\System32\Drivers folder to Udfreadr.old and Cdudf.old. File properties: Udfreadr.sys, 23-Oct01, 5.0.2.155 Cdudf.sys, 11-Jan-01, 5.0.2.155. NOTE : These files may have already been
removed by the uninstaller program for Easy CD Creator.
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and Delete the following registry keys and then Rebooot:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\UdfReadr
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\cdudf
Computer Automatically Restarts After You Upgrade to Windows XP
IRQ's - Prioritizing
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\PriorityControl. Create a new
DWORD value called IRQ8PRiority and set the data to 1, reboot.
Isass.Exe
You Cannot Log On to Windows XP After Running the Out-of-Box Experience
ISP
New Service Setup (Slow Loader)

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Jamellad2editor.Exe
Jamellad2editor.exe Causes an Error Message in Windows XP
Java VM
To download the Microsoft Java VM for Windows XP from http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com
Go to the Windows Update Site (Start/All Programs/Windows Update/Personalize Windows
Update/Enable the Windows Update Catalog. Save Settings. Select Windows Update Catalog
from the left hand pane/Select Find updates for Microsoft Windows systems from the right hand
pane/Select Windows XP/Search. Select Critical Updates and Service Packs.
Select the March 4th Security Update as it contains Windows XP VM.
Or you can download it from one of these locations:
http://www.download.windowsupdate.com/msdownload/update/v319990518/cabpool/MSJavx86_CD24D109B33421DB6728FBDC80C9F572EB7A3865.exe
or
http://ftp.uni-stuttgart.de/pub/systems/win95/fixes/VM/msjavx86.exe
or
ftp://ftp.uq.edu.au/mirror/microsoft/patches/winxp/javavm_3319_MIL_4275/MSJavx86.exe
JPG's - Only Saves as a Bitmap
The option to save as jpeg is not available: Clear your Temporary Internet Files, then try again.
Go to IE/Internet Options/Delete Files. Also in Settings change the amount to 40 MB. This will
help in preventing the index files from becoming overloaded.
If that doesn't help check your settings here: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.jpg. For Content Type, it should read "image/jpeg".
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.jpeg. For content Type, it should read: image/jpeg
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.gif. For Content Type is should read "image/gif"
If it already set to that, go to Start, Run and type in: regsvr32 /i shdocvw.dll, regsvr32 /i
shdoc401.dll,regsvr32 webvw.dll and regsvr32 thumbvw.dll (for upgrades).
NOTE: If you are using AOL:
This behavior may occur when AOL's graphic compression option is turned on. When this option
is on, the images are saved as the .art file type.
Connect to the Internet through AOL, and then visit the following AOL Web site: www.aol.com.
Click My AOL. On the Settings menu, click Preferences.

In the Preferences dialog box, click Internet Options (WWW). In the Internet Options dialog box,
click to clear the Always Compress Graphics dialog box. Click to select the Never Compress
Graphics dialog box. Click Apply, and then click OK.
Internet Explorer Does Not Save Graphics Files in the Proper Format
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q260650
You May Be Unable to Save .jpg Files with Microsoft Paint After You Install Office 2000 SR1 or
SP2
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=193354
Cannot Select a .jpg Image as Your Desktop Background Image
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;313596
Show All Bitmap Views (Line 122)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Cannot Select a .jpg Image as Your Desktop Background Image
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;313596
You May Be Unable to Save .jpg Files with Microsoft Paint After You Install Office 2000 SR1 or
SP2
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=193354
KaZaA - Remove Ads
Tired of all the ads at the bottom of Kazaa, not to mention the ads Kazaa causes to pop up? Here is
a tweak to end all Kazaa related ads.
1. With KaZaA closed navigate to C:\Windows\System32\AdCache.
2. Delete all files within 'AdCache', leave the 'Temp' folder but make sure it is empty.
3. Right click on the folder 'AdCache' & select properties.
4. Navigate to the Security tab.
5. In the group or user name box, select administrator, or the appropriate user (anyone who runs
kazaa).
6. In the permissions box deny write access.
7. Repeat for all necessary users and click 'OK'.
Kernel Dump
How to Send a Full or Kernel Dump to Microsoft Windows Online Crash Analysis
Kernel32.Exe
Error Message Refers to the Kernel32.exe File if Your Computer Is Infected by the
Worm_badtrans.b Virus
Keyboard
Computer Does Not Resume When You Press a Key on Your USB Keyboard

Keyboard - Microsoft On-Screen Keyboard
If you're mobility-impaired (or you adore your mouse), you should know that Windows XP's
accessibility tools include an On-Screen Keyboard. This tool allows you to type without touching
your keyboard. Select Start, All Programs, Accessories, Accessibility, On-Screen Keyboard, and
up pops a virtual keyboard. (Click OK to close the informational dialog box.)
By default, clicking an On-Screen Keyboard letter "types" it on screen. Or, you can switch to
"hover" mode, where you don't click at all. Select Settings, Typing Mode, select "Hover to select,"
set the desired interval, then click OK. Now, holding your mouse pointer over a key for the set
amount of time "types" that key. To close the On-Screen Keyboard, click the X in its upper-right
corner or select File, Exit.
Tip: On screen keyboard - Start/Run/OSK
Keyboard Setup Function Keys
A Description of the Windows XP Setup Function Keys
Keyboard Shortcuts
List of the Keyboard Shortcuts That Are Available in Windows XP
Internet Explorer Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows
HOW TO: Create a Keyboard Shortcut for a Program in Windows XP
Kodak
Using KODAK Digital Cameras with Windows XP

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Language Tool Bar - Hide
Upon first installing Windows XP, you'll notice a language toolbar on your Taskbar. For example,
if you use the English version, it will have a button that says EN on it. This feature comes in
handy if you need to switch between languages quickly, just click the current language and select
another in the pop-up menu. To hide this toolbar, Right click a blank area of the Taskbar, select
Toolbars, then select (to deselect) Language Bar.
HOW TO: Use the Language Bar in Windows XP
Legal Notice Dialog Box Before Login
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon

Modify the value named 'LegalNoticeCaption' to represent the caption on the dialog box (e.g.
'WARNING!'). If this value doesn't already exist create it. Modify the value named
'LegalNoticeText' to represent the body of the dialog box (e.g. 'Do Not Attempt to Logon to this
system unless you are an authorized user!') Exit your registry and restart Windows, and the next
time you boot up you should be presented with the dialog box before logging on.
Lexmark Printers
Windows® XP & Lexmark Printing Solutions
Links - XP Support Links
Kelly's Tweaks and Fixes
Doug's Tweaks and Tips
Windows XP Tips and Tricks
Windows XP Forumz
"Links" Folder - Remove
There are two methods that can be used to hide the Links folder, one using the registry and the
other using file attributes. Both methods are detailed below: Using the Registry: Open your
registry and find the key below.
Set the value of "LinksFolderName" to equal a blank string. Open IE and delete the Links folder
from the Favorites menu.
The next time you start Internet Explorer the Links folder will not be recreated.
Using File Attributes: Using Explorer find the location of your Favorites folder (e.g.
C:\Documents and Settings\Joe Bloggs\Favorites) within that folder will be a sub-folder named
Links.
Select the Links folder and right-click (or secondary click) and select Properties, check the
Hidden checkbox and click OK.
From now on the Links folder should be hidden from the Favorites list. This works for any other
folder or link on the favorites menu as well. Note: The Links folder must be manually deleted
from the favorites menu. This tweak stops it being automatically recreated.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Toolbar
Value Name: LinksFolderName
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value)
Liteinst.Exe
Liteinst.exe Causes an Error Message in Windows XP
Local Security Policy

To access Group and Local Security Policies (XP Pro only) click Start, Run and enter
SECPOL.MSC.
Lock Computer when Idle without Screensaver Password
Go into C:\Windows and create a new shortcut. Paste this in the path: %windir
%\System32\rundll32.exe user32.dll,LockWorkStation. Click next and rename it, click finish.
Then Control Panel/Scheduled Tasks/Add Scheduled Task/Next/Browse. Find the new shortcut,
select it, pick daily, next. Type in a password for the Scheduled Task/Confirm, Next, Finish.
Double click the new scheduled task you just made, Schedule Tab/Schedule Task/Select when
Idle, enter time allotment, ok.
Tip: Resume without a password - If you have a screen saver activating, go to that tab and
uncheck "On resume display
welcome screen".
Tip: Disable Screensaver from Becoming Active: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop. Value Name: ScreenSaveActive, Data Type:
REG_SZ (String Value), Value Data: (0 = disabled, 1 =enabled). Change the value of
'ScreenSaveActive' to '0' to disable the screen saver. Restart Windows for the change to take
effect. Note: Windows has a default screen saver called login.scr, which runs even if no screen
saver has been selected.
Lock Workstation
To lock a workstation programmatically, you can use the Win32 LockWorkStation function. Call
this function from the command line by using the Rundll32 interface. Use the following
command: rundll32 user32.dll,LockWorkStation
Note that this command is white-space sensitive and case sensitive. To open a command line
window, click Start , click Run , type cmd in the Open box, and then click OK .
How to Lock a Workstation from the Command Line
Log Files
Log Files used in Windows XP
Logoff and Shutdown
Remove Logoff from Start Menu
Tip: If you're running Pro, click Start, Run and enter GPEDIT.MSC Then navigate to User
Configuration, Administrative
Templates, Start Menu and Taskbar. You'll see the entry to Remove Log off.
"Logoff" and "Shutdown" Are Missing From the Start Menu
Policy Settings for the Start Menu in Windows XP
Logon

Logon - Configure
Logon and User Profiles Edits and Explanations
Logon - Background (Reference)
To change the logon background
1. Click Start > click Run > type regedit > and click OK.
2. Navigate to the following registry key: HKEY_USERS\DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop
3. In the details pane (right-side), double-click the Wallpaper string value item.
4. In Value data , type the path and name of the picture or background, and then click OK
.
IMPORTANT: Make sure that you specify the path correctly to the Background.
Logon - Change Message
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\ CurrentVersion\Winlogon.
Value Name: LogonPrompt, Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value). Create a new string value named
'LogonPrompt' and enter the text you want to display. The default message is: 'Enter a user name
and password that is valid for this system.' This feature can be used in conjunction with the Legal
Notice Dialog Box Before Logon tweak.
Logon - Dialog Box
This setting controls whether the options to enter a domain or to log on using a dial-up connection
are shown on the Windows logon box.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Value Name: ShowLogonOptions
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = hide options, 1 = display options)
You may need to create the key if it does not already exist. Create a new DWORD value, or
modify the existing value, called 'ShowLogonOptions' and edit the value according to the settings
below. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take
effect.
Logon - No Password
1. At a command prompt, type "control userpasswords2" and press Enter to open the Windows
2000-style User Accounts
application.
2. On the Users tab, clear the Users Must Enter A User Name And Password To Use This
Computer check box and then
click OK.
3. In the Automatically Log On dialog box that appears, type the user name and password for the
account you want to be
logged on each time you start your computer.
How to Enable Automatic Logon in Windows XP

How To Change the Logon Window and the Shutdown Preferences
Logon Script
How to Assign a Logon Script to a Profile for a Local User
Lost or Corrupt User Profile
Create a new account/administrator profile and log in. Then go to C:\Documents and Settings\
[Previous User Profile] and copy all folders to: C:\Documents and Settings\[New User Profile].
Then reboot.
Low Disk Space - Disable Low Disk Space Message
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer.
Create or modify: NoLowDiskSpaceChecks REG_DWORD and set the value to 1.
Logoff/Reboot.
Customizing Windows XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Lsass.Exe
Access Violation in Lsass.exe in Windows
Directory Services does NOT start with LSASS.EXE
Access Violation in Lsass.exe Due to Incorrect Buffer Size

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Make Folders Private - To Set the My Documents Folder to Private
On the Start menu, right-click My Documents, and then click Properties. Click the Sharing tab,
and then click to select the Make this folder private so that only I have access to it check box.
Click Apply, and then click OK. Note: You cannot make your folders private if your drive is not
formatted as NTFS. You Cannot Select the "Make This Folder Private" Option
Home Edition: Set Permissions for Shared Files and Folders. Boot into safe mode and logon to the
'Administrator' account. Right click the folder in question/Sharing and Security/Make Folder
Private.
To view the Security tab for a file or folder in XP, hold down the Ctrl key while right-clicking the
file or folder, and select Properties. If you are in a domain instead of a workgroup, this approach is
unnecessary.
Tip: Hide Files and Folders inside of Windows XP

Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/View/Show Hidden Files and Folders. Right click the
folder to be hidden/Sharing and Security/General Tab/Hidden/Apply Changes to.../
Tip: Hide Your Private Folders with Folder Guard
Hide your private files and folders from other users. Restrict access to important system files and
be in full control of the way your files and programs are used by other users of your computer.
http://www.winability.com/folderguard
McAfee
Windows XP: TCP/IP Functionality and Internet Connectivity Are Disrupted When You Uninstall
McAfee Personal Firewall
MCSE: Microsoft Certification : Introduction
Microsoft Certified Systems Engineers, MCSEs, design and implement an infrastructure for
business solutions based on the Windows platform (2000) and Microsoft Servers System (2003).
Both of these MCSE tracks include specializations in:
Messaging
Security
The MCSE on Microsoft Windows 2000
This track is appropriate for IT professionals working in the typically complex computing
environment of medium-to-large organizations. These professionals design and implement
business infrastructures based on Windows 2000 platform.
The MCSE on Windows Server 2003
Track for Windows Server 2003 includes all the functionalities of the Windows Server Operating
System, such as security, reliability, availability, and scalability. Earning MCSE 2003 validates
your ability to make infrastructures more efficient, keep everyone productive, and deliver more
applications. These tasks on the latest Microsoft server operating system demonstrate your
expertise to employers, clients, and peers.
Microsoft Certification Exam Simulators and Related Exam Simulators
Media Player
Windows Media Player Rollup Available
26 June 2002 Cumulative Patch for Windows Media Player
Windows Media Player for Windows XP KB Articles
Windows XP Programs Cannot Connect to the Media Player
Clear Recent Play list and/or Prevent the list from accumulating:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/ClearRecent.Exe
Disable and/or Clear Media Players Play List (Line 11)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

Tip: Set as Default - Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/File Types/Audio
CD/Advanced/Edit/Aplication used: "C:\Program Files\Windows Media Player\wmplayer.exe"
/prefetch:3 /device:AudioCD "%L"
Tip: Although Windows XP comes with Windows Media Player 8.0, the older Windows
Media Player 6.4 is installed,
too. It's at C:\Program Files\Windows Media Player\mplayer2.exe.
Change the MP3 Encoding Rates in Media Player (All Versions). These settings allow you to
change the MP3 encoding rates in Windows Media Player. The default is 56Kbps which is quite
low quality, this tweak allows you to add higher rates such as 128Kbps or 192Kbps. Go to
Start/Run/Regedit (Reference)
You may need to create the key if it does not already exist. Create a new DWORD value, or
modify the existing value, called 'LowRate, MediumRate, MediumHighRate, HighRate' and edit
the value according to the settings below.

(Default)

REG_SZ

(value not set)

HighRate

REG_SZ

0x0004e200 (320000)

LowRate

REG_SZ

0x0000fa00 (64000)

MediumHighRate

REG_SZ

0x0002ee00 (192000)

MediumRate

REG_SZ

0x0001f400 (128000)

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HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\Settings\MP3Encoding
Value Name: LowRate, MediumRate, MediumHighRate, HighRate
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: Rate in Bits per Second (bps)
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Troubleshooting Playback in Media Player for Windows XP
Troubleshooting with Windows Media Player Error Code Page
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_resources.htm

Media Player 8 Reinstall
Windows Media Player: WMP mini FAQ
Windows Media Player FAQs
Windows XP Cannot Enter Standby Mode When Window Media Player Is Paused
Windows Media Bonus Pack for Windows XP
Media Player Library - Delete/Repair
If you have moved your music around on your hard drives, Windows Media Player continues to
add new entries into it's library instead of modifying the existing ones. This means that you will
now have multiple entries for the same song, half of which will not work now because you have
moved the files to their new location. To delete the current library and build a new one, do the
following:
1. Close Windows Media Player, wait about 3 seconds for the database to close.
2. Using "My Computer", navigate to the following folder:
F:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Microsoft\Media Index
3. Delete the "wmplibrary....db" file here. This is not your actual music, only the database which
Windows Media Player uses
as a listing.
4. Start Windows Media Player.
5. Hit "F3" and enter the location where you have moved your music to. If it is on multiple drives,
check "All Drives". Let it
finish. All the old listings will now be gone, and you will only have the new accurate ones.
Media Player - Change/Remove 3rd Party Branding
Close Media Player. Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT Go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\WindowsMediaPlayer
Right click in the right pane and select New, String value. Name the value TitleBar. Double click
the value you just created and enter the text you want to appear on the Title Bar. Value Name:
TitleBar, Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value). Create a new string value called "TitleBar" and set it
to the text you would like display in the title. Restart Media Player for the change the take effect.
If you want to get rid of the branding entirely, right click on the TitleBar value and select Delete.
Media Player - Disable Update Message
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\PlayerUpgrade. Value Name:
AskMeAgain, Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value), Value Data: "yes" or "no".
Create a new String value, or modify the existing value, called 'AskMeAgain' and edit the value
according to the settings above. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows
for the change to take effect.
Media Player - DVD
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\Player\Settings. Value Name:

EnableDVDUI, Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value), Value Data: yes or no. Create a new string
value called "EnableDVDUI" and set it to "yes" to enable DVD functionality.
Media Player - Play List
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\Player\RecentFileList. Delete
RecentFileList, or manually remove them in the right pane. NOTE: This registry key is re-created
the next time you open a file in Media Player.
Tip: To Keep Media Player from maintaining the Recent Files List. Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\Preferences. Look in the right pane
for the value called: AddToMRU. Double click this item and set the value to 00 (two zeros).
Clear Media Player Recent Files List
Disable Media Player Recent Files List
Both of these links are to VB Script files. Download and save the file, then double click the file to
run it. VB Script files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking them and selecting Edit.
Media Player - Reinstall and CD Burning Issues
Media Player 8 Reinstall Procedure
Windows Media Player: WMP mini FAQ
Windows Media Player FAQs
Tip: Although Windows XP comes with the cool-looking Windows Media Player 8.0, the
older Windows Media Player
6.4 is installed, too. It's at C:\Program Files\Windows Media Player\mplayer2.exe. Try it
when playing movies, it
usually plays them more smoothly than WMP8.
Troubleshooting Playback in Media Player for Windows XP
Troubleshooting with Windows Media Player Error Code Page
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_resources.htm
Windows Media Player for Windows XP KB Articles
#xp_video
Media Player - Disable Update Message
Media Player - User Identifier
This setting controls whether Windows Media Player will send a globally unique identifier
(GUID) when communicating with a remote media source. Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\Preferences
Value Name: SendUserGUID
Data Type: REG_BINARY (Binary Value)
Value Data: (00 00 00 00 = disabled, 01 00 00 00 = default)

You may need to create the key if it does not already exist. Create a new Binary value, or modify
the existing value, called 'SendUserGUID' and edit the value according to the settings below. Exit
your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Memory Dump
Log Files, Memory Dump Information and Regedits
Gathering Blue Screen Information After Memory Dump
Blue Screen Preparation Before Contacting Microsoft
Memory Tweaks
Menu Display - Speed Up
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop In the right pane select, "MenuShowDelay".
Right click, modify and set the value to 0. Reboot.
Tip: TweakUI/Mouse/Menu Speed/Move glider to fast/Reboot.
Messenger
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Windows Messenger: Instant Messaging
Windows Messenger: Voice Communications
Windows Messenger: Video Communications
Windows Messenger: Send a File or Photo
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Remove Messenger from XP
Start/Run/RunDll32 advpack.dll,LaunchINFSection %windir%\INF\msmsgs.inf,BLC.Remove
Stop Windows Messenger from Auto-Starting
Simply delete the following Registry Key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run\MSMSGS
Uninstall Messenger
You have to edit sysoc.inf (located in /WINDOWS/inf). Under [Components] you should see the
following line:
msmsgs=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,msmsgs.inf,hide,7. Take the word 'hide' out of the line, and it should
look like this:

msmsgs=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,msmsgs.inf,,7. Exit and save.
Go to Add or Remove Programs, and click on Add/Remove Windows Components. There you
should now be able to uncheck the MSN Messenger Service, and by clicking Next it will
uninstall.
Remove MSN Messenger from Outlook Express
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Outlook Express. Value Name: Hide
Messenger, Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value), Value Data: (2 = remove messenger).
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'Hide Messenger' and set the
value to 2.
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Hotmail is slow after disabling/removing Messenger
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Messenger.MsgrObject
Right click on the Messenger.MsgrObject key and select rename. Rename it to
Messenger.MsgrObjectold
This will prevent Messenger from loading when you access your account via the Hotmail web
page, it will also prevent the delay when Messenger has been removed or disabled.
Tip: When you sign in to Messenger, it remembers every email address/.net passport that you
signed in under. To remove
an item from the list of remembered names: Start/Run/control userpasswords2.
Advanced/Manager Passwords.
Tip: Preventing Messenger from Automatically Signing in: Start/Run/control
userpasswords2/Advanced tab. Manage
Passwords/Delete (Passport) Entries. Open MSN Messenger (click here to sign in) enter
passport e-mail address and
password and leave the Sign Me In Automatically unchecked.
Tip: Easiest method to disable Messenger: C:\Program Files\Messenger and either rename the
Messenger folder to
something like "MessengerOLD" or just move it.
How to Disable, Remove, Issues (OE and Hotmail), Tweaks & Fixes
Tip: Change the MSN Messenger Background Image
This tweak allows you to change the background bitmap image in the MSN Messenger service.
Locate the installation directory for MSN Messenger on your system (e.g. "C:\Program
Files\Messenger"). This location can also be found in the registry in the "InstallationDirectory"
value at [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\MessengerService].

Rename the "lvback.gif" file in the installation directory to "lvback.old". Then copy and rename
the new background GIF file to the same directory as "lvback.gif". Restart MSN Messenger for
the change to take effect.
Tip: Getting rid of ads in MSN messenger
Find its default folder (search for Messenger). Open LINKS.TXT and clear its contents. When
finished, save the file and pull up its properties from the Windows Explorer. Place a checkmark in
the "Read-only" field.
Error Message in Windows Messenger During an Automatic Upgrade
Messenger Service
If you don't intend using XP on a LAN you can disable the "Server" and "Workstation" services.
csrss.exe is associated with the Server process. The Messenger Service "Transmits net send and
Alerter service messages between clients and servers".
To disable the Messenger Service: Go to Start/Control Panel/Administrative Tools/Services.
Double click the Messenger Service and change Automatic to Disabled, then click the Stop
button.
Or use this automated edit:
Disable Messenger Service (Line 95)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To Delete the Messenger Service: Go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: sc delete messenger.
Reboot.
Or go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services
It may be wise to disable the Administrative Alerts Service as well. Specify the Schedule for
Alerter Service - This setting is used to specify how often the server checks alert conditions and
sends any required alert messages to administrative users.
http://www.winguides.com/registry/display.php/832/
Running ZoneAlarm and/or blocking incoming port 135 should be sufficient to stop things.
To enable XP's Internet Connection Firewall
Messenger Service Window That Contains an Internet Advertisement Appears
NOTE: Direct quote from the developers of this software:
"Notice: Please do not use this software for spamming. If you do so, you will take full
responsibility for your actions. This software is made to send advertising or system messages to
your own network".
To file complaints write to: http://www.directadvertiser.com/contact.html
Microsoft Platform Support Reporting Tool - (Reference)

Are you having a tough time with Microsoft Windows XP and feel like lost ! If this is the case and
you are working with Microsoft Support team, Ask them about MPS reporting tool. This tool can
create a LITE or FULL version of a CAB file that could be useful for Microsoft Support person or
even you. Learn more about MPSRPT_XP.exe.
Microsoft PowerToys for Windows XP
They're back! PowerToys are additional programs that developers work on after a product has
been released to manufacturing. They add fun and functionality to the Windows experience.
Note: We've taken great care to ensure that PowerToys operate as they should, but they are not
part of Windows and are not supported by Microsoft.
http://www.microsoft.com/WINDOWSXP/home/downloads/powertoys.asp
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/downloads/powertoys.asp
Microtek
In keeping with industry developments and ensuring that its scanners remain on the leading edge
of technology, Microtek is pleased to announce that its scanners are compatible with the newly
released Microsoft Windows (TM) XP operating system. Download the drivers here.
Microsoft Personal Security Advisor
HOW TO: Use the Microsoft Personal Security Advisor Web Site in Windows
Microsoft and Wugnet - Best Choice Shareware Pick of the Week
Power Drawers

Want Windows® to be faster and easier? Get Power Drawers, a unique must-have enhancement to
boost Windows productivity! It lets you organize and access files much faster. Includes popup
graphics & text previews, allows multiple apps associated with file types, folder printing,
eliminates desktop clutter and many other powerful features! Show me the pick!
Directory Toolkit
An award winning utility from Funduc Software, Directory Toolkit is a multi-purpose file
manager and path comparison/synchronize utility with archive functions and dozens of extra
features. This is an established program that is useful to anyone who needs to compare and
synchronize two or more paths. Show me the pick!
ThumbsPlus by Cerious Software
ThumbsPlus is a multi-talented application that will help you organize, view, edit, print, catalog
and find all of your graphic files. With ThumbsPlus, you make thumbnails of your graphics files
and organize them on your hard disks and in the built-in MS Access database. You can print
catalogues, generate contact sheets, make slide shows, build thumbnail web pages, edit multiple
files in batch mode, and more. Image editing features include color adjustment, rotating,
resampling, digital filtering, histogram stretching, specialized image processes, and others.
Express Assist by AJSystems, Inc.
Express Assist is a very easy to use utility to backup all of your Outlook Express mail folders
(including all attachments) as a single compressed, backup file. You can easily restore one, all, or
any selection, of the mail folders saved in your backup file. In addition, you may synchronize

your current Outlook Express message folders with message folders saved in the Express Assist
backup. Express Assist provides full support for Outlook Express 4, 5, 5.5 and 6.0. It operates on
Windows 95, 98, ME, NT4, Windows 2000 and XP.
Backup Plus by AVANTRIX, Inc.
Backup Plus allows you to easily and quickly backup all of your important data. Features include
the ability to include files, full folders, wildcards and exclusions in your backup set. Backup to
just about any removable device, span multiple disks if required and even write to CDR/CDRW
drives with your existing packet writing software. Make backups easy with Backup Plus.
Modem
Windows XP Modem Tweak Guide
Connecting to the Internet via Modem (Windows XP)
Modem
Modem, Com Ports and Dialup Issues:
Resources for Troubleshooting Modem Problems in Windows XP
"Error 692: Hardware Failure in the Modem" Error Message When You Dial an RAS Server
A Computer May Hang During a Heavy Load with an Ericsson HIS Modem
Why does my modem abruptly disconnect sometimes?
What causes modem disconnects ?
Troubleshooting: Disconnects
How do I troubleshoot modem disconnects?
Q: Why I often get modem disconnects?
A: Generally, there will probably always be an occasional disconnect. After all, we are dealing
with phone lines being pushed to their limits with V.32 and V.34 modems. Phone lines were
designed for voice, not for data transmission. But if you're getting a lot more than the occasional
disconnect, something is wrong and you should methodically follow the steps below.
Disconnections may be caused by momentary drops of DTR (Data Terminal Ready). By default,
most modems respond to a drop of DTR by hanging up. With US Robotics and other modems,
add S25=200 to your Modem String. This sets the duration, in hundredths of a second, that DTR
must be dropped so that the modem doesn't interpret a random glitch as a DTR loss.
A similar possibility to the one above is that your modem could not distinguish between a line hit,
or other disturbances that momentarily break the connection, from a true disconnect by the remote
modem. Add S10=100 to the Modem String to set the duration, in tenths of a second, that the
modem waits after loss of carrier before hanging up.
If you have call waiting and a call comes in while you are connected, your modem might interpret
the second signal as a disconnect by the remote modem. Ask your phone company how to
temporarily disable call waiting. Also, keep in mind that many ISP set their sites having an idle
timeout. If there is no modem activity on your end for a certain length of time, say 15 minutes,
you will be disconnected.
If you're disconnected shortly after logging in, you may be attempting simultaneous logins on the
same account. Make sure no one is logged-in to your account such as a family member at home. If

this isn't the case, try to add a Modem String to make your connection stronger. Check your
modem's instruction manual for specific information about settings.
Troubleshooting Internet Service Provider Logon Problems
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q161986
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q314455
Troubleshooting Modem Problems in Windows XP
Troubleshooting TCP/IP Connectivity with Windows
Troubleshooting Problems Communicating on the Internet
Troubleshooting Internet Service Provider Logon Problems
Troubleshooting a Connection to the Internet in Windows XP
Troubleshooting Connection Speeds in Windows XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_resources.htm
Modem - Auto Dials
Network Connections/Advanced/Dial-Up Preferences/Enable Auto-Dial by Location/Uncheck all
locations and Always ask me before Auto-Dialing and Always ask me before autodialing.
Disable Automatic Modem Connections at Startup
If remote connections are enabled in Windows, the system may try to initiate an Internet
connection at Windows startup or at the start of many applications. This setting disables that
behavior.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Ole. Value Name: EnableRemoteConnect,
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value), Value Data: "Y" = enable automatic connections, "N" =
disabled.
Create a new String value, or modify the existing value, called 'EnableRemoteConnect' and edit
the value according to the settings above. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of
Windows for the change to take effect.
Modify the Internet Auto-Dial Settings
Windows has the option to automatically dial your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to establish an
Internet connection. This option can be controlled using this tweak.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Internet Settings
Value Name: EnableAutodial
Data Type: REG_BINARY (Binary Value)
Value Data: (00 00 00 00 = disabled, 01 00 00 00 = enabled)
Create a new binary value named "EnableAutodial", and set the new value to equal "01 00 00 00"
to enable autodial or "00 00 00 00" to disable it.
Note: This restriction can be used either on a user by user basis by adding it to
HKEY_CURRENT_USER or on a computer wide basis by adding it to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE.

To view the list of names and addresses recorded by AutoDial, type the following
command at a command
prompt: rasautou -s
To delete a name or address entry from the list: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\RAS Autodial\Addresses
You can delete any TCP/IP addresses that you see under this key. Note that AutoDial can use IP
addresses, DNS fully qualified domain names (FQDN), and NetBIOS names.
How to Use the Rasdiag.exe Support Tool in Windows XP
How to View and Remove Information from AutoDial
Modem - Auto Disconnect (Turn Off)
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\RemoteAccess\Parameters
Name: AutoDisconnect
Type: REG_DWORD
Value: 0-1000 minutes
Sets the time interval after which inactive connections are terminated. Inactivity is measured by
lack of NetBIOS session
data transfer, such as copying files, accessing network resources, and sending and receiving
electronic mail.
You might want to set this parameter to 0 minutes if clients are running NetBIOS datagram
applications. Setting this parameter to 0 turns off AutoDisconnect. Default=20 minutes.
Modem - Disconnects
ASDL Modems Disconnect
Disable Hibernation and Disable Windows Messenger.
DSL Modem Disconnects
Right click My Computer Icon/Properties/Hardware/Device Manager. Expand USB
Controllers/Double Click USB Root Hub. Select Power Management and uncheck, Allow the
computer to turn off the device to save power.
Tip: Stop connection from timing out on Web Pages. Sometimes when trying to connect to a
Web site, that connection
attempt "times-out" due to the slowness of response, and you get a "Could not connect
to ... ". Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\Class\Net.
In the left pane, locate the 0000 Key (or 0001, 0002, or 0003) that represents your
modem or NIC. Under that

Key, locate the Value name called "SLOWNET" (right pane). Double click on
SLOWNET, and change "Value
data = 01" (zero & 1), to "00" (2 zero's). Close RegEdit, and reboot.
Troubleshooting Problems Communicating on the Internet
Cable Modem and DSL Speed Tweak to Increase Performance
Windows XP Internet Programs Cannot Connect to the Internet Through Broadband Connection
Troubleshooting Modem and Connection Issues:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_oe.htm
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_modem.htm
Troubleshooting Modem Problems in Windows XP
Troubleshooting TCP/IP Connectivity with Windows
Troubleshooting Problems Communicating on the Internet
Troubleshooting Internet Service Provider Logon Problems
Troubleshooting a Connection to the Internet in Windows XP
Troubleshooting Connection Speeds in Windows XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_resources.htm
Modem Does Not Work on Compaq Armada 7800 and Device Manager Reports "Code 10"
Modem - Keep Connection Between Users
The following entry will stop the prompt to shut down the connection when changing users under
Windows XP. This enables a permanent internet connection with multiple users on your PC under
Windows XP. Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Then right-click the right-hand pane, select New/String Value. Name the value
KeepRasConnections and set it to 1.
Keep Ras Connection within Fast User Switching (Line 32)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Modem - Performance
Test your internet connection. Click here.
Web based tool for testing download performance using text, graphics and streaming video. Click
here.
A large section of SpeedGuide.net is dedicated to Cable Modems and DSL technology, stressing
on improving TCP/IP performance over high speed/latency networks. Click here.
Speed Test - Bandwidth Testing. Click here.
What affects modem performance? Click here.
Troubleshooting 56k Modems. Click here. How fast is your 56K modem? Click here.
Cable Modem and DSL Speed Tweak to Increase Performance - Click here.

Download Internet Accelerators. Boost Internet Speed. Click here.
Boost your Internet Speed! Enhance your internet connection and Boosts your Internet speed up
to 300%! with Modem Booster's a proprietary, patent-pending PING technology! Click here.
Get a faster internet connection and increase modem speed with webROCKET Internet Optimizer.
Optimize your modem, computer, and windows system for optimal performance and speed. Click
here.
Increase Modem Speed - Click here.
Increase Internet Speed - Click here.
Modem - Persistent Connections
This setting controls whether new network mappings should be created as persistent connections
that are automatically reconnected at logon. Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Network\Persistent
Connections
Value Name: SaveConnections
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value)
Value Data: yes or no
You may need to create the key if it does not already exist. Create a new String value, or modify
the existing value, called 'SaveConnections' and edit the value according to the settings below.
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Modem - Silence Your Modem
Go to Start/Control Panel/Modem/Connection/Advanced. In the extra settings box type: M0, ( 0
being a zero ).
or...
Open the Control Panel--select Start, Control Panel--and assuming you're in the Classic View,
double-click Phone and Modem Options. (From Category View, select Network and Internet
Connections, and in the left pane, click Phone and Modem Options.) Click the Modems tab, and
with your modem selected, click Properties. Click the Modem tab (again), move the lever under
Speaker volume all the way to the left and click OK.
Tip: Open Network Connections, right click your dial-up connection and select Properties,
then click "Configure..." and
uncheck "Enable modem speaker".
Modem - Won't Disconnect
When you quit Internet Explorer, you may not be prompted to disconnect even if the Disconnect
when connection may no longer be needed option is enabled. The following registry value also
verifies that the option is enabled: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\RemoteAccess\Profile\"Connection Name"\EnableExitDisconnect

The value should be 01 00 00 00.
This behavior can occur if the Easy CD Creator Adaptec starts automatically at startup.
To prevent the Easy CD Creator program from starting automatically, remove the entry for Easy
CD Creator from the following registry key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run. Contact Adaptec
Technical Support for additional information about resolving this issue.
Workaround:
Start/Run/net config server /autodisconnect:30 (30 being an example). To disable AutoDisconnect set it to -1. Setting Autodisconnect to 0 does not turn it off and results in very fast
disconnects, within a few seconds of idle time. (However, the RAS Autodisconnect parameter is
turned off if you set it to a value of 0.)
Morpheus - Max Downloads
The max downloads limit in Morpheus is 50, follow these steps to change your downloads limit to
anything you like, this will also speed up your downloads.
1. Start/Run/Regedit
2. HKEY_CURRENT_USER/Software/Morpheus/Transfer
3. Right click on Concurrentdownloads and select Modify
4. Click on Decimal and change the limit to anything you like.
Tip: Stop the Ads. To stop the ads from popping up when you open up Morpheus:
Go to IE/Tools/Internet Options/Security/Restricted Sites/Sites/Add: ads.musiccity.com
Morpheus.exe Causes an Error Message in Windows XP
Mouse
Troubleshooting with Microsoft Pointing Devices Frequently Asked Questions
Move Folders
My Documents Folder in Windows XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_mydocs.htm
How to Move Shell Folders and Contents
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_shell_folders.htm
Movie Maker
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Movies: Edit Movies
Moviemk.Exe
Problems When You Are Using an Out-of-Date Version of the C-Media Cmaudio.ax Driver File
MP3
Getting MP3 ripping to work in Windows Media Player 8 in XP. Start/Run/Regedit and enter the
following in the registry:
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftMediaPlayerSettingsMP3Encoding]
"LowRate"=dword:0000dac0
"MediumRate"=dword:0000fa00
"MediumHighRate"=dword:0001f400
"HighRate"=dword:0002ee00
This corresponds to 56, 64, 128 and 192 Kbps. You can change this to your liking using the
following dword hex values :
320 Kbps = dword:0004e200
256 Kbps = dword:0003e800
224 Kbps = dword:00036b00
192 Kbps = dword:0002ee00
160 Kbps = dword:00027100
128 Kbps = dword:0001f400

112 Kbps = dword:0001b580
64 Kbps = dword:0000fa00
56 Kbps = dword:0000dac0
MP3 and WMA
Information here.
MPREXE Error
If you have a system that has multiple passwords, and have ever gotten an error that states
"MPREXE Caused an Invalid Page Fault in Kernel32.dll" then you have a corrupted password
file. One not-so-pleasant solution is to delete the .PWL files. This will eliminate the errors, but
force you to re-key all the passwords.
MS Support
If you have a retail version of Windows XP Home Edition or Professional, you are eligible for
unlimited no-charge Installation Support and 2 no-charge Personal support incidents by phone or
online.
Personal Support is designed to provide support for everyday product usage to help U.S.
consumers, home users and home office customers using Microsoft consumer products. (425)
635-3311 (long distance charges may apply)
Msbb.Exe
Msbb.exe May Cause an Error Message in Windows XP
Msconfig
Msconfig and Troubleshooting Tools for Windows XP
Msconfig - Corrupt
To extract: Open a command prompt window. Insert your XP CD into the drive and enter the
following command:
EXPAND -R X:\I386\MSCONFIG.EX_ Z:\WINDOWS\PCHEALTH\HELPCTR\BINARIES.
This will extract a new copy of the MSCONFIG.EXE from the CD.
Msconfig - To Remove Entries:
These values are stored in the Registry. Click Start/Run/Regedit
For items that were in the Start menu, Programs, Startup folder:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Shared Tools\MSConfig\startupfolder.
You'll find a subkey for each disabled item.
For items loaded from the Registry:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Shared Tools\MSConfig\startupreg.
Again, you'll find a subkey for each disabled item.
Msconfig - Stops the Selective Startup screen
Download the xp_nomsconfig.vbs file:
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/scripts_desc/xp_nomsconfig.htm and save it to your Desktop (you
may want to right click and use Save Target As). Double-click the xp_nomsconfig.vbs file after
closing MSConfig. You will not see the Selective Startup screen on the next boot.
Or...
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
In the right pane, delete the value for MSConfig. Alternatively, you can use a small VB Script file
to do this for you as well. Copy the following three lines to a Notepad file and save as
No_MSCONFIG.VBS
On Error Resume Next
Set WshShell = WScript.CreateObject("WScript.Shell")
WshShell.RegDelete
"HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run\MSConfig"
After running MSConfig, run the VBS file and this entry will be removed automatically.
Msinfo32 - System Information (Error or Missing)
Odd msinfo32.exe problem. msinfo32 mystery solved. (written by Vampirefo, furnished by
Martin)
<Quote>
I finally figured it out, after running test after test. A index.dat file has been deleted, and that's why
when some run msinfo32 they get the help center instead of system information.
I had this problem, and just now got it figured out, I restored a new image and system information
was working great, I then ran Spider which cleans temp files, I saved the report rebooted and
system information was not working.
I looked at what spider deleted and I found it deleted a index.dat here
E:\\WINDOWS\\PCHEALTH\\HELPCTR\\OfflineCache\\index.dat
I opened and image and restored just this dat, and now my system information is working, so this
dat file is the cause for the problem.
</Quote>
More info
Tip: Add System Information to the Right Click

"Can't collect information Access denied to Windows Management Instrumentation server on this
computer. Have an administrator change your access permissions."
Suggestions and Checkpoints:
Go to Start/Run and type in: services.msc. Scroll down to: Windows Management
Instrumentation and make sure the Service is set to Automatic.
Go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: net stop winmgmt. Then delete the
%windir&\system32\wbem\repository directory. Once done go back to Start/Run/CMD and type
in: net start winmgmt
If that doesn't help, try this:
Open a Command Prompt and type "winmgmt /clearadap" to clear prior WMI/resyncperf
information from the registry.
Then type "winmgmt /resyncperf" to register the system performance libraries with WMI again.
WinMgmt could not initialize the core parts
This will re-install wmi into the registry: Go to Start/Run and type in: CMD, then Winmgmt/?
for information. Then run each of these hitting enter after each:
winmgmt /clearadap
winmgmt /kill
winmgmt /unregserver
winmgmt /regserver
winmgmt /resyncperf
If this doesn't help, try posting to this group:
news://msnews.microsoft.com/microsoft.public.windowsxp.wmi
Can't Open Msinfo32
Checkpoints: Go to Start/Run and type in: winmsd and/or click here:
hcp://system/sysinfo/sysInfoLaunch.htm or
Go to Start/Run and type in: msinfo32 /categories +all -loadedmodules (exactly as
written)
Manual settings: Create a batch file containing the following lines:
cd C:\Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\MSInfo
msinfo32 /categories +all -loadedmodules
To Troubleshoot: Verify your settings here: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Shared Tools\MSInfo
Path value = C:\Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\MSInfo\msinfo32.exe
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\App
Paths\msinfo32.exe

Default value = C:\Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\MSInfo\MSInfo32.exe
Path value = C:\Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\MSInfo
Fix for Help and Support and System Information
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/scripts_desc/fixwinxphelp.htm
Error Message: Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) Might Be Corrupted (Unable to
view System Information (MSinfo32) http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;enus;319101
To correct this error: Go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: net stop winmgmt. Then delete
the %windir&\system32\wbem\repository directory. Once done go back to Start/Run/CMD and
type in: net start winmgmt
Or:
To resolve this issue, delete and then re-create the files in the %SystemRoot
%\System32\Wbem\Repository folder. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Click Start, and then right-click My Computer.
2. On the shortcut menu, click Manage.
3. In the left pane of the Computer Management console, double-click Services and
Applications.
4. Under Services and Applications, click Services.
5. In the right pane of the Computer Management console, locate and then right-click
Windows Management Instrumentation.
6. On the shortcut menu, click Stop.
7. Start Windows Explorer, and then locate the %SystemRoot%\System32\Wbem\Repository
folder.
8. Delete all of the files in the %SystemRoot%\System32\Wbem\Repository folder.
9. Restart the computer.
The files that were deleted are re-created when the computer restarts. NOTE: The
Windows Management Instrumentation service starts automatically when you restart the
computer.
If none of the above helps, replace your Boot.ini. In most cases it has to do with more than one
OS being listed.
Go to Start/Run and type in: msconfig. Then go to the Boot.ini Tab and click on Check All Boot
Paths. If you receive a warning about a duplicate path: Do you want to remove, choose yes.
Or...
Right click the My Computer icon/Properties/Advanced/Startup and Recovery/Settings/System
Startup/Edit.
How to Edit the BOOT.INI File in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/Q289/0/22.asp
How to Use System Information (MSINFO32) Switches

MSINFO32 displays a comprehensive view of your hardware, system components, and software
environment. This article provides an overview of the available switches that can be used with the
MSINFO32 command.
Using these switches, MSINFO32 can be used to:
Use System Information from a batch file
Create .nfo or .txt files that contain information from specified categories.
Open System Information and display only specific categories.
Save a file silently (without opening System Information).
Start System Information connected to a remote computer.
Create a shortcut that opens System Information in a commonly used configuration.
To open System Information in History view, type: msinfo32 /pch
To create an .nfo file in the folder C:\TEMP with a name of TEST.NFO, type: msinfo32 /nfo
C:\TEMP\TEST.NFO
To create a .TXT file in the folder C:\TEMP with a name of TEST.TXT, type: msinfo32 /report
C:\TEMP\TEST.NFO
To view System Information from a remote computer with a UNC name of BIGSERVER, type:
msinfo32 /computer BIGSERVER
To list the available category IDs, type: msinfo32 /showcategories
To start System Information with all available information displayed, except Loaded Modules,
type:
msinfo32 /categories +all -loadedmodules
To create an .nfo file called SYSSUM.NFO in the C:\TEMP folder that contains information in
the System Summary category, type: msinfo32 /nfo C:\TEMP\SYSSUM.NFO /categories
+systemsummary
To create a .NFO file called CONFLICTS.NFO in the C:\TEMP folder that contains information
about resource conflicts, type: msinfo32 /nfo C:\TEMP\CONFLICTS.NFO /categories
+componentsproblemdevices+resourcesconflicts+resourcesforcedhardware
Msdart.dll Problems, Error Messages and Workarounds and Suggestions
"The procedure entry point GetIUMS could not be found in the dynamic link library
MSDART.DLL."
1. This is caused by Windows XP improperly naming the msdart dll file. Download (save)
DARTFIX.BAT to your desktop and click on it. This will make a copy of MSDART.DLL and
name it MSDART32.DLL. It will be placed in the Windows/System32 directory. This should
allow you to run the InfoBase CD.
2. Start/Search for file msdart*.* on your computer.
Should be found in:
C:\I386

C:\Winnt or Windows\System32
C:\Winnt or Windows\ServicePackFiles\i386
3. Microsoft Data Access Components (MDAC) 2.8
"unregmp2.exe - Entry Point Not Found - The procedure entry point GetIUMS could not be
located in the dynamic link library MSDART.DLL".
When the problem occurs, press Shift +F10 to bring up the command prompt. Then type
taskmgr.exe in the DOS window
and press Enter. The Task Manager should be started. If not, try to press C+Shift+ESC. In the Task
Manager program, select the error message window in the
application list and click "End Task". In the process list, terminate the unregmp2.exe program.
Exit the DOS prompt window and resume the installation process.
Note: In some cases: There is another step needed - killing the error may not be enough.
Shift+F10, kill the process, WinXP should continue loading, and around 23 MORE minutes left to
go, the monitor will flash several times. Don't panic.
Once loaded, get past the "Microsoft in a box" screens: next, finish. Once on the desktop, log in a
user with system admin capabilities (hopefully you still have one). Go to
C:\windows\sr.inf. Right click and select Install. It will ask for sr.sys. Get this OFF the CD!!! The
one on C: is corrupt. On the CD, under the I386
folder, you will find sr.sy_. Double click it and it SHOULD decompress itself and load.
(Microsoft tech suggests as a convenience, load directory
I386 from CD to C: (root) for ease of use NEXT TIME you have a problem!
That is the fix for the MSDart, repair/reinstall WinXP problem.
2. The next problem to fix will be the DSL and WinSta.dll problems. Your instructions from your
ISP tells you to use the Network Connection
Wizard and do some stuff, then select Broadband, use user ID and password. However, the Wizard
has disabled this option. AND you find you cannot make
system restore points. And if you open up My Computer, right click on some white space in the
window and click properties, you will get 'procedure
entry point RemoteAssistancePrepareSystemRestore could not be located in the dynamic link
library winsta.dll. These problems are solved simultaneously
by:
a. Right click My Computer. Manage, Services and Applications, Services. Find Remote Access
Connection Manager (on either tab). Right click,
Properties. On the General tab, Startup Type listbox, change Manual to Automatic. Apply. Ok.
Restart your machine.
b. Log in as a user that has System Admin capabilities. Start, Run, Regedit. Find
HKLM\system\Current Control Set\services\rasman\ppp\eap.
Export the node by selecting, File, Export. (This creates a backup in case of screw-up. If you don't
know how to import, maybe you shouldn't be doing
this.) Once this is done, under EAP is a folder/key 25. Delete it. Also delete folder/key 26. (These
are the keys for the connection wizard. MS
will not tell you how to modify the keys for the desired result, you must delete them. Or run this

edit.
c. Reboot.
Now you SHOULD be able to connect to DSL or recreate your connection as per your ISP's
instructions. System restore will now work. You should perhaps
create a restore point for fun. Start, Help, Performance and maintenance, Using System Restore to
undo changes, Run the System Restore Wizard, Create
a system restore point.
BTW, you cannot create a dial-up connection using the Wizard. To do this, bring up your browser.
If IE, select tools, Internet Options,
connections tab. Select Add. Dial up to private network, next, phone number .. Once done, the
connection will be listed with the Network
Wizards and other connections you have off Start, Settings.. or Control Panel, Network
Connections.
If these fixes didn't work, MS's next solution involves installing XP to a separate place on your
machine. This too ought not remove your data. Once
installed, your DATA, not applications, should be transferrable between OSs. The last option you
don't want to know!
Note: If these do not work, call Microsoft: 1-800-936-4900. You get TWO whole free calls to
them if encountering problems during installation. (Take
copious notes!). Reference.
Last resort:
How to perform an in-place upgrade (reinstallation) of Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?kbid=315341&FR=1

MS-DOS or 16-bit Windows-based program Error Message
This installation program will reinstall the missing or corrupt Windows XP system files
command.com, autoexec.nt and config.nt. The absence or corruption of one or more of these files
causes a "16 Bit Subsystem" error.
XP_Fix.EXE by TRF Systems, Inc.
http://www.visualtour.com/downloads/xp_fix.exe
From Ron:
Running Audit on my computer showed that a program called
WINDUPDATE.EXE (not WINUPDATE.EXE) was deleting my Autoexec.nt file on boot
up. If I replaced the file it would delete it again. Go to \Program
Files\WINDUPDATE folder and delete it!
Go to your registry and delete anything named WINDUPDATE. Put the Autoexec.nt
file back into your \system32 folder and all is well! This was definately the
problem here and I bet most everyone has the same nasty bugger, WINDUPDATE.EXE
on their infected computer.

Another note and workaround:
C:\Windows\System32\Autoexec.nt The system file is not suitable for running MS-DOS and
Microsoft Windows applications. Choose 'Close' to terminate the application.
This problem just started around mid August 2004, so I suspect it to be related to a recent
Microsoft Update that you may have downloaded for Windows XP.
HomeSchool Easy Records (the current version) is a Windows program (not a DOS program) but
it is a "16 bit" Windows program. Apparently HER and other 16 bit Windows programs will run
into this error when you try to run them. Note: HER version 3, now in the works, is a 32 bit
Windows program, so it won't be prone to this problem.
There is a cure. Please read the following tip and follow the steps to reinstall three files:
autoexec.nt, config.nt, and command.com
Side note: You also want to look for the file "windupdate.exe" (note the spelling closely -- the 'd')
and if you find it anywhere on your hard drive, delete it! This is a secondary problem and you are
not very likely to find this file. But if you have it, it actually deletes the autoexec.nt file each time
you start your PC, so even if you restore the file, it will get deleted again!
Here is the tip originally posted to the Internet by Spencer Greystrong:
This article http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;324767 is the Microsoft
response to that error message. The fix involves expanding the original files from your XP CD
and overwriting. The problem with that solution is that many people do not have the original CD.
[So the links below were created so you can get the files directly].
When you click on either link below you will see a file-download window appear. Click on the
"Open" button and you will get a WinZip self-extractor window. Leave the "Unzip to folder" set
to "c:\windows\system32" and leave the "Overwrite files without prompting" check box checked.
Ignore the yellow warning sign (this is trustworthy code). Click on the "Unzip" button. The files
will save to your hard drive. Then click on the "Close" button.
For Windows XP Professional click on this link:
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/spencer.greystrong/XPProfiles.exe
Will read as: DPF: {15AD4789-CDB4-47E1-A9DA-992EE8E6BAD6} http://public.windupdates.com/get_file.php?
bt=ie&p=5b2f12423f01fa3f255a10cc9af8f7b5d60c0438ad44fd2a1a760d51c0241936773ca04aab
077905855565abe08139a2080b:c7857c068f27d7cc50f91b20c15a3e0e
MSEvents.MSEvents and MSEvents.MSEvents.1
This one is tricky, I must admit and takes a bit of work; however, it gets the job done. For those
of you who are getting the MSEvents Object and/or Winlogon Notify (both in most cases) via
HijackThis, this will help:
1. Download Process Explorer from Sysinternals and save it to your desktop:
Download Process Explorer (x86 - 566 KB) - you plan on using Process Explorer on 32-bit
NT/2K/XP/Server 2003 or

Download Process Explorer (x64 - 566 KB) - you plan on using Process Explorer on 64-bit
XP/Server 2003
2. Modify this reg file to the CLSID (.dll) in question, beings it varies. In the cases here it was
gebyx.dll. Once done copy and paste into Notepad (Start/Run: Notepad)
and save with a .reg extension and save to your desktop. Note: You would be modifying lines:
1, 2 and 7.
Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00
[-HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\CLSID\{6DD0BC06-4719-4BA3-BEBCFBAE6A448152}]
[-HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\{6DD0BC06-4719-4BA3-BEBC-FBAE6A448152}]
[-HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\MSEvents.MSEvents]
[-HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\MSEvents.MSEvents.1]
[-HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\MSEvents.MSEvents]
[-HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\MSEvents.MSEvents.1]
[-HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows
NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon\Notify\gebyx]
Can be downloaded here as is: ridmsevents.reg
3. Turn off System Restore: Right click My Computer/Properties/System Restore.
4. Now boot into Safe Mode, to do so: Go to Start/Run/Msconfig/Boot.ini and check off:
/SafeBoot
Note: When done in Safe Mode, revert before rebooting.
5. Then open Windows Explorer, under your local drive and delete: !Submit. From there scroll
down to Winnt or Windows\System32 and delete: gebyx.dll
Also, delete the Prefetch Folder (ex. C:\Winnt\Prefetch) and clear out all temp files and
cookies.
Added Tip: To get a better idea of what you are dealing with: Go to Start/Search - go to When
was it modified? Click, Specify Date and change the date from and to to the exact date of the
Application Extension entry. From there it will list each item of interest. In my case, it had 8
listings of the .dll stored in my HJT backup folder and two other entries: !Submit under my root
drive and System32\gebyx.
6. Once in Safe Mode, load procepxp.exe (which is the Process Explorer mentioned earlier).
a. Double click on Winlogon on the left side, once the new window opens, select Threads.
b. Select each instance of the .dll in question and then use the Kill button. Once done hit the
Ok button.
c. From there scroll down to Explorer.exe and do the same there.
7. Once done, run the regedit you modified.
8. Final step is to run HijackThis now either manually or by clicking here: hijackthisnow
Select both the listings: MSEvents Object and/or Winlogon Notify, Fix checked.
Note: Empty the backup folder once complete, either altogether or hand select.

9. Undo /SafeBoot via Start/Run/Msconfig, then reboot.
10. Turn System Restore back on.
Msmsgs.exe has encountered a problem and needs to close. We are sorry for the
inconvenience.
Ole32.dll May Cause an Error Message in Windows XP
msmqocm.inf - Setup was unable to open information file msmqocm.inf. Contact your
system administrator.
Go to Windows\inf. In the right pane scroll down to msmqocm.inf. Right click it and choose
install.
If it isn't listed ...
Go to Windows\inf. In the right pane scroll down to sysoc.inf. Open it in Notepad and remove this
line:
msmq=msmqocm.dll,MsmqOcm,msmqocm.inf,,6
MSN Explorer - Outlook Express Doesn't Access POP3 accounts
From: http://www.explorer.msn.com/setuphelp.htm
MSN Explorer uses a new e-mail program. This program is based on MSN Hotmail, a Web-based
e-mail service. When you upgrade to MSN Explorer, your e-mail Inbox will be converted
automatically from POP3 e-mail to Web-based e-mail. All of your new e-mail will come to you in
MSN Explorer.
Important details about your e-mail and newsgroups are:
You will not lose any e-mail.
Your e-mail address will not change.
You will receive all your new e-mail in MSN Explorer instead of Outlook Express.
Your old e-mail will remain in Outlook Express, and you will be able to see it there.
Your address book will be copied to MSN Explorer. It will also remain in Outlook Express.
You can access your newsgroups through Outlook Express.
You can access your e-mail from a computer connected to the Internet anywhere in the world.
You cannot switch your e-mail account back to your previous program by uninstalling MSN
Explorer and reinstalling a prior version of MSN Internet Access. Click here to learn how to set up
Outlook Express to access your new e-mail account. (Note: there is no link here as you must be an
MSN user to access this page)
Web based e-mail does not require Outlook Express, so some e-mail features have changed. For
example, your address book is now web-based so you can access information on your contacts
from any computer.
MSN/MSN Explorer
MSN Help and Support

Adding Additional MSN Internet Access Accounts With Microsoft Windows XP
Cannot Compose a New E-mail Message in Internet Explorer If MSN Explorer Is the Default Email Client
Cannot Remove MSN Explorer User Tile(s) In Windows XP--Deleted Tiles Reappear On
Welcome Screen
Cannot Set MSN Explorer as Default E-mail Client
MSN Explorer Version 6.0 No Longer Supported Error Message
Cannot Use MSN EXPLORER or AOL To Send a Remote Assistance Invitation via Email Option
Can't Type In Body Of E-mail Window in MSN Explorer
Can't Add New User In MSN Explorer--Account Manager Password Not Accepted
Err Msg: File Does Not Have a Program Associated with It
How To Disable The Internet Connection Firewall In Windows XP
How to Locate Your Version of MSN Explorer
MSN Explorer Sign In Screen Activates Unexpectedly
MSN Explorer Dials But Does Not Connect
MSN Explorer Hangs When Outlook XP Requests Data From The Server
Offline E-mail Features in MSN Explorer--For MSN Internet Access Subscribers
OL2000: Outlook Does Not Receive MSN E-mail Messages (also applies to OE and other
Outlook versions)
Reset To POP3 E-mail From A Web-based E-mail Account In MSN Explorer
Transition From MSN E-mail To MSN Explorer E-mail
MSN/Windows Messenger Resources Tips, Help and Support for MSN and Windows Messenger
Multi-Boot
Multibooting with Windows XP: Introduction
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How to Multiple Boot Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows 95, Windows 98,
and MS-DOS
HOW TO: Create a Multiple-Boot System in Windows XP
How to Enable Dual Boot After You Install Windows Me on a Windows 2000-based Computer
How to Install Windows 98 after Installing Windows XP
How to Install W2K to its Own Partition after Installing Windows XP
Multibooting with Windows XP
Multibooting with Windows 2000 and Windows XP
BootIt NG is a partition and multi boot manager with a powerful and simple to use set of tools for
partitioning, imaging, and multi-booting your computer. It combines the features of several
standalone products costing hundreds of dollars more.
Multi-Media
Music: Get Started Enjoying Music on Your PC

Music: Copy Tracks from a CD
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Music: Create Your Own CDs
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Music: Tune In the Globe
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Multi-Monitor

Multiple Monitor Settings May Change After Upgrade to Windows XP
Troubleshooting and Configuring Multiple Monitors in Windows XP
My Briefcase
HOW TO: Use the Briefcase Feature in Windows XP
Tip: How to get "My Briefcase" in Windows XP - Go to C:\WINDOWS\System32\dllcache.
Look for a file named
"syncapp". Double click it. An icon should appear on your desktop that says "My
Briefcase". Double click it.
My Computer
How to make My Computer' open in Explore mode with folder list. In My Computer click Tools
menu, and then click Options. Click the File Types tab. In the list of file types, highlight "(NONE)
Folders". Click Advanced button, In the Actions box, highlight "Explore" Click "Set Default"
My Computer Information
Start/Help and Support/Use Tools to view your computer information and diagnose problems.
"View general system information about this computer"
"View the status of my system hardware and software"
"Find information about the hardware installed on this computer"
"View a list of Microsoft software installed on this computer"
"View detailed system information (Msinfo32.exe)"
"View running services"
"View Group Policy settings applied"
"View the error log"
"View information for another computer"
Description of My Computer Information Tool in Help and Support
My Computer Icon - Displays My Documents Folders of Other User
Create a NoSharedDocuments string value in the following registry key and set the data value to
1.
For All Users: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
For Only Users That Are Logged on to the Computer: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
My Computer - Incorrect Message
Incorrect "Prevent Access to Drives from My Computer" Informational Message
My Computer - Rename

Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\ {20D04FE0-3AEA-1069-A2D8-08002B30309D}. Data Type:
REG_EXPAND_SZ (Expanded String Value). Rename the value named "LocalizedString" to
"LocalizedString.old". Create a new REG_EXPAND_SZ value named "LocalizedString", and set
the value to "%USERNAME% on %COMPUTERNAME%". Exit the registry editor, click on
your desktop and press F5 (for refresh). The "My Computer" icon should now be rename to
"Username on Computername".
My Computer - System Information
Quick access to your whole system. Simply click and drag your My Computer icon onto the Task
Bar near the right side icons next to the clock. This will create a cascading menu from where you
can easily access just about anything on your system.
My Documents - Cascade
This tweak makes the 'My Documents' folder on the Start Menu into a cascading folder, which
then give you direct access to sub-folders without having to open the main 'My Documents'
directory first. Start/Run/Regedit.
You may need to create the key if it does not already exist. Create a new String value, or modify
the existing value, called 'CascadeMyDocuments' and edit the value according to the settings
below.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
Value Name: CascadeMyDocuments
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value)
Value Data: "Yes" or "No"
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Note: This setting can be used either on a user by user basis by adding it to
HKEY_CURRENT_USER or on a computer wide basis by adding it to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE.
My Documents Folder - Opens Upon Boot
To Stop Windows Explorer from opening My Documents: Check your settings here:
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
In the right pane under Userinit - Change the key that reads:
C:\Windows\System32\Userinit.exe,C:\Windows\System32\Userinit.exe
To:
C:\Windows\System32\Userinit.exe,
And also here: Start/Run/Regedit
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows. In the

right pane, check your settings under Load.
This problem can be caused by the DlDer Trojan. More information here:
http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/w32.dlder.html
Tip: This utility lists everything that opens on startup with an undo:
http://www.vtoy.fi/jv16/shtml/powertools.shtml
My Documents Folder - Move
In Explorer right click on "My Documents", and select "Properties", then in the target box enter
your new location.
Another option is TweakUI - XP Powertoys
Change the Default Location of the My Documents Folder
How to Move Shell Folders and Contents
My Documents Folder - Change the Windows Explorer Default Startup Folder
To change the default startup folder for Windows Explorer:
Click Start, point to All Programs , point to Accessories , and then right-click Windows Explorer.
On the menu that appears, click Properties.
In the Target box, append the "/root" command-line switch to the "%SystemRoot%\Explorer.exe"
command, using the startup location that you want. For example, if you want Windows Explorer
to start at the root of drive C, edit the command to the following: %SystemRoot%\Explorer.exe
/root, C:\. To have C open expanded: explorer /n,/e,c:\. An additional tip, the command line
EXPLORER.SCF works just as well. And/or: Start/Run and enter: ""explorer.exe/n,/e,::
{20D04FE0-3AEA-1069-A2D8-08002B30309D}"" from command, or make a shortcut.
HOW TO: Customize the Windows Explorer Views
My Documents Folder - Limit Number of Documents Listed (and others options)
If you want to limit the Documents list: MaxRecentDocs. Specifies the number of shortcuts
displayed on the Recent Documents submenu. Note: use Dword - decimal value (default=15).
Start/Run/Regedit
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
"NoRecentDocsHistory"=dword:00000000
"NoRecentDocsMenu"=dword:00000000
"ClearRecentDocsOnExit"=dword:00000000
"NoRecentDocsNetHood"=hex:01,00,00,00
"MaxRecentDocs"=dword:00000014
My Documents Folder - Remove From Desktop
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\CLSID\
{450D8FBA-AD25-11D0-98A8-0800361B1103}\ShellFolder
Value Name: Attributes

Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0xf0500174 = Hidden, 0xf0400174 = Default)
Modify the value called "Attributes" and set it to either "0xf0500174" to hide or "0xf0400174" to
display My Documents.
Click on a blank area of desktop and press F5 to refresh for the change to take effect. Note: This
tweak can also by used on a system wide basis by entering the same values under the
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE] hive.
My Network Places - Display on Desktop - Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\HideDe
sktopIcons\
NewStartPanel. Once there, locate {208D2C60-3AEA-1069-A2D7-08002B30309D} in the list
on the right. Right click on it and select Modify. Change the value equal to 0. Reboot your
computer.
My Pictures
Windows XP KB Articles About Working With Pictures
My Pictures - Change My Pictures Link Into Menu
Right-click a blank area of the taskbar and select Properties. Select the Start Menu tab, and with
"Start menu" selected, click the Customize button. Click the Advanced tab, and under Start menu
items, scroll down and select the "Display as a menu" radio button under My Pictures. Click OK,
and now you can open any My Pictures image right from the Start menu: Select Start, My
Pictures, [subfolder(s), if applicable], [filename].
My Pictures - Delete Images in the My Pictures Folder
If you receive an error message which says: Cannot Delete Filename, Access Is Denied, The
Source File May Be In Use, you may have tried to delete an image from the My Pictures folder or
from another folder.
Microsoft notes that if Web view is enabled, and you open the My Pictures folder or any
customized folder that uses the Image Preview template, selected images display in the Image
Preview window and are considered in use.
So, while the image is being drawn, a Generating Preview...message displays in the Image
Preview window, and the file locks up so you cannot delete it. To disable Web view, select Folder
Options from the Tools menu, then click the General tab's Use Windows Classic Folders option.
My Pictures - Film Strip
Filmstrip view allows you to see the contents of a My Pictures folder one at a time, as if you were
viewing a filmstrip. When the first picture appears at the top of the file list, use the Next Image
and Previous Image buttons to rotate through all images in the folder. When you’re finished,
choose another View option to make the filmstrip disappear.
My Pictures - Slide Show

Want the full-screen view instead? On the left side of the screen, under Picture Tasks, select ‘View
as a slide show.’ Click the screen to advance to the next picture (or wait -- the pictures advance
automatically every five seconds), and when you’re finished, press the Esc key on your keyboard.
My Pictures - Slideshow Screen Saver
Do you have some favorite photos in the My Pictures folder? How would you like to view a slide
show that displays them every time your screen saver kicks in?
Right-click the desktop, select Properties and click the Screen Saver tab. Under Screen Saver,
click the down arrow and select My Pictures Slideshow. Adjust the minutes of inactivity before
the show kicks in, then click OK.
Tip: Want to use photos in a folder other than My Pictures (for example, if you have your
favorites in a subfolder of My
Pictures)? Follow the steps above, but before clicking OK, click the Settings button.
Click Browse, select the
folder in which the pictures are stored, then click OK twice.
If you'd prefer a plain show, turn off the special effects. Follow the steps above, but before
clicking OK, click the Settings button. Deselect "Use transition effects between pictures," then
click OK.
Want a bit of control over the slide show? Once the screen saver kicks in, use the right or left
arrow keys on your keyboard to move forward or backward, respectively, one picture at a time.
(Tip: If these keys don't work, go to the Screen Saver tab of the Display Properties dialog box,
click the Settings button, select "Allow scrolling through pictures with the keyboard," then click
OK.)
My Pictures and My Music
My Pictures and My Music Not Created in XP Upgrade from W98SE
HOW TO: Arrange Files Using Folder Views
My Recent Documents
Remove Recent Documents from the Start Menu
This setting can be used to remove the recent Documents folder from the Start Menu. Open your
registry (Start/Run/Regedit) and find the key below.
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
Value Name: NoRecentDocsMenu
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = display, 1 = remove)
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'NoRecentDocsMenu' set the

value to equal '1' to enable the restriction. Exit your registry, you may need to restart for the
changes to take effect.
Clear Recent Documents on Exit
Go to - Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key. Once there, change the value to 1.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer\Clear
RecentDocsOnExit
HOW TO: Display, Use, and Clear "My Recent Documents" on the Start Menu in Windows XP

~
N
~
Name - Change Registered Owner
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion. In the right
pane, double click RegisteredOwner and change the Value data.
Or you can use this automated script:
Change Registered Owner and Organization (Line 7)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Name and Company - For Microsoft Applications
When you install a new application, using MS Setup, a default Name and Company are shown,
these values can be changed when the details have changed or are incorrect. Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\MS Setup (ACME)\User Info
Value Name: DefName, DefCompany
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value)
Modify the two values named 'DefName' and 'DefCompany', and change the values to your
current Name and Company respectively. The next time you install a program these new values
will be used as the defaults instead. Note: This will not affect the registered names of existing
applications, it only affects new installations.
NetBeui - How to Install
1. Insert your Windows XP CD-ROM into the CD-ROM drive and browse to the
Valueadd\MSFT\Net\NetBEUI folder.
2. Copy Nbf.sys to the %SYSTEMROOT%\System32\Drivers directory.
3. Copy Netnbf.inf to the %SYSTEMROOT%\Inf hidden directory.
4. Click Start, click "Control Panel", and then double-click "Network Connections".

5. Right-click the adapter you want to add NetBEUI to, and then click Properties.
6. On the General tab, click Install.
7. Click Protocol, and then click Add.
8. Click to select "NetBEUI Protocol" from the list and then click OK.
9. Restart your computer if you receive a prompt to complete the installation.
Tip: Copy NBF.SYS and NETNBF.INI from the Win2K installation to a floppy. Remove all
"CopyFile" and
"DestinationDir" related comments from the inf. Open network
connections/properties/install/protocol/have
disk/..Add NetBeui
HOW TO: Install NetBEUI on Windows XP
Netgear - Network Interface Cards
Windows XP Support Information
NetMeeting - Run, Remove and Reinstall
Run:
Start/Run/conf.exe
Remove: Start/Run/RunDll32 advpack.dll,LaunchINFSection
C:\WINDOWS\inf\msnetmtg.inf,NetMtg.Remove
Reinstall: To reinstall, open the Windows\Inf folder (this is a hidden folder, so you may need to
adjust your Folder Options
to show hidden files and folders. Or you can click Start, Run and enter %systemroot
%\Inf). Locate the
msnetmtg.inf file in the Inf folder. Right click and select Install. Have your XP CD
handy.
Tip: Clear Netmeeting Call History - Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Conferencing\UI\CallMRU. Open your
registry and delete the key
mentioned. Restart Netmeeting for the change to take effect.
Troubleshooting with Windows NetMeeting Support
Network - Joining a Network
If you want to connect to a network during Setup, you must have the correct hardware installed on
your computer and be connected to your network. If you will be using a network, first determine
whether your computer is joining a domain or a workgroup.
If you're not sure, select Workgroup when you are prompted during Setup. (You can always join a
domain later, after Windows XP Professional is installed.) Any computer user can join a
workgroup—you don’t need special administrative permissions. You must provide an existing or
new workgroup name, or you can use the workgroup name that Windows XP Professional
suggests during Setup.
If you select Domain ask your network administrator to create a new computer account in that
domain or to reset your existing account. Joining a domain requires permission from the network
administrator.

Joining a domain during Setup requires a computer account to identify your computer to the
domain you want to join. If you’re upgrading, Setup uses your existing computer account; or if
there isn’t one, Setup prompts you to provide a new computer account.
Ask your network administrator to create a computer account before you begin Setup. Or, if you
have the appropriate privileges, you can create the account yourself and join the domain during
Setup. To join a domain during Setup, you need to provide your domain user name and password.
Unless you're an advanced user, it's recommended you use the default settings.
Networking - Can't connect to computers in your network
1. Click start button
2. Click "My Network Places"
3. Right-click and click on "Properties"
4. Right-click on "Local Area Connection" and click on "Properties"
5. click on the "Authentication" tab
6. Uncheck "Enable network access control using IEEE 802.1X"
7. Click "OK"
MS-MVP Steve Winograd's Networking FAQ and Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About
Peer-to-Peer Networking in Windows 95/98/Me/2000/XP:
http://sfwinograd.home.attbi.com/faq.htm
Networking Troubleshooter
World of Windows Networking
Adding Windows XP to an Existing Network
Windows XP KB Articles About Networking
Unsuccessful Completion of the Home Networking Wizard
How To Configure Broadband Connections Using PPPoE
Automatic Configuration for Multiple Networks
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Network - Shares
This restriction stops remote shared folders from being added to Network Places whenever you
open a document in the shared folder. Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key: (Per
user/Per system)
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called "NoRecentDocsNetHood" and
set it according to
(0 = track shares, 1 = disable tracking). Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of
Windows for the change to take effect.
New Command - Add To
Create a blank document in Wordpad and Save it. Run TweakUI for XP and go to the Templates
tab. Select Create. Point the file dialog to the file you just saved. Click Apply. It will be listed as
Rich Text Format in the Templates list.
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Word.RTF.8. Change the default value to Wordpad Document (default
is Rich Text Format).

New Command - Add "NEW" Text file to the Context Menu.
Copy and paste the following lines into a Notepad file, ensuring there is an extra blank line at the
end. Save the file as a REG file. Double click the REG file you just saved and answer yes to the
import prompt.
------------- copy below this line ----------------------Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.txt\ShellNew]
"NullFile"=""
------------- copy above this line ------------------------New Command - Clear
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.<extension>\ShellNew sub key. Right click and select Delete.
New Command Missing in Windows Explorer
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Directory\Background\shellex\ ContextMenuHandlers\New. Value
Name: (Default), Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value), Value Data: {D969A300-E7FF-11d0A93B-00A0C90F2719} Open your registry and verify that the key listed below has the value
listed, and if needed, edit the value to match the value listed.
Newly Installed Programs - Disable Alert
Click Start, right-click at the top of the Start menu where your name is displayed, and then click
Properties. In the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties dialog box, on the Start Menu tab, click
Customize. Click the Advanced tab, and then clear the Highlight newly installed programs check
box. Click OK, and then click OK again.
Newsgroups
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microsoft.public.windowsxp.general
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microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support
Windows XP Newsgroups
Non-Responding Programs/Apps at Shutdown
You can tell Windows XP to automatically close all non responding windows. Go to
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop and set the value to 1.
Auto End Tasks and Wait to Kill Timeout for Shutdown (Line 76)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
This edit allows you to configure Windows so that you receive verbose startup, shutdown, logon,
and logoff status messages. This may be helpful to in troubleshooting slow startup, shutdown,
logon, or logoff behavior.
Startup/Shutdown/Logon/Logoff Status Messages (Line 69)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Notification Area
Chevron is missing: For some users, setting the very first icon to Always Hide, restores the arrow.
Icons are missing or disappear, reappear: This generally happens for most Auto-Logon users.
Methods/workarounds: Log off and Log back on, password protect your account or disable SSDP

and uPNP Services.
Disable SSDP and uPNP Services (Line 156)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Or if you are running XP SP1 uninstall UPnP from Add/Remove Windows Components.
Hide or Show Inactive Icons in the Notification Area (Line 53)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Remove Past Items From the Notification Area (Line 53)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Once done, Open Task Manager, click the Processes tab, click Explorer.exe, and then click End
Process. In Task Manager, click File, click New Task, type explorer, and then click OK.
Classic Theme and Notification Area:
If you are using the Windows Classic theme in Windows XP, the icons in the notification area on
the right side of the taskbar may disappear when you select a High Contrast scheme in the Color
Schemes box on the Appearance tab.
To work around this problem, right-click a blank area of the taskbar, and then click Lock the
Taskbar. Or, change the size of the taskbar, and then restore it.
Volume Control disappears in the Notification Area:
Save Settings on Exit (Line 54)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the Regedit: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting
Edit.
Norton - Disable the Norton Anti Virus Splash Screen
This setting will stop the Norton AntiVirus Scanner startup logo from being shown. Open your
registry and find the key below. Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value,
named "DisableSplashScreen" and set it to equal "1" to disable the splash screen. The next time
Norton AV is run the splash screen should not be display. Start/Run/Regedit
Key: [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Symantec\Norton AntiVirus\Clinic]
Value Name: DisableSplashScreen
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = enable splash, 1 = disabled splash)
Norton - Uninstall
How to Use the Norton SystemWorks Cleanup Utility
How to Uninstall Norton SystemWorks 2002 Manually from Windows XP
How to Manually Uninstall Norton Utilities 2002 for Windows NT/2000/XP
How to Uninstall Norton AntiVirus 2002 Manually When Installed Under Windows NT/2000/XP

Notepad
Change the Default Action for Script Files. Normally scripting files are run when double clicked,
once applied this
tweak will cause them to be shown in Notepad instead. This is useful to avoid accidental
execution especially with the prevalence of script based viruses.
Open your registry (Start/Run/Regedit) and for each key below change the value of "(Default)" to
equal "Edit". This will change the default action so that the script will be loaded in Notepad.exe
(or another specified text editor).
JS Files
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\JSFile\Shell]
JSE Files
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\JSEFile\Shell]
VBE Files
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\VBEFile\Shell]
VBS Files
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\VBSFile\Shell]
WSH Files
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\WSHFile\Shell]
WSF Files
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\WSFFile\Shell]
In addition you can change the default editor for each script type be changing the "(Default)"
value under the [...\Shell\Edit\Command] sub-key.
Restart Windows for the change to take effect.
Note: Scripts can still be executed normally by right-clicking the file and selecting "Open" from
the context menu.
Registry Settings
Value Name: (Default)
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value)
Value Data: ("Edit" = set Edit as default)
Notepad - Date and Time
Open Notepad and type: .LOG and then hit enter. Close, re-open. Anything you add from that
point on with have the date and time it was amended.
Notepad Word Wrap
Notepad has an option in it that allows you to have words wrap to the next line if you begin typing
too far over. One little quirk is that when you're printing, regardless of the word wrap setting,
Windows and the printer will automatically wrap printed text for you based on the margins of the

printer. You can change these margins, if necessary, from the Page Setup menu located within the
File menu of Notepad.
Notification Area - Hide Icons
Windows XP provides a number of options for customizing what Microsoft has decided to call the
"Notification Area" of your Taskbar (the area that displays the clock and a number of icons). By
default, Windows XP hides any inactive icons here. But if you prefer, you can choose to hide (or
show) individual icons all the time.
For example, suppose you want to keep the Volume and Synchronization Manager icons out of
site, regardless of how often you use them. Right click a blank area of the Taskbar and select
Properties. Under Notification area, click Customize. Alternatively, Right click a blank area of the
Notifications Area and select Customize Notifications.
One at a time, select the Volume and Synchronization Manager icons, then Right click the down
arrow next to it and select Always hide (in the same way, you could select any icon and choose the
"Always show" option). Click OK twice, and now, an arrow appears on the edge of the
Notifications Area. Click it to display the hidden icons.
Notification Area - Hidden Chevron Missing
For some users setting the very first icon to Always Hide, restores the arrow. This behavior seems
to come into effect when one uses an icon on the System Tray. Also be certain that the "behavior"
of each of each icon is what you want it to be. Right-click each, to make changes.
Notification Area - Icons Disappearing
This happens for most Auto-Logon users. Three methods/workarounds: Log off and Log back on,
password protect your account or disable SSDP and uPNP Services.
Automated Edit:
Disable SSDP and uPNP Services (Line 156)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual Edit:
Right click My Computer/Manage. Expand Services and Applications then Click on Services. A
list of services appears in the right column. Scroll down to the the SSDP and uPnP Service. Right
click each, choose properties. Change the text next to "Startup type:" to Disabled.
Or, if you are running XP SP1 uninstall UPnP from Add/Remove Windows Components.
Hide or Show Inactive Icons in the Notification Area (Line 53)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Tip: Volume Control disappears in the Notification Area. Once present, run this edit.
Save Settings on Exit (Line 54)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

To use the Regedit: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting
Edit.
Notification Area - Remove Past Icons
Start/Run/Regedit
Delete the IconStreams and PastIconsStream values from the following registry key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\TrayNotify
Remove Past Items From the Notification Area (Line 53)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Once done, Open Task Manager, click the Processes tab, click Explorer.exe, and then click End
Process. In Task Manager, click File, click New Task, type explorer, and then click OK.
How to Clear Past Items from the Notification Area
Notification Area - Remove/Restrict Icons
Start/Run/Regedit: You may need to create the key if it does not already exist.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Value Name: NoTrayItemsDisplay
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = default, 1 = enable restriction)
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'NoTrayItemsDisplay' and edit
the value according to the settings below. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of
Windows for the change to take effect.
Notification Area - Safely Remove Hardware
Restore Safely Remove Hardware Icon (Line 5)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual Fix:
Restore Safely Remove Hardware icon:
RunDll32.exe shell32.dll,Control_RunDLL hotplug.dll
NMI
Hardware that Requires the Non-Maskable Interrupt May Stop Working
NTFS
How to Use Convert.exe to Convert a Partition to NTFS
The Free Space That Is Required to Convert FAT to NTFS
Best Practices for NTFS Compression

FAT & NTFS File Systems in Windows XP
Converting FAT32 to NTFS in Windows XP
"NTFS Reader for DOS" is a freeware tool that provides read access to NTFS partitions within the
MS-DOS environment. You can preview files on NTFS and copy files from NTFS to FAT
volumes or network drives. Product's interface is easy-to-use. Can be run from DOS bootable
floppy.
These important features allow you: Save and run from bootable floppy; Display complete
physical and logical drive information; Support IDE / ATA / SCSI drives; Support large (more
than 8GB) Hard Drive Support NTFS, NTFS5 file systems for reading; Support FAT12, FAT16,
FAT32 file systems for data writing; Support compressed and fragmented files on NTFS; Support
partitions created in MS-DOS, Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP Display non-english and long
file names; Preview file(s)/folder(s) before copying; Support search by file name or mask; Display
content of the file in Hex/Text mode by Disk Viewer." Free Download.
This application allows users to read an NT File System from a DOS bootdisk!
http://www.webpromo-inc.com/bootdisksite/readntfs.asp
NTKRNLMP.EXE
Installing Just the Checked Operating System and HAL
Numlock
Use this vb script or go to - Click Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY CURRENT USER\Control Panel\Keyboard\InitialKeyboardIndicators
0 = numberlock off
2 = numberlock on
If you want the numlock on at the Welcome Screen you also need to change:
HKEY USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Keyboard\InitialKeyboardIndicators (same number
values as above).
Or...
Create a Notepad file and copy the following two lines into it.
set WshShell = CreateObject("WScript.Shell")
WshShell.SendKeys "{NUMLOCK}"
Save the file with a VBS extension. Create a shortcut to the VBS file you just saved in your Start
Menu, Programs, Startup folder.

~O~

ODBC Drivers List Issues:
Go to Start/Run and type in: C:\Windows\syswow64\odbcad32.exe
Note: Replace C for drive used and/or C:Winnt.
Office
Office XP Suite Support Center
Access 2002 Support Center
Access Database Repair and Recovery - Instant, 24 hour Microsoft Access database repair service,
7 days per week and worldwide. Free corrupt database analysis and report.
Excel 2002 Support Center
Word 2002 Support Center
Offline Files
HOW TO: Configure Offline Files to Synchronize When a Particular Network Connection
Becomes Active
OpenGL
OpenGL-Based Program Causes Access Violation in Windows XP
Programs that Require OpenGL Support May Not Run in Windows XP
Missing Tabs in Display Properties and No OpenGL Support
How to Troubleshoot Program Compatibility Issues in Windows XP
Open With
Open With Notepad for Files With No Extension (Line 25)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Clean/Clear out the Open With Lists (Line 32)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
HOW TO: Specify the Program Used to Open Certain File Types
Open With - Not Working or Listed
Check your settings here:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Applications. Select the associated sub-key, if 'NoOpenWith' is listed,
delete it.
This setting allows you to control whether the checkbox to save the "Open With" program is
available when an unknown file type is opened.
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Unknown\shell\openas\command
To enable the checkbox set the (Default) value to "rundll32.exe shell32.dll,OpenAs_RunDLL
%1".

Return to the desktop and press F5 for the change to take effect.
Added note:
Notepad will be used to open the files by default if no association already exists.
Open your registry and find the key "HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\*\shell", if it doesn't already exist
then create it.
Under shell create a new key called open, and edit the string "(Default)" to read "Open With
Notepad".
Under open create a new key called command, and edit the string "(Default)" to read "notepad.exe
%1".
Now when you right click on a file you should see "Open with Notepad" as one of the options.
Tip: Show Programs in the Open With Selection Box
This setting allows you to decide which programs are listed in "Open With" dialog box which is
shown when an unknown file type is opened. Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Applications]
To stop a specific application appearing in the "Open With" list select the associated sub-key and
create a new empty string value called "NoOpenWith". To allow an application to be shown in the
list delete the "NoOpenWith" value. Restart Windows for the change to take effect.
Tip: Restore File Associations - Go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: assoc
Copy the line for the association you wish to restore. A Command Prompt window will open.
Right click in this Window and select Paste. Then press Enter.
Tip: Retrieve the Class Name for a File Extension (Line 146)
Optimize XP
You Too Can Easily Speed Up and Breathe New Life into Your PC!
The OptimizeXP eBook shows you how to:
Remove spyware that spies on you and slows down your PC
Remove and prevent viruses that infest your computer
Speed up your PC’s performance
Make your computer start/boot faster
Stop hackers and worms with a firewall
Delete unwanted junk files on your hard drive
Speed up your computer’s hard disk speed
And much more!
More info here: http://www.optimizexp.net/
Outlook
Make Outlook your default browser: Start/Run/rundll32.exe shell32.dll,Control_RunDLL
inetcpl.cpl,,5. Then change the mail application to Outlook.

Importing:
Go to Outlook/Tools/Services/Add/Personal Folders/Ok. Browse to the pst file you need to
import. Search your system for files with a .pst suffix. Then move/store them here: C:\Documents
and Settings\<User name>\Local Settings\Application Data\Microsoft\Outlook.
Import from Outlook to Outlook Express
Outlook & Exchange Solutions Center
Sharing Microsoft Outlook Calendar and Contacts
To repair a damaged Personal Folders PST file
HOW TO: Import Contacts into Your Windows XP Address Book
Shared Address Books
Outlook & Exchange/Windows Messaging Backup and Dual-Boot
Outlook 2002/2000 Add-in: Personal Folders Backup
How to Back Up, Restore, or Move Outlook Data
OL2000: (IMO) How to Set Up Internet Mail Accounts
OL2000: (CW) Troubleshooting Outlook Configuration Problems
OL2002: (CW) Outlook Connectivity--Outlook Is Slow/Stops Responding, You Cannot Open Email or Attachments
OL2000: Outlook Does Not Receive MSN E-mail Messages
OL2000: "Omi9.dll" Error Message or "Mapi32.dll" Error Message After You Upgrade to
Windows XP
OL2000: Errors in the Module Rtfhtml.dll
OL2002: Outlook Does Not Check for New Messages Automatically
OL2002: Error if You Use Your Contacts to Address a New Message
OL2002: Err Msg: This Operation Has Been Cancelled Due to ...
The OUTBACK Plus utility is designed to make it easy to create a backup or archive file of your
Personal Folder Information from Microsoft Outlook™ 97, 98, 2000 and 2002/XP. Download
here.
Tip: Earlier versions of Address Book gave you the option of using your Microsoft Outlook
Contacts folder in Outlook Express. If you accepted this option, Address Book became a front end
to Outlook, visible in Outlook Express and any other applications that used Address Book.
Contacts added via Outlook thus became accessible to Outlook Express, and contacts added to
Address Book by means of Outlook Express.
This integration with Outlook is still available in Address Book 6 (the version shipped with
Windows XP), but only via an undocumented registry edit. To share contact information between
Outlook and Address Book, open Registry Editor, and go to
HKCU\Software\Microsoft\WAB\WAB4. Add the DWORD value UseOutlook to this key (if it
isn't already present), and set it to 1. [MS-MVP Frank Saunders]
Outlook - Newsgroups
news://msnews.microsoft.com/microsoft.public.outlook
news://msnews.microsoft.com/microsoft.public.outlook.configuration
news://msnews.microsoft.com/microsoft.public.outlook.General
news://msnews.microsoft.com/microsoft.public.outlook.installation

Outlook Express
Outlook Express Issues, Tips, Spell Check, Mail/News Sharing & Auto-Dialing and AutoDisconnect Options
Outlook Express Support Center
How to Register an Internet Browser or E-mail Client With the Windows XP Start Menu
How to Uninstall Internet Explorer 6
How to Reinstall or Repair Internet Explorer and Outlook Express in Windows XP
OLEXP: How to Configure Outlook Express for Internet Mail
Tip: Outlook Express crashes when either hitting enter or using HTML copy and paste: This can
be corrected by
downloading this patch: .MS03-020: June, 2003, Cumulative Patch for Internet Explorer
Tip: Clicking on a link opens in a new window and is empty: Start/Run and type this command:
REGSVR32
URLMON.DLL. Ok/Reboot. Then go to: IE/Tools/Internet Options/Programs/Reset Web
Settings.
Tip: Set Outlook Express as default mail client - Start/Run and type:
"C:\Program Files\Outlook Express\MSIMN.EXE" /REG. Or use this edit: Restore OE to
the Clients List.
Tip: Re-install Outlook Express - Click Start, Run and enter %SystemRoot%\Inf. Locate the
MSOE50.INF file. Right
click it and select Install.
Tip: Mail and/or Folders are missing: Close OE. Tools/Folder Options/View/Show Hidden files
and folders.
Then do a Search for *.dbx...Open OE/File/Import. Set search options to search hidden files,
folders and system
folders. Inbox is under a hidden folder.
Tip: Get HTTP Hyperlinks in OE to Open IE - Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/File
Types. Scroll down to
URL:HyperText Transfer Protocol/Advanced/Edit. Under Application used to perform
action it should read:
"C:\Program Files\Internet Explorer\iexplore.exe" -nohome
Tip: Prevent Account Changes in Outlook Express - Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Outlook Express, Value Name: No
Modify Accts, Data
Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value), Value Data: (1 = enable restriction). Create new
DWORD value called
"No Modify Accts" and set it to "1" to enable the restriction or "0" to allow users to modify
accounts. Restart Outlook
Express for the change to take effect.
Tip: Create a Shortcut to OE Mailto: Right click on the Desktop/New/Shortcut. Paste this into
the white box:

"C:\Program Files\Outlook Express\msimn.exe" /mailurl:mailto: Go to Next, name it (ex) OE
Shortcut, then hit finish.
Tip: Add OE Email Window (Internet Email Message) to the right click - New. Go to
Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to
this key: HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.eml. Highlight .eml then go to Edit/New/Key. Name
the key ShellNew.
Highlight ShellNew. In the right pane right click in the blank area and choose New/String
Value and name it FileName.
Double click FileName and add Email.eml. Close the registry (File/Exit). To test right click
on your Desktop choose
New and you will then see Internet Email Message.
Tip: Create Your Own Throbber for Internet Explorer & Outlook Express in Windows XP
Spell Checker
Fix Spell Checking in Outlook Express 6
Clicking Send or Running Spell Check in Outlook Express Runs Windows Installer for Picture It!
Backup and Restore Mail and News
Sharing Mail Between Operating Systems
Share Mail/News and the Address Book in Windows XP
Change the Location of Mail and News in Windows XP
Remove Unread Mail Notification
Unable to Set Different E-Mail Programs for Different Users
Other Outlook Express Issues - Kelly's XP Korner Outlook Express Page
Outlook Express Keeps Prompting for Your Password
OLEXP: How to Configure Outlook Express for Internet Mail
Restores OE to the E-mail clients list in Internet Options
How to Reinstall or Repair Internet Explorer and Outlook Express in Windows XP
Unread Mail Notification, Spell Checker, Backing up Mail and News, Sharing OE and Password
Issues
Outlook Express does not access POP3 accounts after setting up MSN Explorer
How to Move Mail Folders Between Two Computers in OLEXP
Backing up OE4 to Import to OE6
Email Saver Xe utility is designed to easily create a backup or archive file of your mail data from
your favorite Email Client, which may easily be restored when necessary. It supports the top 7
Mail Clients such as Outlook Express (5.x and 6.0), Microsoft Outlook, Eudora (Pro and Light)
and IncrediMail.
It allows you to backup and restore your messages, address book, settings, mail and news
accounts, message rules, blocked senders lists and the signatures. All backup functions can be
processed either separately or together and the user can choose the identity to save or restore data.
The AutoBackup feature allows you to backup your important data daily, weekly or at any time
period of your choice. You can backup data on one computer and restore on another, thus making
Email Saver not just a backup utility but also a synchronization tool. The program is easy to use
and has a simplified user interface, in the form of a wizard, very useful for beginners. The user
interface is multilingual. Download here. Support and FAQ's here.

Express Assist is a very easy to use utility to backup all of your Outlook Express mail folders
(including all attachments) as a single compressed, backup file. You can easily restore one, all, or
any selection, of the mail folders saved in your backup file. In addition, you may synchronize
your current Outlook Express message folders with message folders saved in the Express Assist
backup. Express Assist provides full support for Outlook Express 4, 5, 5.5 and 6.0. It operates on
Windows 95, 98, ME, NT4, Windows 2000 and XP.
Express Assist also includes backup and restore of the Windows Address Book, mail account
settings, OE preferences, and the Internet Explorer favorites. You are automatically reminded to
backup after a number of days (which you may specify). Express Assist makes it easy to move
your Outlook Express mail between machines and it simplifies the upgrade of your Windows
and/or Outlook Express installations. More information here. Download here.
Outlook Express Backup Wizard
Outlook Express Backup Wizard is an easy-to-use utility that allows you to backup and restore
your Outlook Express data. It saves email messages, address book, message rules, list of blocked
senders, accounts and signatures into a single backup file; and restores the saved data back to
Outlook Express. More information here.
Recovering a lost Message Store (IDX & MBX)
OLEXP How to Back Up E-mail Messages in Outlook Express
OLEXP: How to Back Up and Recover Outlook Express Data
OLEXP How to Back Up the Account List
OLEXP How to Back Up the Outlook Express Address Book and Mail Folders
OLEXP How to Back Up Your Inbox Assistant Rules
OLEXP: How to Backup and Restore Outlook Express Blocked Senders List and Other Mail
Rules
Tip: DBX Extractor - http://chattanooga.net/~scochran/DBXtract.htm
Tip: OE Tools - http://www.tomsterdam.com/insideOE/tools.htm
Tip: Archiving Your Outlook Express Messages:
If you have some really full Outlook Express folders that you'd like to empty out without losing
the messages, you can use the program itself to save your messages. Just run Outlook Express and
select the folder you want to save. Now, click Create Mail and enter a name for your backup in the
Subject line. Next, drag all the messages you want to save from the selected folder into the new
mail message. You can use Ctrl + A to select all the messages.
Dragging the messages to the new mail message will attach all the files to the new message.
Choose File/Save As, locate a folder for your file and click Save. Now, you can double-click your
new file to read any of the saved messages.
Tip: Blind Copies In Outlook Express
Sending the same e-mail message to a dozen or so people. The thing is that you'd rather each
recipient not know who else is getting the mail. What you need to do is use the Outlook Express
blind copy option.
To do this, click Create Mail. If the "Bcc" entry box doesn't appear, choose View/All Headers.
Now, enter your e-mail address in the "To" entry box. Enter all the recipient e-mail addresses in

the "Bcc" entry box. Separate the names with a semicolon. Type in the message and click Send.
You will get the message and all the other recipients will see that you are the primary recipient
and they are getting a copy--their own private copy. They will have no idea who else is getting a
copy.
Tip: Outbox Message Too Large To Send
Open Internet Explorer; go to File and select Work Offline. Close IE and open Outlook Express.
You will probably be prompted to go online to send your email. Stay offline, delete the offending
message, then go to File and click the Work Offline option. Close OE, then reopen. All should be
well.
Tip: Outlook Express Mail Accounts
If you have multiple mail accounts set up in Outlook Express, you may not be able to tell easily
which messages go with which accounts. However, Outlook Express offers an Account column (it
doesn't appear by default) that will show you which account each message belongs with. To
activate the Account column, choose View|Columns. When the Columns dialog box opens, select
the check box labeled "Account" and then click OK to close the dialog box. The Account column
should now appear in your Outlook Express window.
Tip: Decode Email Attachments
Decode Shell Extension allows you to decode Internet email attachments simply by right-clicking
on a saved message file from Explorer and selecting Decode from the menu. Download here.
Tip: Outlook Express Runs Slowly after Disabling/Removing Messenger. Only 3 Registry
edits are required to stop
Messenger and get rid of the delay in OE.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Messenger\Client. Add the following
values as New, DWord Values: PreventRun, PreventAutoRun. Set the value of each of these to1.
Then go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Outlook Express
Add a New, DWord value called Hide Messenger and set the value to 2. (This step is required to
prevent a long delay when opening OE with the Contacts pane enabled).
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\CLSID\{FB7199AB-79BF-11d2-8D940000F875C541}\InProcServer32
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\CLSID\{FB7199AB-79BF-11d2-8D940000F875C541}\LocalServer32
For both, in the right pane, right click Default/Modify/Delete the value data.
Tip: Change Email Association
When you click the Start button, the resulting menu includes an "Email" shortcut in the top-right

corner. Not happy with Windows XP's email program choice--for example, it says Outlook
Express, but you prefer to use Outlook? Then change it.
Move your mouse pointer up to the Email item, Right click and select Internet Properties. In the
resulting dialog box, click the Programs tab. Under Internet Programs, click the down arrow next
to Email and select the desired program--in this case, Microsoft Outlook. Click OK, and you'll see
your change the next time you click the Start button.
Alternatively, Right click the Start button or a blank area of the Start menu and select Properties.
On the Start Menu tab, click the Customize button next to Start Menu. At the bottom of the
resulting dialog box, click the down arrow next to the selected email program and take your pick.
Click OK.
Tip: Address Book
Move your Address Book to a Safe Location
OLEXP: Error Message: Address Book Failed to Load
OLEXP: Mail Folders, Address Book, and E-mail Messages Are Missing After You Upgrade to
Microsoft Windows XP
Err Msg: Address Book Failed to Load, Outlook Express Is...
OLEXP: Outlook Express Address Book Does Not Load
Note: For KB Articles Q191946 and Q274745 (the above two), with OE 6, the value in:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Active Setup\Installed Components\
{7790769C-0471-11d2-AF11-00C04FA35D02} Should read "Address Book 6" without the
quotes.
Block Senders Rule Disappears
Close all open OE windows, then click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT Go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Identities\{GUID}\Software\Microsoft\Outlook Express\5.0\Block
Senders\Mail
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Identities\{GUID}\Software\Microsoft\Outlook Express\5.0\Block
Senders\News
The {GUID} part of the line above is a unique number for the Identity you're currently using.
Usually there will only be one.
Right click on the Block Senders\Mail and the Block Senders\News sub keys, in turn, and select
Export. This will give you two REG files which can be viewed in Notepad (so you can salvage
some of the list).
Then right click the Block Senders subkey and select Delete. Open OE, go to Tools, Message
Rules, Blocked Senders. The list will be empty. Close this dialog, then close OE (don't ask my
why, but it is a bit flaky).
Now open OE again, go back to Tools, Message Rules, Blocked Senders. Leave this open. Locate
the REG files you saved when you selected Export in the earlier steps. Right click on each in turn
and select Edit.

Each of the addresses you had Blocked previously are there. The reason for exporting Mail and
News separately is so that you can easily determine which address goes in which group, should
you be concerned about it.
Outlook Express - Minimize to Tray
From the developer: "PowerMenu adds some powerful new extensions to the windows system
menu. It adds the following extensions: -Minimize windows to the system tray. -Make windows
overlap other windows (always on top). -Set the parent process priority of windows. -Set the
transparency level of a window (Windows 2000/XP only). "Version 1.5.0 supports making
console windows top most (under NT) and new command line options." Download Here.
Outlook Express - Mail Washer
MailWasher is a powerful email checker with effective spam elimination. Discover the safe way
to stop unwanted viruses and e-mails before they get to your computer.
Outlook Express - Virus Protection
OLEXP: Using Virus Protection Features in Outlook Express 6
Office
Office XP Suite Support Center
Office XP Resource Kit
Open With
HOW TO: Specify the Program Used to Open Certain File Types
HOW TO: Change File Associations in Windows XP
Outlook
Outlook Newsgroup
Outlook & Exchange/Windows Messaging Backup and Dual-Boot
HOW TO: Import Contacts into Your Windows XP Address Book
Shared Address Books
Outlook & Exchange Solutions Center
Sharing Microsoft Outlook Calendar and Contacts
To repair a damaged Personal Folders PST file
Import from Outlook to Outlook Express
Do a Search Here: Outlook Issues
OL2000: Outlook Does Not Receive MSN E-mail Messages
OL2000: Error Message: Cannot Start Microsoft Outlook
Allow Opening Attachments in Outlook 2K/XP
Outlook - Minimize to Tray
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER \ Software \ Microsoft \ Office \ 10.0 \ Outlook \ Preferences

Data Type: REG_DWORD
Value Name: MinToTray
Data: 1 (0 to disable MinToTray)

Owner and Organization - Change
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion In the right
pane, double-click RegisteredOrganization. Under "Value data", type the name that you want, and
then click OK.
To change the name of the registered owner, do the following: In the right pane, double-click
RegisteredOwner. Under "Value data", type the name that you want, and then click OK/Exit.
You can also change this information with a small VB Script available here.
Ownership
HOW TO: Take Ownership of a File or Folder in Windows XP

~P~
Page Cannot Be Displayed
Check to see if the sites are listed here, if so delete them. Go to:
Windows\System32\DRIVERS\etc. In the right pane open your hosts file using Notepad. Note:
Some XP users have found renaming the Hosts files folder works as well.
Read Host Files in Notepad (Line 168)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Repair Loss of Internet Access/Certain Web Sites (155)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Page Cannot be Found and/or DNS/Server Error (Line 68)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Download and install version 1173 of mshtml.dll from Microsoft: http://tinyurl.com/80up
Excerpt from a MS-Article
To resolve this problem, delete the Index.dat file in Internet Explorer:
In Internet Explorer, on the Tools menu, click Internet Options. On the General tab, under
Temporary Internet files, click Delete Files. On the Delete Files dialog box message that is
displayed, click OK .
Under History, click Clear History. On the Delete all items in your History folder? dialog box,
click OK. Quit Internet Explorer.

Log on to the computer by using the account of a user who does not experience the problem, and
then open a command prompt. Change the directory to the following path:
drive :\Documents and Settings\Username\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\Content.IE5
Type del index.dat , and then press ENTER. Exit the command prompt and then restart the
computer.
The Index.dat file is re-created the next time that you log on to the computer.
Error Message: The Page Cannot Be Displayed
Cannot Open a Web Page in Internet Explorer and "Page Cannot Be Displayed" Error Is
Displayed
Page cannot be displayed / Cannot find server or DNS Error
Tweak DNS Errors Caching in Windows 2000 / XP
Page File
How to force Windows XP to clear the pagefile on shutdown. Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager\Memory
Management
"ClearPageFileAtShutdown"=dword:00000001
Pagefile too small or Missing
Start/Run/Regedit: Hkey_Local_Machine\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session
Manager\MemoryManagement
There you will find these entries: PagingFiles:Reg_Multi_SZ:C:\pagefile.sys.
TempPageFile:Reg_Dword:0x1
If the PagingFiles: entry is populated, delete the entire TempPageFile entry then reboot. Or...
Check your settings here:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session
Manager\MemoryManagement
PagingFiles
Reg_Multi_SZ type
Value for System Managed on C: is C:\Pagefile.sys 0 0
To change the minimum and maximum values, change the 0's to the Min and Max values you
want. Example: C:\Pagefile.sys 766 1024
You will also need to make this change in the
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\ControlSet001, ControlSet002 and ControlSet003 branches,
if they exist.
Note:

This behavior may occur with certain Intel chipsets -- for example, the Intel D845WN
motherboard or the Intel 815 graphics chipset.
To resolve this issue, download and then install the Intel Application Accelerator (IAA) for
Windows XP. For more information about how to do this, contact Intel or browse to the following
Intel Web site: http://support.intel.com/support/chipsets/iaa. For more information about the Intel
D845WN motherboard, browse to the following Intel Web site:
http://developer.intel.com/design/motherbd/wn/index.htm. For more information about the Intel
815 chipset, browse to the following Intel Web site: http://support.intel.com/design/chipsets/815.
Error Message: Your System Has No Paging File, or the Paging File Is Too Small
HOW TO: Set Performance Options in Windows XP
HOW TO: Move the Paging File in Windows XP
Configuring Page Files for Optimization and Recovery
Page File Monitor - MVP Bill James
This script does a mini-setup on first run, adding itself as a scheduled job to run at whatever
increment of minutes you select. It creates a file, pagefile.log, in the directory you ran the script
from, and updates that with the measured pagefile usage. You might want to pull a shortcut from
the log file to desktop to keep from having to drill down to it when you
want to take a look. Download here.
Passport Balloon - Disable
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\MessengerService. In the right pane, find
"PassportBalloon" and change to value to 0A. When done it should read 0A 00 00 00.
Password
iOpus Password Recovery XP
Windows systems allow a convenient storage of frequently used passwords, such as the passwords
in Outlook Express email or for a FTP connection. However, since you no longer enter the saved
password manually, you tend to forget them. What are you to do when you need to know one of
the saved passwords? The password is staring right at you, but is hiding behind a row of "*****"
asterisks. More information here.
Windows XP / 2000 / NT Key is a program to reset Windows XP / 2000 / NT security if
Administrator password, secure boot password or key disk is lost. More information here.
Windows XP may not display a notice to a user that the user's password is about to expire. This
problem may occur if the user logs on to a Microsoft Windows 2000-based domain from a
Windows XP Professional-based computer on which the user has previously logged on, and the
user's password will expire in the specified expiry period. More information here.
This article explains how to log on to Windows XP if you forget your password, or if your
password expires and you are not able to create a new one. How to Log On to Windows XP If You
Forget Your Password
Password Expired

This will remove the warning message:
Start/Programs/Administrative Tools/Local Security Policy/Account Policies/Password Policy.
In the right pane, right click, properties, modify (use accordingly). And
Start/Programs/Administrative Tools/Computer Management/Local Users and Groups/Right Click
"User"(intended)/Properties...
Or...With Admin privileges, at a command prompt type: net accounts /maxpwage:unlimited.
Click Start, Run and enter LUSRMGR.MSC. Open the Users group and then double click on the
entry for your account. Check Password never expires.
More information on User and Admin Passwords here:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/win_xp_passwords.htm
Path Command Line Completion - Enable
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Command Processor] Value Name:
PathCompletionChar Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value) Value Data: Hex Control
Character Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called
'PathCompletionChar' and set it to equal the hex value of the required control character.
For example to use the TAB key set the value to '9', to use Ctrl-D set the value to '4' and for Ctrl-F
set the value to '6'. Now when you are using a command prompt and type the first part of a
directory name then press the specified key, Windows will complete the remainder for you.
Pressing the key multiple times will scroll through the available options.
Performance - Increase Windows XP performance by adjusting view options
Right Click the My Computer Icon/Properties/Advanced/Performance/Settings and uncheck these
settings: (Or select the Adjust for best performance option)
Fade or slide menus into view
Fade or slide ToolTips into view
Fade out menu items after clicking
Show Shadows under menus
Slide open combo boxes
Slide taskbar buttons
Use a background image for each folder type
Use common tasks in folders
Or select the Adjust for best performance option.
Tip: Change the Transition Effect for Menus and Tooltips. Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop. Value Name: UserPreferencesMask Data
Type: REG_BINARY (Binary Value) Double-click on the "UserPreferencesMask" value to open
the Edit Binary Value screen. Press the right arrow to move over to the second set of digits. Press
the delete key to remove the digits and type either '28' for the scroll effect or '3e' for the fade
effect. Restart Windows for the change to take effect.
Hard Disk Performance Is Slower Than You Expect

Performance - Fred Langa
10 Ways to Make XP Run Better
Permission Denied - When Trying to Delete Folders/Files
Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/View/Unmark "Use Simple File Sharing". Right click
the folder/file in question/Properties/Security/Advanced/Owner/Set Permissions.
HOW TO: Set, View, Change, or Remove File and Folder Permissions
More information here:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/win_xp_mydocs.htm
Personal Web Server
You can download the Apache Web Server from here.
Photos
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Photos: Brighten Up Your Desktop with Photos
Photos: Organize Your Photos
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Picture and Fax Viewer - Prevent Image and Fax Viewer From Stealing Associations
Delete this string:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\SystemFileAssociations\image\ShellEx\ContextMenuHandlers\ShellI
magePreview
@="{e84fda7c-1d6a-45f6-b725-cb260c236066}"

Manually Edit: Right Click On image file. Choose "open with", then "choose program" Select
your favorite image viewer program. Check the "always use selected program" box Click OK.
Disable Picture and Fax Viewer
Go to Start/Run and type: regsvr32 /u shimgvw.dll
Enable Picture and Fax Viewer
Go to Start/Run and type: regsvr32 shimgvw.dll or regsvr32 /i shimgvw.dll
To get a new copy: EXPAND X:\i386\shimgvw.dl_C:\Windows\system32\shimgvw.dll
If you disabled the fax/picture viewer by using regsvr32 /u shimgvw.dll, then changing user icons
fail to work: You need to re-load the dll and it will work. Have only tried this w/ XP Pro. Reload
by typing in regsvr32 shimgvw.dll.
Remove Image Preview
Start/Run/Regedit - Delete the key.
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\SystemFileAssociations\image\ShellEx\ContextMenuHandlers\ShellI
magePreview
Disable as Default
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\ SystemFileAssociations\ image\ ShellEx\ ContextMenuHandlers.
Delete the ShellImagePreview key. Close the Registry Editor or...
Navigate to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\ CLSID\{e84fda7c-1d6a-45f6-b725-cb260c236066}\
shellex.
Delete the MayChangeDefaultMenu key.
Pictures - Welcome Screen
HOW TO: Add or Change a User's Picture in Windows XP
Restore User Default Pictures (Line 54)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
How to Add a Specific Picture
Find a picture you are interested in using and use Save As to download and/or move the picture in
question to your My Pictures Folder. Then go to User Account/Change my picture/Browse for
more pictures/My Pictures Folder/Choose the picture you want to use, then click Open.
Default Pictures are stored here:
Windows Explorer\Documents and Settings\Application Data\Microsoft\User Accounts\Default
Pictures. Summary of an image is 48x48/71 dpi, depth 24.
Note: If you have disabled Picture and Fax Viewer by using regsvr32 /u shimgvw.dll, you will not

be able to change the picture. To restore, go to Start/Run and type in: regsvr32 shimgvw.dll
Pin Program Icon To Start Menu
Want to add more icons to this somewhat-permanent list? Locate the program you want to add--on
the desktop, in the Start menu, wherever--Right click it and select Pin to Start Menu. Click Start,
and you'll see that icon officially "pinned" to the Start menu. To "unpin" it, Right click the item
and select Unpin From Start Menu. Note: Icons pinned to the Start menu don't fluctuate, whereas
the most-frequently-used icons, just below them, do.
You could "unpin" a program pinned to the Start menu by right-clicking it and selecting Unpin
From Start Menu. Did you happen to notice the Remove From This List command in the same
dropdown menu? What's the difference?
Nothing, if you didn't pin the icon to the Start menu from the frequently used program list (on the
left area of the Start menu, below the gray line). However, if the item was pinned from the
frequently used list, Unpin From Start Menu moves the program back to this list, while Remove
From This List removes it altogether.
Plug and Play
How to Add OEM Plug and Play Drivers to Windows XP
Plus!
Error Message: A Problem Occurred in This Installation of Plus! CD Label Maker
Running Plus! for Windows XP - Installation Advisor
Microsoft Plus! for Windows XP - Installation Advisor is a diagnostic tool that analyzes your
computer’s major system components and tells you if it can run Microsoft Plus! for Windows XP.
This tool is specifically designed for Plus! for Windows XP and is the fastest way to verify your
system configuration. Download here.
Policy Settings
Policy Settings for the Start Menu in Windows XP
Pop-Ups
PopUpKiller
Pop-Up Stopper 2.6 - FREE version is a completely FREE product that is not spyware or adware.
This product runs as a system tray icon next to your system clock.
http://www.panicware.com/product_dpps.html
Pop-Up Defender Software
Pornography - Clear unwanted files by Content Audit
You can accidentally pick up objectionable PC files from the Internet! ContentAudit provides a
way to safely detect unwanted files. Content Audit is free, safely scans for unwanted content and

has an online checker that works in minutes.
Power Management
Unable to Use Power Management Features
Description of the Different Advanced Power Management States
Screen Blank If Computer Wakes from Sleep During Scheduled Task
Power Management - Change Power Management Configuration
This parameter allows you to specify the primary role of the computer so that predefined power
management configurations can be used. For example a laptop will have different power saving
features than a home desktop PC.
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and find the key below.
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\PowerCfg]
System Key: [HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\PowerCfg]
Value Name: CurrentPowerPolicy
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value)
Modify the existing value, or create a new string value, called "CurrentPowerPolicy" and set it to
a value (0 to 5) from the table below.







0 - Home/Office desktop
1 - Portable/Laptop computer
2 - Monitor on for presentations
3 - Network computer (no Wake-on-LAN)
4 - Optimized for high performance
5 - Optimized for power saving

Restart Windows for the change to take effect.
Power Menu
From the developer: "PowerMenu adds some powerful new extensions to the windows system
menu. It adds the following extensions: -Minimize windows to the system tray. Make windows
overlap other windows (always on top). Set the parent process priority of windows. Set the
transparency level of a window (Windows 2000/XP only). "Version 1.5.0 supports making
console windows top most (under NT) and new command line options." Download Here.
PowerShot
Digital Camera Products Windows XP Compatibility Information
PPPoE - How to get PPPoE in Windows XP to log in Automatically on boot:
Note: Remember PPPoE is now native to Windows XP.
1) In Control Panel open "Network Connections"
2) Right click on your broadband connection icon and select "Properties"

3) Uncheck "Prompt for name and password..."
4) Click "OK"
5) Open your "C:/Documents and settings" folder
6) Open the "All Users" folder
7) Open the "Start Menu" folder
8) Open the "Programs" folder
9) Go to your Programs Folder -> Startup
9) Copy a short-cut of your Broadband Connection, from the Network Connections folder in to
the "Startup" folder.
PPPoE - How to Use
Prefetch
Prefetch is a new and very useful technique in Windows XP. However, after using XP some time,
the Prefetch directory can get full and have obsolete links in the Prefetch catalog, which can slow
down your computer significantly.
The Prefetcher component in Windows XP is part of the Memory Manager, and helps to shorten
the amount of time it takes to start Windows and programs.
Windows XP "monitors" itself and notices which applications are launched frequently. It gathers
information about these applications and what they access with the launch and stores this
information in the prefetch folder. It then uses this information to "optimize" access to these files
so that they launch faster.
Once every three days, by default, Windows XP will perform a partial defragmentation and adjust
the layout of the disk based upon current use. The files to be moved are written in the file
Layout.ini (found in the Prefetch directory under the System Root directory).
Suggestion: Open C:\Windows\Prefetch and delete the obsolete files, reboot. However, if you
don't have a real good
reason to delete these files, just leave them be. Let the system handle this folder.
If system performance is an issue:
XP automatically optimizes itself every three days, bootvis forces the optimization to happen now
rather than having to wait three days. Fast Boot /Fast Resume Design: A performance trace
visualization tool for use with Windows XP systems.
Bootvis can be downloaded here. For more information click here.
Manage the Windows Prefetcher Service: Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager\Memory
Management\PrefetchParameters
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called "EnablePrefetcher" and set it
according to
(0 = disabled, 1 = Application launch prefetching, 2 = Boot prefetching, 3 = Both prefetching). To
clear the Prefetcher cache, delete all the files in the Prefetch sub-directory (e.g.
"C:\Windows\Prefetch").

Or use this tool: MajorGeeks has posted up a freeware tool for flushing the Prefetch log and
controlling the Prefetch Parameters in Windows XP. Windows XP monitors the files that are used
when the computer starts and when you start applications.
By monitoring these files, Windows XP can prefetch them. Prefetching data is the process
whereby data that is expected to be requested is read ahead into the cache. Prefetching boot files
and applications decreases the time needed to start Windows XP and start applications. Get more
info and download from the link below:
Windows XP Prefetch Clean And Control
http://www.majorgeeks.com/download.php?det=2495
Prefetch Defined: This directory is used by the defrag utility to help organize the files on
your PC for more efficient loading.
"I/O performance is strongly influenced by the layout of files on disk. Files and directories that
are heavily fragmented or dispersed across the disk will hurt performance. While Windows XP
will automatically reposition some files to improve performance, this will generally be done
infrequently and will usually include only a small fraction of the files on the disk. Therefore, it is
a good idea to defragment the disk following an installation.
Once every three days, by default, Windows XP will perform a partial defragmentation and adjust
the layout of the disk based upon current use. The files to be moved are written in the file
Layout.ini (found in the Prefetch directory under the System Root directory)." Windows XP
Performance
Boot Prefetching
Windows XP speeds up system boot by observing the code and data needed each time the system
is booted and prefetching the necessary file contents early in the boot process. This prefetching is
not done until the third boot of the system, when sufficient information is available to make the
prefetching most effective. The files observed during system boot will be used in the disk layout
process mentioned above. Additional information on the prefetcher and the Windows XP boot
process can be found at Fast Boot/Fast Resume for the Windows Platform.
* Side note: When cleaning for Spyware, Malware, Viruses, etc. Remember to check and/or
clear your prefetch folder as well.
Application-Launch Prefetching
Windows XP also uses prefetching when launching applications. The files and the contents of the
files accessed by each new process are observed and recorded. No prefetching can be done for the
first launch of an application, so first launches are often considerably slower than subsequent
launches. About 85% to 90% of the improvement is realized after just one launch of an
application, with the remaining speed improvement coming after the system has had an
opportunity to adjust the disk layout with information specific to this application. Benchmarking
on Windows XP.
Preview Image File
Scouring around a folder for a particular image file? Even if you aren’t viewing that folder’s
contents in Thumbnails view, you can steal a sneak peek at any image. Right-click the file, select
Preview and the image appears inside the Windows Picture and Fax Viewer.

Preview Image File Replaced by Common Tasks
In Explorer go to Tools, Folder Options, General and select Use Common Tasks in Folders. Now
go to any folder with images in it, and go to the Explorer Toolbar and click the Folders button.
The folder tree will be replaced by a new pane, Common Tasks. At the bottom you'll be able to see
the preview of the image.
Print Job Notification
By default Windows notifies a user with a popup message that their print job has been completed
on the printer. This setting controls that behavior. Open your registry (Start/Run/Regedit) and find
the key below.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Print\Providers]
Value Name: NetPopup
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = disabled, 1 = enabled)
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, named "NetPopup" and set it to equal
"0" to disable notification or "1" to enable it. Restart the printer spooler service or restart
Windows for the change to take effect.
Specify Where to Display Printer Notifications
Print Key Pro
PrintKey-Pro is a system tray-based program that can capture your screen or any part of it with
the press of the PrintScrn key (or any other key you configure). You can adjust the captured
picture's brightness, contrast,
color balance, size, color invert, or convert to grayscale or black and white.
Pictures can be edited, using an image editor of your choice, printed or saved in multiple formats
such as JPG, JPEG, BMP, PNG, GIF, TIF and PCX. You can capture the full screen or just the
active window, the client area, or any rectangular or circular area with or without the cursor.
You can also insert text and free hand draw on the picture.You can preview the picture, add the
date, user info, and any text you choose before printing on the selected printer. Download here.
Print Out - Directory
Print the names, and other information, of all folders and files on your computer.
http://www.karenware.com/powertools/ptdirprn.html
HOW TO: Add a "Print Directory" Feature for Folders in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q321379
Add "Log Folder Contents" to the SendTo Menu (Line 112)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Print Out a Directory Listing

For your convenience, the BAT file and a REG file to add this feature can be downloaded here.
Open the ZIP file and extract the files. Copy PRIN.BAT to the Windows folder and double click
the REG file to add the menu option. Either file can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on it
and selecting Edit.
Printer - Always Found after Reboot
This problem can occur when the printer driver is initially installed. The printer installation
program from the manufacturer does not enable the New Hardware Wizard to finish its detection
of the newly installed printer.
To work around this problem, enable the New Hardware Wizard to finish, even though the wizard
cannot detect a new printer. New Hardware Wizard Detects Printer Device After Every Restart
Workaround for HP Printers:
1. When the Found New Hardware Wizard starts at startup of the computer, click <next>.
2. When it asks you for the HP disk, (the next thing that will require a response from you
probably), click <ok>. However, do NOT insert the disk into your CD-ROM drive.
3. On the next screen that comes up, there will be a button that is already highlighted telling the
wizard where to find the printer driver (which is what it is looking for). This button will be
pointing it at "other media, CD-ROM,
etc.
The trick is to DESELECT this button. At that point, the button for your C: drive will become
active and you can select the C: drive. It will also probably be prompting you with the location for
the already installed HP printer driver that is somewhere on your C: drive. (If not, you need to
click browse and locate the driver).
4. After you have deselected the CD-ROM and selected the C: drive, click <ok> (or <next> or
whatever.) The Wizard then makes a second copy of your printer driver (and, by the way, creates a
second "installed printer" in your Control Panel/Printers). And then, the wizard finally completes
and tells you that you have successfully installed the new hardware.
5. On subsequent startup, the Wizard should then NOT run.
Printer
Windows XP KB Articles About Printing and Fax
Printer Issues
Troubleshooting Printer Issues
How to Add Printers with No User Interaction in Windows
Managing Network Printing in a Windows Environment
How to Troubleshoot Windows Printing Problems
Windows Printer Driver Support
HOW TO: Install a Printer Driver Locally for a Remote Printer
100 Percent CPU Usage Occurs When You Print on an LPT Printer Port
"Operation Could Not Be Completed" Error Message When You Use the Add Printer Wizard

HOW TO: Make a Local Printer Available During a Connection to a Remote Desktop in Windows
XP Professional
IntelliPoint 4.0: "HPVLS60" or "HPFVLS06" Error Message or Printer Problem After You Install
IntelliPoint 4.0 Software
Problems with Canon MultiPass Printer and Windows XP
Printing Detailed Documents
If you want to print detailed documents, such as a map off of the Web, then the default Windows
settings for your printer are probably insufficient. The easiest way to change the printer is within
the application from which you wish to print. Click the Print or Print setup button to load the Print
Screen. On this screen you should see a Properties or Settings button. Click this button.
Another way to get to this location is to open the Control Panel, click the Printer icon, right-click
the printer you want to use, and select Properties. Click the graphics tab and click the arrow in the
drop-down box labeled 'Resolution.' Increasing this number increases the number of dots printed
per inch. This will increase the printer's graphics resolution. However, this will also cause your
printer to take more time while printing pages.
Priority Programs - Setting
Task Manager/Processes Tab/Right click Program/Set Priority/Select accordingly.
Problems
Windows XP Problems and Solutions
Process Viewer
PrcView is a process viewer utility that displays detailed information about processes running
under Windows. For each process it displays memory, threads and module usage. For each DLL it
shows full path and version information. PrcView comes with a command line version that allows
you to write scripts to check if a process is running, kill it, etc.
Processors (number of) Supported in XP
Windows XP Home :
Windows XP Pro:
Windows Server 2003 Standard:
Windows server 2003 Enterprise:
Windows server 2003 Datacenter:

1 processor (Normal and HT)
2 processors (Normal and HT)
4 processors
8 processors
32 processors

Product Key
Q: I am reinstalling Windows XP and I am using the product
key off the bottom of the laptop but it says it is no good, what can I do?
A: Are you using the same OEM installation CD that came with the laptop?
If so, you need to examine the Product Key very carefully. It's
awfully easy to mistake a "B" for an "8," a "G" for a "6," an "S" for
a "5," or a "Q" for a "0" or "O." Fortunately, Microsoft had the good

sense to leave the "1's," "I's," "O's," and "0's" out of the equation.
Also, be sure that your <CapsLock> is _off_ while entering the
Product Key -- this isn't supposed to make a difference, but I've seen
it do so.
Troubleshooting Invalid CD Key Error Message During Windows XP Setup
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;310637
If not, you'll need to use either the original or another OEM CD, at
the very least. Product Keys are bound to the specific type and language
of CD/license (OEM, Volume, retail, full, or Upgrade) with which they are
purchased.
For example, a WinXP Home OEM Product Key won't work for any
retail version of WinXP Home, or for any version of WinXP Pro, and vice
versa. An upgrade's Product Key cannot be used with a full version CD,
and vice versa.
An OEM Product Key will not work to install a retail
product. An Italian Product Key will not work with an English CD. Bottom
line: Product Keys and CD types cannot be mixed & matched.
Added info:
The Windows 25-character Product Key (required to perform the
installation) is stored on the CD packaging on a bright orange sticker
that says "Do not lose this number." It is not on the installation CD
in any way, shape, or form. If it was an OEM (factory installed)
license, it's stored on a label that the PC manufacturer affixed to
the exterior of the PC case, or on the bottom of a laptop.
To recover a lost Product Key:
If your system still runs, you should be able to use Belarc
Advisor from http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html to find the
Product Key. (If you have a factory-installed OEM license, and
haven't since reinstalled the OS, the revealed Product Key is probably
of the drive image used at the factory and not your specific Product
Key; therefore, it probably cannot be -- and definitely should not
be -- used for a re-installation.)
If it was a retail license and you have proof of purchase:
How to Replace Lost, Broken, or Missing Microsoft Software or Hardware
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;en-us;326246
If it was an OEM license, you should contact the computer's
manufacturer; although very few manufacturers/vendors keep records of
the Product Keys they've sold, it's worth a try before you have to buy
a new license.

MS-MVP Bruce Chambers
Profiles - Understanding User Profiles
A user profile defines customized desktop environments, which include individual display
settings, network and printer connections, and other specified settings. You or your system
administrator may define your desktop environment.
Types of user profiles include:
A local user profile, which is created the first time you log on to a computer and is stored on a
computer's local hard disk. Any changes made to your local user profile will be specific to the
computer in which you made the changes.
A roaming user profile, which is created by your system administrator and is stored on a server.
This profile is available every time you log on to any computer on the network. Any changes
made to your roaming user profile will be updated on the server.
A mandatory user profile, which is a roaming profiles that can be used to specify particular
settings for individuals or an entire group of users. Only system administrators can make changes
to mandatory user profiles.
Copy a User Profile:
Open System in Control Panel. On the User Profiles tab, and under Profiles stored on this
computer, click the user profile you want to copy, and then click Copy To.
In the Copy To dialog box, under Copy profile to, type the location for the new profile, or click
Browse to select the path.
Click Change to open the Choose User dialog box, click a new user from the Names list, and then
click Add. The new user name will appear in Add Name. Click OK to add the user as a new user
profile on your computer.
Note: You must be logged on as an administrator to the local computer to copy user profiles. To
open a Control Panel item, click Start, point to Settings, click Control Panel, and then doubleclick the appropriate icon.
Note 2: You cannot copy the account you are currently logged in on. You must log into another
account.
Note 3: If you create a new account, you must logon once before you copy another account over
top of it. Windows creates the user profile at logon, not at account creation, and it will not use the
copy you created before that first logon, it will create a user.COMPUTERNAME folder instead.
Note 4: To resolve this issue, verify that the user account is not logged on before you try to copy
its profile. If you are currently logged on as this user, log off, log on again by using a different
user account, and then copy the profile. If
you are not logged on as the user account that you are trying to copy, that account may be logged
on in a different session (using Fast User Switching).

To force that account to be logged off, start Task Manager, click the Users tab, click the user
account, and then click Logoff.
To work around this behavior, you can also create a user who has administrative privileges, log on
as that user, and then copy the profile of the first user.
Delete a User Profile:
Open System in Control Panel. On the User Profiles tab, under Profiles stored on this computer,
click the user profile you want to delete, and then click Delete.
Note: You must be logged on as an administrator to the local computer to delete user profiles. To
open a Control Panel item, click Start, point to Settings, click Control Panel, and then doubleclick the appropriate icon.
Switching between a Roaming and Local User Profile:
Open System in Control Panel. On the User Profiles tab, under Profiles stored on this computer,
click the user profile you want to change, and then click Change Type. In the Change Type dialog
box, click Local profile or Roaming profile.
Note: To open a Control Panel item, click Start, point to Settings, click Control Panel, and then
double-click the appropriate icon. If Roaming profile is unavailable, this indicates that the profile
is a local user profile See your system administrator to create a roaming user profile.
To avoid downloading the roaming profile when you have a slow network connection, select the
Use cached profile on slow connections check box after you click Roaming profile. If you use a
roaming profile on more than one computer simultaneously, it will preserve the settings from the
last computer that logs off.
Disable Roaming Profiles and Cache
Start/Run/gpedit.msc
Local Computer Policy/Computer Configuration/Administrative Templates/System/User
Profiles/Only Allow Local User Profiles.
If you enable both the "Prevent Roaming Profile changes from propogating to the server" setting
and the "Only allow local user profiles" setting, roaming profiles are disabled.
Delete Cached Copies of Roaming Profiles
If this setting is enabled, when users with roaming profiles log off, the system will delete the
cached copy of their roaming profile. This will help to save disk space where that are lots of
roaming users.
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Group Policy
Objects\LocalMachine\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\System
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'DeleteRoamingCache' and edit
the value according to the settings above.

Value Name: DeleteRoamingCache
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = disabled, 1 = enabled)
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Windows XP User Profiles
Program - Getting an Older Program to Run on Windows XP
If an older application gives you trouble when running Windows XP, you can set the compatibility
properties manually so that the program runs in a different mode, such as Windows 95, or in a
different display or resolution setting. To set the compatibility properties for a program:
Right–click the executable or the program shortcut to the executable, and then click Properties.
Select the Run this program in compatibility mode check box. From the list, select an operating
system that the program runs in comfortably. If necessary, also change the display settings and/or
resolution, or disable the Windows XP visual themes.
Run the program again when you’re finished changing the settings. Adjust the compatibility
settings again if the program is still not running smoothly: a program that’s unhappy on Windows
2000 may flourish on Windows 98.
Program Permissions
Limits the Windows programs that users have permission to run on the computer. If you enable
this setting, users can only run programs that you add to the List of Allowed Applications. NOTE:
This setting only prevents users from running programs that are started by the Windows Explorer
process.
Start/Run/Gpedit.msc/User configuration/Administrative Templates/System/Run Only Allowed
Windows Applications/Right click/Properties/Enable/Find Application/Ok/Reboot.
Programs - Restrict
Restrict Users from Running Specific Applications
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer.Value
Name: DisallowRun
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion \Policies\Explorer.
Create a new DWORD value and name it "DisallowRun" set the value to "1" to enable application
restrictions or "0" to allow all applications to run.
Then create a new sub-key called
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Policies\Explorer\DisallowRun and define the applications the are to be restricted. Creating a new
string value for each application, named as consecutive numbers, and setting the value to the
filename to be restriced (e.g. "regedit.exe"). Restart Windows for the changes to take effect.
Restrict Applications Users Can Run

Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer.
Value Name: RestrictRun Open your registry and find the key
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion \Policies\Explorer]
Create a new DWORD value and name it "RestrictRun" set the value to "1" to enable application
restrictions or "0" to allow all applications to run.
Then create a new sub-key called
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion
\Policies\Explorer\RestrictRun] and define the applications that are allowed. Creating a new string
value for each application, named as consecutive numbers, and setting the value to the filename to
be allowed (e.g. "regedit.exe"). Restart Windows for the changes to take effect.
Note: If you are the person who applies Group Policy, do not apply this policy to yourself. If
applied too broadly, this policy can prevent administrators from running Group Policy or the
registry editors. As a result, once applied, you cannot change this policy except by reinstalling
Windows.
Processor - Manage Native Processor Performance Control
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\P3\ Parameters. Value Name:
HackFlags, Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value). Create a new DWORD value, or
modify the existing value, called 'HackFlags' and edit the value according to the settings below.
0 = disable native XP support 1 = use settings inherited from Intel software during XP upgrade 5 =
system can support all modes when running on battery Restart Windows for the change to take
effect. Note: This tweak only applies to processors with either Intel SpeedStep or AMD
PowerNow! processor performance control technologies.
Proxy Server - Automatically set the Proxy Server to an Address
Go to Start/Run/Gpedit.msc
Computer Configuration/Admin Templates/Windows Components/Internet
Explorer/Make Proxy Settings Per Machine (rather than per-user).
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\
CurrentVersion\Internet Settings
Dword Value: ProxySettingsPerUser
0 = per machine, 1= per user
Then set the Proxy Server addresses:
ProxyEnable
DWord
1 = Enabled, 0 = Disabled
ProxyServer
String
address/hostname:port

Examples:
proxy.mynetwork.com:82
192.168.222.221:82
Bypass Proxy for local addresses:
ProxyOverride
Dword
1 should enable, 0 should disable

~
Q
&
R
~
QIC
Cannot Restore Backups That You Create in Windows 95/98, or Windows Me with the Windows
XP Ntbackup Tool
BackUp MyPC is a powerful yet easy to use data protection and disaster recovery solution for a
single computer or peer-to-peer network. Conveniently backup important files or your entire
computer while you're not even around using our advanced scheduling system.
BackUp MyPC backs up to Recordable CD/DVD, Tape, Zip, Jazz, and other removable media
drives and employs disc spanning and data compression which typically can double your media
capacity for significant savings.
QoS
Windows XP Quality of Service (QoS) Enhancements and Behavior
Note: In Media Center 2004 for Messenger (etc), disable QoS for headset/mic use.
Quick Launch - Icons (Arrange)
Right click the Quick Launch tool bar and choose Open Folder. Right click in the right pane and
choose Arrange Icons by.
Quick Launch - Doesn't Function Properly
Quick Launch Repair Tool and More: http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/taskbarplus!.htm
Can't Create Toolbar Error Message

Restore Show Desktop Icon
Remove the Quick Launch Area *
Save Quick Launch Sort Order
Auto Add Specific Links to Quick Launch *
Set Quick Launch as Default for any new user added *
NOTE: For a stand alone exe to be run as a startup script, send an email here and choose #8.
When this utility is run as
a "Startup script", it will automatically adjust the system Registry to "turn on" the
Quick Launch bar, by default,
for all newly created user accounts.
Quick Launch - Icons are Large
Caption button size (Desktop/Appearance/Advanced). Also effects the Quick Launch and System
tray icons. Another option to correct it is to go back to the default XP theme, then redo your
changes.
Quick Launch - Missing or you receive an error message, to correct:
This behavior can occur if the Quick Launch folder has been deleted. To resolve this issue,
recreate the Quick Launch folder. Create a folder named Quick Launch at the following location:
C:\Documents and Settings\Application Data\Microsoft\Internet Explorer
Quick Launch Toolbar Becomes A Floating Palette
By default, the Quick Launch toolbar is right next to the Start button. But if you've added so many
shortcuts to this toolbar, you can't see them all, you may wish to make it a floating palette. Then
you'll have instant access to these shortcuts without unnecessary scrolling.
Click the left edge of the Quick Launch toolbar, drag it out to a blank area on the desktop, and let
go. (Note: If your taskbar is locked, the toolbar won't move.) You can resize the resulting palette
as you would any window: Hold your mouse pointer over its edge, and when the pointer changes
to a double-pointed arrow, click and drag in any direction.
To ensure that your palette is never out of sight, right-click its title bar and select Always on Top.
Quicken
Cannot Back Up Quicken Files to CD
Quote Fix : http://home.in.tum.de/~jain/dl.php?get=OE-QuoteFix
Disable this option to get the Spell Checker to work automatically:
OE/Tools/Options/Spelling and uncheck "Always ignore the original text in a reply or forward".
Or select the text to check and press F7.
Raid Controllers
1. Enable the IDE Raid controller on the mobo if required.
2. Enable it in BIOS as required

3. Boot XP using the present set up - hard drives on the regular IDE controller.
4. Install the drivers for the IDE/RAID controller.
Now XP will recognize the controller and your ready to make any changes you may want to use
the Ide/Raid controllers.
Random Words and Characters
In recent weeks, several XP users have posted messages to Internet discussion lists and
newsgroups reporting that text is automatically appearing in Internet Explorer's address bar or in
Outlook e-mail messages or Word documents as users compose them.
According to Microsoft, after installing Microsoft's Speech application programming interface,
"random words or characters may be displayed in Office XP documents or in the Internet Explorer
Address bar."
To resolve the problem, Microsoft said XP users should disable the Dictation and the Voice
Command features on the operating system's Language bar. Alternately, users can turn off speech
recognition completely from the Regional and Language Options tool on XP's Control Panel.
Merely unplugging or turning off the computer's microphone does not correct the randomcharacter problem, according to several user reports.
Microsoft's Article about Random Characters in Office XP
Microsoft's Article on Configuring Speech Recognition in Windows XP
Microsoft's .NET Speech homepage
Read Only
You may be unable to remove the Read-Only attribute from a folder using Windows Explorer. In
addition, some programs may display error messages when you try to save files to the folder.
This behavior occurs because the folder is customized. You can customize a folder by clicking
Customize this folder on the View menu. Many programs also customize folders (for example,
the Fonts folder comes with a customization as part of the standard system configuration).
Windows Explorer uses the Read-Only attribute to determine whether or not the folder is
customized. To work around this behavior, you can configure Windows Explorer to use the
System flag instead of the Read-Only flag. To do this, use the following steps.
NOTE : Some programs do not operate correctly with folders that have the System attribute
configured. Start Registry Editor (Regedt32.exe). Locate the following registry key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Current Version\Explorer. On the
Edit menu, click Add Value and then add the following registry value:
Value Name: UseSystemForSystemFolders
Data Type: REG_DWORD
Value: 1
Quit Registry Editor.
You can find additional information about folder customization in the Platform Software

Development Kit (SDK). Refer to the PathMakeSystemFolder function and the "Customizing
Folders with Desktop.ini" shell basics chapter at the following Microsoft Web sites:
http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/psdk/shellcc/shell/shlwapi/path/pathmakesystemfolder.htm
http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/psdk/shellcc/shell/shell_basics/custom.htm
Unable to Remove Read-Only Flag from Folder
Reboot - Windows Boots without warning!
By default when WinXP encounters a system failure, it reboots without warning. The setting that
controls this can be changed:
Control Panel/System/Advanced/Settings (Startup & Recovery)/System Failure/UncheckAutomatically Restart.
You can use Event Viewer to view and manage the event logs, gather information about hardware
and software problems, and monitor Windows security events.
To view the event log: Administrative Tools/Event Viewer or Start/Run/eventvwr.
To review Shutdown Event Tracker data, Open Event Viewer. Click System Log, scroll to the
Event column, and find entries with the number 1075.
HOW TO: View and Manage Event Logs in Event Viewer in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q308427
And also:
Go to Start/Run/Msinfo32/Hardware Resources, Components/Problem Devices and Software
Environment/Windows Error Reporting.
Go to Help and Support/Pick a Task (left side)/Use Tools to view.../(left pane)My Computer
Information/(right pane) View the status of my system hardware and software/Hardware/Update
and Troubleshooters.
How to Troubleshoot Hardware and Software Driver Problems
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q322205
Try running the DirectX Tool: Start/Run/Dxdiag, Lower Hardware Acceleration
(Display/Settings/Advanced/Troubleshoot/Hardware Acceleration). Check System Info for
problematic issues: Start/Run/Msinfo32/Hardware Resources and Components/Problem Devices
and Software Environment/Windows Error Reporting.
Report Error's to Microsoft automatically
Start/Run/gpedit.msc/Computer Configuration/Administrative Templates/System/Error Reporting.
Right click Report Errors/Properties. Check off Enable and then check off, Do not display links to
any MS provided more information web sites. Apply, ok.
Recovery Console - To install the Recovery Console as a Start-up Option

1. With Windows running, insert the Setup CD into your CD-ROM drive.
2. Click Start and select Run.
3. Type the following where D: is the CD-ROM drive letter: D:\i386\winnt32.exe /cmdcons
4. Follow the instructions on the screen.
Notes:
a. To run the Recovery Console, restart your computer and select the Recovery Console option
from the list of available
operating systems.
b. You must be logged on as an administrator or a member of the Administrators group in order to
complete this procedure.
If your computer is connected to a network, network policy settings may also prevent you from
completing this procedure.
c. To see the commands available on the Recovery Console, type help at the at the console
prompt.
d. If your computer will not start, you can run the Recovery Console from the Setup CD. See
Related Topics for information
on running the Recovery Console when your computer will not start. Recovery Console in
Windows XP
Recent Documents
1. Open Taskbar and Start menu/Start menu Tab/Customize/Advanced uncheck "List my most
recently opened
documents".
2. Same place in "Start menu items" check "Favorite menu". Or...
HOW TO: Display, Use, and Clear "My Recent Documents"
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q307/8/75.asp
Prevent My Documents and Recent Documents (Line 50)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Clear Recent Documents (Line 170)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Restore My Documents (Line 55)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Restore Recent Documents (Line 55)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Prevent My Documents and Recent Documents (Line 50)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the Regedits: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting
Edit.
Recording Button Missing <source unknown>

If you uninstalled and reinstalled Nero in XP, or did an upgrade from a previous OS to XP without
uninstalling Nero first, this is a known error
(for both Adaptec and Nero). Let me know if it works! This problem is caused by an association
created in the system registry between these specific
Adaptec driver files and the CD file system drivers for Windows 2000. If the Adaptec driver files
are renamed or removed, then the system will loose
access to any CD drive (CD ROM, CD recorder, or DVD).
IMPORTANT: The following contains information about editing the registry. Before you edit the
registry, make sure you understand how to restore it if
a problem occurs. For information about how to do this, view the "Restoring the Registry" Help
topic in Regedit.exe or the "Restoring a Registry Key"
Help topic in Regedt32.exe.
1. Uninstall all CD Burning software from the system.
2. Go to the RUN line and type in Regedt32 and press Enter.
3. Go to the following registry locations and delete the key values for
UPPERFILTERS and LOWERFILTERS: (Do NOT delete the entire
4D36E965-E325-11CE-BBFC1-08002BE10318 key)
Or run this script: http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/regs_edits/xp_cd_dvd_fix.vbs <source
known>
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\ControlSet001\Control\Class\{4D36E965-E325-11CEBB
FC1-08002BE10318}
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\ControlSet002\Control\Class\{4D36E965-E325-11CEBB
FC1-08002BE10318}
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class\{4D36E965-E325-11C
E-BFC1-08002BE10318}
4. Close out of Regedt32.exe and reboot the computer.
5. You should have access to your CDROM drives after reboot.
Make sure you create a System Restore Point before you make changes to the registry.
Recovery
1) Automated System Recovery capability in XP Pro BackUp:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q302894
2) "system file checker" From a cmd prompt, run "sfc /scannow"
3) System Restore from Start Menu Programs, Accessories, System Tools
4) Recovery Console from F8 boot
5) CD boot upgrade, but select Repair. Preferences, apps & settings preserved

6) Driver Roll Back from Start Menu, Admin Tools, Device Manager
7) Password recovery from Start Menu, Control Panels, User Accounts: User, Prevent a forgotten
password
Recovery Console
You can use Recovery Console to perform many tasks without starting Windows XP, including:
starting and stopping services, reading and writing information on a local disk drive, and
formatting drives. However, you must install Recovery Console while your computer is still
functioning. The Recovery Console feature should be used only by advanced users. Before using
Recovery Console, it is recommended that you back up your information on a tape drive, because
your local hard disks might be reformatted—thus erased—as part of the recovery. You can also
run Recovery Console from the Windows XP CD.
To install Recovery Console as a Startup Option
Log on to Windows XP Professional as an administrator or as a user with administrator rights.
If your computer is connected to a network, network policy settings may prevent you from
completing this procedure. Contact your network administrator for assistance. Insert the Windows
XP Professional CD into your CD ROM drive. If you’re prompted to upgrade to Windows XP,
click No.
From the command prompt—or from the Run command in the Start menu–type the path to the
appropriate Winnt32.exe file (on your Windows XP Professional CD), followed by a space and
/cmdcons to reference this switch. For example:
e:\1386\winnt32.exe /cmdcons. Follow the instructions that appear.
To run Recovery Console on a computer if Windows XP Professional does not start
Restart your computer, and then choose Windows Recovery Console from the list of operating
systems. Follow the instructions that appear. Recovery Console displays a command prompt.
Make the required changes to your system.
Back up your information regularly—using the Backup utility in Windows XP—to keep your
archived data up–to–date.
It is also a good idea to backup important data and files before making any system changes, such
as adding new hardware, updating drivers or firmware, and editing the registry. For more
information about how to back up your data, see Help and Support Center. To see the commands
available in Recovery Console, type “help” at the command prompt. To restart your computer,
type “exit” to close the Recovery Console command prompt.
Description and Uses of Windows XP Recovery Console
Workarounds:
Copy the "spcmdcon.sys" file from the temporary disk based fix to the c:\cmdcons directory,
dated 10/5/2001 to the one dated 8/18/2001 from the temporary disk based fix to the c:\cmdcons
directory. Then boot into the Recovery Console.
The Password Is Not Valid Error Message Appears When You Log On to Recovery Console in

Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;q308402&
Boot into Safe Mode and Run "control userpasswords2", uncheck Users Must Enter a Password,
and fill out the dialogue for administrator, with a blank password.
Click Start//Control Panel/Local Security Policy. Scroll to "Recovery Console: Allow automatic
administrative logon." Change from Disabled to Enable.
More info:
HOW TO: Install and Use the Recovery Console in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q307654
Cannot Log On to Recovery Console After Running Sysprep in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/search/preview.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q308402
Recovery Console Fix for XP SP1 (Line 58)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Boot from the XP Home boot Floppies, which you can make from this Microsoft Knowledge Base
article:
http://support.microsoft.com/directory/article.asp?ID=KB;EN-US;Q310994
It will accept a blank password after you boot from the floppies.
Recycle Bin - Deleting Problems
Most noted, this often happens if you use the SUBST command to create a virtual drive. Meaning
XP isn't installed on C.
IF you have a virtual drive. Do a SUBST DRIVER: /D
You should then be able to see the contents of you Recycle Bin
The optional quick fix is: Delete any file (just to make sure there's something in the bin).
Then, with the Recycle Bin CLOSED, right click the Recycle Bin desktop icon, select: Empty
Recycle Bin, and when the Confirm File Delete dialog box comes up, click the OK button. Then
reboot your system. After doing the above, any deleted files should now list correctly in the
Recycle Bin.
Files Do Not Show Up in Recycle Bin When Deleted
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;168570
This seems to work for many: Make sure that something is in the Recycle Bin (delete any file).
With the Recycle Bin closed, right click and choose: Empty Recycle Bin. When the confirm box
appears, click ok. Reboot. Now the Recycle Bin should work correctly.
If the above didn't help:
Files not being listed in the Recycle Bin seem to be related to a corrupt info2 file. To correct the
issue (Fat32):

Go to Start/Run and type in CMD:
Type CD \RECYCLED, and then press ENTER.
Type ATTRIB -r -s -h info2, and then press ENTER.
Type DEL INFO2, and then press ENTER.
NOTE: This deletes the damaged INFO2 file. Windows will recreate this file as needed,
automatically.
You can often restore files even if it is not being listed in the Recycle Bin by searching
(Start/Search) for the files by name, once found rename them. If the files still cannot be recovered,
follow the steps above, then reboot. They should now be listed.
To see the files listed in the Recycled Folder
Go to Start/Run and type in: CMD. At the prompt type in: cd\ [enter] then cd Recycled [enter]
then dir [enter].
They will listed similar to this: Dc25.url, Dc26.lnk, etc. If Windows is installed on D:\, it will
then be listed as Dd25, etc. The number represents the number of file deleted.
A hidden folder is creating on each volume that has the recycle bin enabled named Recycled. Any
deleted files are moved to this folder and renamed to: C<original drive letter><number file
deleted>.<original extension> and the original full name and path stored in a mapping file Info2.
For example the file name: C:\www.dbknox_faq.com\index.html would become Dc1.html (if it
was the first file deleted on the partition).
When the Recycle Bin becomes full, Windows starts deleting files to make room for newly
deleted files. These files are still recoverable until you 'empty' the Recycle Bin.
To Recover Files in NTFS:
Click Start, Run and enter %systemdrive%\Recycler. Under this folder you'll see sub folders with
names like:
S-1-5-21-1085031214-854245398-1060284298-1003
One of these is your user's Recycle Bin folder, you'll have to determine which. Then open a
Command Prompt Window and type: Start/Run and type in: CMD
CD\Recycled\<name of the sub folder>
Next type DIR
Locate the files with the file extension that you wish to recover. There may be more than one of
the same type. These files will all be DC??.xxx where ?? is a number and xxx is the file extension.
Use the COPY command to copy all of the matching files out. For example: COPY *.DOC
C:\Temp
to copy all DOC files to C:\Temp. Now you can open these files and find the one(s) that you
wanted to retrieve. Once you've retrieved all the files that you need, type the following
command: ATTRIB -S -H -R INFO2

INFO2 is a hidden file that holds the information on files in the Recycle Bin. This is the file that
has been corrupted. Next type: DEL INFO2
This removes the corrupted INFO2 file. Don't worry, it will be recreated automatically by
Windows. Now, empty the Recycle Bin. The next time you delete a file, if not before, INFO2 will
be recreated and your Recycle Bin will function normally.
Error Message while deleting:
If, while attempting to empty the recycle bin, you receive an odd error, you may have
inadvertently opened a file or folder that has a share lock on a file or folder that you are
attempting to delete. This usually occurs when attempting to browse your hard drive in Explorer.
Close Explorer and then retry emptying the Recycle Bin.
Files Do Not Show Up in Recycle Bin When Deleted - NTFS
Permissions on the C:\Recycler directory may be too restrictive.
Administrators should have ownership of the Recycler directory. To take ownership of the
directory, perform the following:
Log on as Administrator. Using Windows Explorer, locate the directory and select
Properties/Ownership.
Use the option to Take Ownership of the directory. Restore default permissions to the directory
with the permissions option.
Default permissions: Administrators Full Control, Creator/Owner Full Control, Everyone Change,
System Full Control.
Checkpoints:
Right click on your recycle bin and make sure this box isn't checked checked that says "Do not
move files to the recycle bin. Remove files immediately when deleted."
Remove every reference to Recycled/Recycler (depending) and reboot.
Make sure that something is in the Recycle Bin (delete any file). With the Recycle Bin closed,
right click and choose: Empty Recycle Bin. When the confirm box appears, click ok. Reboot.
Now the Recycle Bin should work correctly.
The issue can occur if some program changes the Recycle Bin status such as Trash
Guard/Shredder of McAfee. It should work normally after you empty the Recycle Bin.
IF you have a virtual drive. Do a SUBST X: /D (where X is the letter assigned to the virtual
drive). You should then be able to see the contents of you Recycle Bin.
When deleted files are not showing up in the Recycle Bin at times the folder can also be missing
under C:\Recycle Bin, if this is the case go to: Start/Run/CMD and type in: rd /s /q c:\recycled
[reboot]. And/or run this edit: Restore the Recycle Bin
Verify that NukeOnDelete is not set in the Registry by running this edit. No Nuke On Delete
Running Spybot has cleared this issue for many users.

Go to Start/Run/Regedit. Edit/Find, in the Find what box type in: {645FF040-5081-101B-9F0800AA002F954E}. The only reference to this CLSID should be for the Recycle Bin. Many users
have found up to 12 references to this key under different third party programs.
Damaged Files in Recycled Folder
Go to Start/Run/CMD:
Type: cd.. enter cd.. enter then, Type: attrib -s -h recycled [enter], Type: del recycled [enter],
Restart the computer.
Or go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: rd /s /q c:\recycled
Files Do Not Show Up in Recycle Bin When Deleted
Err Msg: Error Deleting File Cannot Delete INFO2...
The Recycle Bin on C:\ Is Corrupt or Invalid. Do You Want to Empty the Recycle Bin for this...
HOW TO: Bypass the Recycle Bin When You Delete Files and Folders in Windows XP
Replace/Repair the Recycle Bin (Line 64)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Recover and Restore Deleted Files (Line 36)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Rename the Recycle Bin (Line 115)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Change the Recycle Bin Icon (Line 158)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Add Empty Recycle Bin to the Right Click (Line 21)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Recycle Bin - Rename
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\{645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E}\ShellFolder
Value Name: Attributes
Data Type: REG_BINARY (Binary Value)
Value Data: (70 01 00 20=enable, 40 01 00 20=default)
Set the value of "Attributes" in the appropriate key below to "70 01 00 20", you will then be able
to rename and/or delete any special folders by right-clicking them.
Customizing Windows XP
Recycle Bin - Repair or Replace
Replace/Repair the Recycle Bin This is a REG file. Save the file to your hard disk and double
click it. Answer yes to the import prompt. Right click on the Desktop and select Refresh. REG
files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking the file and selecting Edit.

Recycle Bin - Remove from Desktop
Remove the Recycle Bin (Line 115)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Note: To remove, once the edit is installed, go to Windows Explorer, scroll down to the Recycle
Bin, highlight, then go to File/Delete. Refresh desktop.
Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT
Go to: HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\{647BD8C2-658B-4ECA-ABC7-FC5C0BF1704D}
Right click on the {647BD8C2-658B-4ECA-ABC7-FC5C0BF1704D} sub key and select Export
(this way you can restore it if you want to). Next right click on the same key and select Delete. Go
back to your desktop, right click and select Refresh. No more Recycle Bin.
Or use this registry edit: Hide the Recycle Bin.
Red X
Pictures Are Not Displayed on Internet Web Sites
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q272306
Web Page Displays an Image As a Red X or Not at All
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q283807
Refresh Rate
Run the edits on line 157, 199, 204 and/or 317: http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Update
Value Name: UpdateMode, Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value), Value Data: default = 1.
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, named "UpdateMode" and set it to
equal "0" for faster updates. Restart Windows for the change to take effect.
Refresh Rates: The one CRITICAL flaw in Windows XP
Refresh Rates - Games (Refresh Rates: The one Critical flaw in Windows XP)
Microsoft Windows XP offers many great new features and innovations for both consumers and
corporate users alike, but if you play computer games, you might want to think twice before
purchasing XP to replace your Windows 98/ME operating system. Windows XP suffers from
huge limitations in the way it handles monitor refresh rates, and buying XP will increase monitor
flicker and could severely hurt your eyes!
By default, Windows 98/ME always plays games at the highest refresh rate your monitor and
video card can handle, and this offers the least flicker and the least eyestrain possible. However,
Windows XP plays games at much lower refresh rates. In every resolution, all DirectX games in
Windows XP run at only 75 Hz, and all OpenGL games in Windows XP run at only 60 Hz. That's
right, OpenGL based Quake III Arena will run at only 60 Hz in XP!

Both of these refresh rate settings will give you much added eyestrain and a nasty headache after
playing for a while. This gaming refresh rate issue is such a HUGE and OBVIOUS problem, it
makes you wonder how Microsoft can even ship an operating system with such a huge flaw.
Games however, are not the only area refresh rates are handled poorly in Windows XP. When
setting your 2D desktop refresh rate in "Display Properties," Microsoft got rid of the "Optimal"
refresh rate setting in Windows XP. In Windows 98/ME, Windows is automatically set at an
"Optimal" refresh rate setting in "Display Properties," and Windows always uses the highest
refresh rate possible at EVERY resolution on the 2D desktop.
Now, since Windows XP only uses static refresh rate values instead of the "Optimal" setting in
"Display Properties," every time you switch resolutions in XP, you have to manually change your
refresh rate setting to the highest available to get the best display quality possible on the 2D
desktop. With an "Optimal" setting, users don't need to worry about refresh rates at all.
Also, no matter what people may tell you, this is NOT a driver issue. These refresh rate problems
happen with EVERY video card on the market, with all available drivers. It happens on NVIDIA,
ATI, S3, Matrox, 3dfx, and all other video cards. Even with drivers designed for Windows XP,
you will still experience these problems.
Furthermore, don't believe the myth that it's bad to run your monitor at high refresh rates, even if
your monitor supports them. Running your monitor at high refresh rates, as long as your monitor
can support them, will not damage or cause any added stress to your monitor. I have confirmed
this with multiple monitor manufactures.
While most people can't consciously tell the difference between 85 Hz and higher refresh rates,
running at higher refresh rates will still cause less eyestrain after you use your computer for an
extended period of time, so it is best to run your monitor at the highest refresh rate possible.
Temporary solutions for now: Click here and scroll down.
Regional Settings - Torgeir Bakken (MVP)
A combined batch/vbs solution creating a date variable in the
format 11-17-2004 regardless of the regional settings:
-----------------------------------------@echo off
echo D = Now : WScript.Echo Right(100+Month(D),2) ^& "-" ^& _ >%tmp%\today.vbs
echo Right(100+Day(D),2) ^& "-" ^& Year(D) >>%tmp%\today.vbs
for /f "tokens=1" %%a in (
'cscript.exe //Nologo %tmp%\today.vbs') do set today=%%a
del %tmp%\today.vbs
echo Todays date: %today%
-----------------------------------------Third party: Date 2 File or Directory
Registry - Disable Registry Editing Tools

Disable or Enable Registry Editing Tools (Line 213)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Repair the Registry Editor (Line 173)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Lift Restrictions from the Registry Editor (Line 275)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual:
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System
Value Name: DisableRegistryTools
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = allow regedit, 1 = disable regedit)
Create a new DWORD value named 'DisableRegistryTools' and set the value to '1' to disable
registry editing functions.
Restart Windows for the change to take effect.
Save the file to the root of your C drive, naming it regfix.reg. Open a command prompt window
(start, run, cmd.exe) and enter the following
command: regedit -s c:\regfix.reg
Type in that command in hit the enter key. You should then be able to run regedit.
HOW TO: Back Up, Edit, and Restore the Registry in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;322756
Registry - Default: Revert a Single Registry Setting to its Default
This is useful, not only for defining settings for all new users on a system, but for obtaining the
default for a particular setting that has been changed since the user account was created.




Say, the UserPreferencesMask value, located in HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control
Panel\Desktop, has an incorrect setting.
Now, this is a binary value, and therefore its data is not necessarilly easy to interpret.
Instead of guessing at the correct setting, just go to HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control
Panel\Desktop, obtain that value's default setting, and update the active value in
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop with the new data.

Registry Edits
Registry Edits and Tips for Windows XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_reg_edits.htm
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Registry Explained

Windows Registry Tutorial
Registry - Last State
Tip: This script stops Regedit from remembering the last key and instead opens regedit at the
top "My Computer"
folder. Create a shortcut on your desktop to this script and double-click on it to launch
Regedit without the last key
memory. Download Here.
Tip: After you start Regedit, press and hold down SHIFT+LEFT ARROW to collapse all the
entries back to the My
Computer entry.
Tip: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Applets\Regedit.
In the right pane, for the value LastKey.
Double-click it and clear the string. Then right-click the Regedit key (in the left hand pane) and
select Permissions. Set Permissions to Deny for any/all users/groups. How to Prevent Regedit.exe
from Using the Last State
Registry - Re-Initialize Your Registry Without Rebooting Windows
Some registry changes require you to restart Windows before they are enabled. A workaround in
most cases is to go to the Task Manager, end process on Explorer.exe, with Task Manager still
open, go to File/New Task and type in Explorere.exe.
Registry - Restore
Press F8 at boot up and you will se the option to load last good configuration (this restores the
registry). If you have system restore on then you can restore system files just by booting into safe
mode, right click My Computer and selecting properties, now select the restore tab.
HOW TO: Back Up, Edit, and Restore the Registry in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;322756
Registry - Startup a Program Just Once then delete from the Registry
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Runonce. Data Type:
REG_SZ. Value: path to the program.
Tip: Startup Programs Without the Startup Folder - Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run. Data
Type: REG_SZ. Value: path
to program.
Registered Owner and Organization

Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion
In the right pane, double click RegisteredOwner and change the Value data.
Or you can use these automated scripts:
Change Registered Owner and Organization (Line 7)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Change Computer Name (Line 109)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Change My Computer Name to User Name (Line 131)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Registry - Recovery
How to Recover from a Corrupted Registry
Registry Robot
RegistryRobot provides a safe interface to dozens of registry settings that cannot be changed
through built-in Windows utilities. Only tweaks that relate to your operating system or Internet
Explorer version are displayed; if it's not relevant, you never see it. The tweaks appear in a tree
structure, organized by category, and include descriptive text so you know what the effect of each
one will be. And if you don't like the result of a tweak, you can easily undo it. For more
information and download click here.
Regsvr32 (Special thanks to David Candy)
You can use the Regsvr32 tool (Regsvr32.exe) to register and un-register object linking and
embedding (OLE) controls such as dynamic-link library (DLL) or ActiveX Controls (OCX) files
that are self-registerable. This may be necessary to troubleshoot some issues with Windows,
Microsoft Internet Explorer, or other programs. Go to: Start/Run
regsvr32 Shdocvw.dll
regsvr32 Shell32.dll
regsvr32 Oleaut32.dll
regsvr32 Actxprxy.dll
regsvr32 Mshtml.dll
regsvr32 Urlmon.dll
regsvr32 msi.dll
regsvr32 Shdocvw.dll
regsvr32 Shell32.dll
regsvr32 Oleaut32.dll
regsvr32 Actxprxy.dll
regsvr32 Mshtml.dll
regsvr32 Urlmon.dll
regsvr32 /i shell32
regsvr32 sendmail

(restores registry settings for html and http)

(restores registry settings for drives, folders, and some others)

Regsvr32
This command-line tool registers .dll files as command components in the registry. For more
information about changes to the functionality of MS-DOS commands, new command-line tools,
command shell functionality, configuring the command prompt, and automating commmand-line
tasks, see Command-line reference.
RegSvr32 - Graphical Interface
This program allows to register/unregister DLLs using RegSvr32 tool which is included with
Windows. This program is very easy even for beginners. Additionally, it shows a way to find
windows\system directory location properly. A handy utility that will help you avoid the
inconvenience of running regsvr32 from the start menu all the time. CodeRegshell.zip
Reinstall
Windows XP Pro
Windows XP Parallel Install
Windows XP Pro Upgrade Install
Windows XP Pro Repair
OEM PC's RECOVERY/RESTORES/REINSTALLS/INSTALLS (Compaq, Dell, HP)
Reminder
Annoying message. To resolve, search for this exe and delete it. hpsdpapp.exe
Remote Access to the Registry
How to Manage Remote Access to the Registry
Remote Assistance
Problem: Expert cannot take control.
Problem: Neither Expert nor Novice can send a file.
One solution: Set Active Scripting in MSIE for the Internet zone to Enable or Prompt.
(Contributed by CZ)
Troubleshooting Remote Assistance in Windows XP
Troubleshooting the Remote Assistance Connection Process
Troubleshooting How to Enable Remote Assistance in Windows XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_resources.htm
Remote Assistance Issues
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_remote_desktop.htm
Remote Backup
Start protecting the files you business values most.
With our backup solutions you get offsite protection, data security,

and remote file access 24/7. Backup should not be a burden - we make it
easy. For more information: http://www.backupright.com/
Remote Desktop
Re
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Remote Desktop: Enable Your Computer as the Host
Remote Desktop: Install the Client Software
Remote Desktop: Start a Session
Troubleshooting Remove Desktop Issues
Remote Desktop Web Connection
"Show Shadows Under Menus" Does Not Work in Remote Desktop Sessions
HOW TO: Make a Local Printer Available During a Connection to a Remote Desktop in Windows
XP Professional
Desktop/Remote Assistance/Remote Networking
Overview of Remote Assistance in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q300/5/46.asp
Description of the Remote Assistance Connection Process
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q300/6/92.asp
The Features of the Remote Desktop Client in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q300/6/98.asp
Remote Desktop Connection Client Does Not Start Properly
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q302/8/03.asp

Provide Remote Assistance in Response to an E-mail Invit
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q306/7/91.asp
Provide Remote Assist by Using Windows Messenger
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q306/8/00.asp
Installing Remote Desktop Web Connection in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q284/9/31.asp
How a Remote Desktop Connection Affects Windows XP Professional
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q280/8/28.asp
HOW TO: Turn On Remote Desktop Automatic Logon
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q281/2/62.asp
How to Disable Remote Desktop by Using Group Policy
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q306/3/00.asp
Remote Installation
How the Remote Installation Boot Disk Works
Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Exploit - Updated!
Special thanks to MVP Doug Knox and Mike Kolitz
Windows shuts down after 60 seconds because the Remote Procedure Call (RPC) service
terminated unexpectedly.
Suggestions:
Go to Start/Run and type in: services.msc. Scroll down to Remote Procedure Call
(RPC)/Recovery/First Failure/Restart the
Service. Explained in more detail: (Jupiter Jones MVP)
Click Start
Click Run
Type in: services.msc
ENTER
The box that comes up has an alphabetical list of services.
Use the scroll bar on the right and go down to "Remote Procedure Call (RPC)"
Right click on it.
Click Properties.
Click Recovery tab
Click drop down by "First Failure"
Select "Restart the service"
Click OK.
Then download the script on line 1. (a) then the patch on line 1. (b) or follow the prompt within
the script. This script removes the W32.Blaster.Worm, W32.Blaster.B.Worm,
W32.Blaster.C.Worm, W32.Blaster.D, W32.Blaster.E and W32.Blaster.F.

1 (a) and (b) is all that is needed to be done. The rest provided below it, is just for
informational purposes.
1. a. Download this VB Script. The script deletes the run key from the registry, msblast.exe from
the System32 folder,
stops the process in the Task Manager, prompts for the patch download and/or verifies if the
patch is already
installed.
b. Install the 824146 patch.
*Tip: Prevent Prompting for Hotfix KB823980
*Tip: Correct the Cryptographic Service Error Message
Stop Here if the worm has been removed!
More Troubleshooting Information for combined worms:
Msconfig, Regedit or Task Manager can not be opened. Emergency Msconfig, Regedit, Task
Manager
Startup Programs Tracker - Processes . This script reads the run keys, Shell and Running
Processes to help identify which worm is present.
Worm Removal Scripts - msblast, randex, sobig
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_w.htm#worm
For the users who have disabled msblast, etc from msconfig before running the script, this script
removes all bogus entries.
Remove Disabled Entries from Msconfig Startup or (Line 148) http://www.kellys-kornerxp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual Removal Instructions for msblast:
1. Rename msblast.exe in the System32 folder. Stop the process in the Task Manager labeled
msblast.exe. Then go to Start/Run/Regedit and delete this entry:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
"windows auto update"="msblast.exe"
2. Error Message when trying to download the patch: Setup could not verify the integrity of the
file update.inf. Make sure
the Crytographic service is running. Correct the Cryptographic Service Error Message.
Manual:
Go to Start/Run and type in: regsvr32 wintrust.dll
If that doesn't help: Go to Start/Run and type in CMD. At the command prompt, type the
following commands, pressing ENTER after each line:
net stop cryptsvc
ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 oldcatroot2

net start cryptsvc
3. What You Should Know About The Blaster Worm
W32.Blaster.Worm - DCOM RPC - msblast.exe
http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/w32.blaster.worm.html
RPC DCOM WORM (MSBLASTER)
http://isc.sans.org/diary.html?date=2003-08-11
4. Right click the My Computer Icon/Properties/Remote. Uncheck both boxes.
5. Security update for the RPC Buffer Overrun flaw:
http://microsoft.com/technet/treeview/default.asp?url=/technet/security/bulletin/MS03-026.asp
6. You may also need to activate a firewall, such as the one included with Windows XP in the
interim to block the exploit
on ports 135, 139, or 445.
http://microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/using/howto/networking/icf.asp
7. Worm.Win32.Autorooter
http://www.avp.ch/avpve/worms/win32/autorooter.stm
Remove Properties
Remove (Line 314), Restore (Line 207 or 203)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual:
Remove Properties from My Computer. This restriction remove the properties option from My
Computer and hides the "System Properties" screen.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Value Name: NoPropertiesMyComputer
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = Properties, 1 = No Properties)
Remove Program From the Start Menu - Exclude a Program from the Start Menu
You can remove a program shortcut from the left side of the new Start menu (where XP shows
you a number of most frequently used programs) by right clicking the shortcut and choosing
Remove from This List, but you will notice that after some time (if you continue to use the
program), it will reappear.
There is a way to ban programs from this part of the Start menu permanently:
Start the Registry Editor
Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Explorer\FileAssociation\

Right-click the String Value AddRemoveApps, and select Modify. Add the name of the programs
executable at the end of the Value data, make sure that the name is preceded by a semicolon (;).
When ready, press OK and close the registry editor. Log off, or restart Windows for the changes
to take effect.
Restore Most Frequently Used Program List (Line 133)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Note: Personalized menus come into play whether you are running the Classic or Start Menu.
Luna is oriented towards the start panel rather than the start menu
and does not implement personalized menus off the start panel. One thing you can do is start
pinning stuff to the start panel to minimize the number of
times you have to go to the start menu. You'll also notice that your most frequently used stuff
shows up on the start panel regardless.
Policy:Remove frequent programs list from the Start Menu
Description:Removes the frequently-used programs list from the Start menu. Registry
Value:"NoStartMenuMFUprogramsList"
Policy Settings for the Start Menu in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q292504
Frequently Used Programs Not Automatically Added to Start Menu
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q282/0/66.asp
Check your settings here: Start/Run/Regedit
Note: This setting only applies to the Windows XP Start Menu, not the
Classic Start Menu.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Policies\Explorer
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
If you have this Value Name: NoStartMenuMFUprogramsList change the Value Data to 0 or
delete the Value Name.
Another option would be to check the number of programs to be listed: Right click the Start
button/Properties/Customize/Number of Programs...
The settings are also listed here: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Explorer\Advanced. In the right pane, check the Value Data under Start_MinMFU.
Rename Desktop (System) Icons
Rename Your Desktop (System) Icons
Repair and Re-Activation

Running Repair on Windows XP Requires User to Re-Activate XP
Repair The Windows XP Installation
Note: You will forfeit all MS Updates.
Configure your computer to start from the CD-ROM drive. For more information about how to do
this, please refer to your computer's documentation or contact your computer manufacturer.
Insert your Windows XP compact disc (CD) into your CD-ROM drive or DVD-ROM drive, and
then restart your computer.
(You can also boot with a Windows 98/Me Startup disk with CD support and run WINNT.EXE in
the I386 folder on the CD)
When the "Press any key to boot from CD" message is displayed on your screen, press a key to
start your computer from the Windows XP CD.
When you see the following message displayed on the Welcome to Setup screen, press ENTER:
To setup Windows XP now, press ENTER.
At this point an option to press R to enter the Recovery Console is displayed. Do not select this
option.
On the Windows XP Licensing Agreement screen, press F8 to agree to the license agreement.
Make sure that your current installation of Windows XP is selected in the box, and then press the
R key to repair Windows XP. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete Setup.
Perform an In-Place Upgrade (Reinstallation) of Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q315341
Report Errors to Microsoft Automatically
Start/Run/gpedit.msc/Computer Configuration/Administrative Templates/System/Error Reporting.
Right click Report Errors/Properties. Check off Enable and then check off, Do not display links to
any MS provided more information web sites. Apply, ok.
Tip: To Disable - Right Click the My Computer Icon/Properties/Advanced/Error
Reporting/Disable
Tip: To bypass the BSOD altogether and enable the instant "Auto Reboot" feature:
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\CrashControl. Right click on
"AutoReboot", modify and change the value to 1. Exit, reboot. To disable set the value back to 0.
Resolution
PowerStrip
1st QuickRes 1.6b
Lock Refresh Rates under Windows XP
Display Resolution and Color Depth Settings Apply to All Users

Restart - Multi-Boot Tool
Restart is a system utility for advanced users with more than one operating system installed on
their machine. The program installs an icon in the notification area, and with a single click the
computer will shutdown and restart with the selected operating system. The program also includes
a command to shutdown the computer, and advanced settings for uncommon configurations.
Screen shot and download.
Restore - Backups from Win 95, Win98 or Win Me
Cannot Restore Backups That You Create in Win 95, Win 98, or Win Me with the Windows XP
Ntbackup Tool
Restore - Startup Programs
Restore Startup Programs in Windows XP
A Description of the "Restore Startup Programs" Option That Is Used When You Upgrade to
Windows XP
Restrictions
This restriction will not allow programs with the specified executable filename to run.
Start/Run/GPEDIT.MSC to set up user restrictions. These things can only be changed from Admin
accounts and apply to all user profiles. GPEDIT.MSC is not available in the Home Edition of
Windows XP.
Restrict Users from Running Specific Applications
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer.Value
Name: DisallowRun
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion \Policies\Explorer.
Create a new DWORD value and name it "DisallowRun" set the value to "1" to enable application
restrictions or "0" to allow all applications to run.
Then create a new sub-key called
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Policies\Explorer\DisallowRun] and define the applications the are to be restricted. Creating a
new string value for each application, named as consecutive numbers, and setting the value to the
filename to be restriced (e.g. "regedit.exe"). Restart Windows for the changes to take effect.
Restrict Applications Users Can Run
This restriction will only allow applications with the specified executable names to run.
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer.
Value Name: RestrictRun Open your registry and find the key
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion \Policies\Explorer]

Create a new DWORD value and name it "RestrictRun" set the value to "1" to enable application
restrictions or "0" to allow all applications to run.
Then create a new sub-key called
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion
\Policies\Explorer\RestrictRun] and define the applications that are allowed. Creating a new string
value for each application, named as consecutive numbers, and setting the value to the filename to
be allowed (e.g. "regedit.exe"). Restart Windows for the changes to take effect.
Note: If you are the person who applies Group Policy, do not apply this policy to yourself. If
applied too broadly, this policy can prevent administrators from running Group Policy or the
registry editors. As a result, once applied, you cannot change this policy except by reinstalling
Windows.
Resource Settings
Unable to Change Resource Settings in Windows XP Device Manager
Right Click Context Menus - Deleting entries
Customizing Right-Click Menu Options in Windows
http://www.jfitz.com/tips/rclick_custom.html
ContextEdit lets you control which items appear on your context menu (right-click) in Windows
Explorer.
Add, Modify, Disable, Delete Context Menu Listings (Line 23)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual info:
Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT Go to:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\*\OpenWithList
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\*\shellex\ContextMenuHandlers
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Directory\shell
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Directory\shellex\ContextMenuHandlers
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Drive\shell
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Drive\shellex\ContextMenuHandlers
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shellex\ContextMenuHandlers
You can also go to a specific File extension (example: HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.txt\ShellNew)
and right click on the ShellNew key and select Delete, if the item shows up in the New context
menu.
Expand the above branch and look through the sub-keys. Locate the one that corresponds to the
entry you wish to remove and right click that sub-key and select Edit.
You may wish to right click the desired sub-key and select Export. This will create a REG file that
you can double click to re-import the information, if you find out you deleted the wrong one, or
want it back.

Right Click - Submenus
The new OpenExpert is the answer to this problem! Instead of messing around with a fixed
association of a file type with only one application, it adds an "Open with" item to the context
menu of the chosen file type with all the applications you decide.
Roaming Profiles - Disable
Start/Run/gpedit.msc
Local Computer Policy/Computer Configuration/Administrative Templates/System/User
Profiles/Only Allow Local User Profiles. Local Computer Policy/Computer
Configuration/Administrative Templates/System/User Profiles
Or...
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Group Policy
Objects\LocalMachine\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\System
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'DeleteRoamingCache' and edit
the value according to the settings above.
Value Name: DeleteRoamingCache
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = disabled, 1 = enabled)
If you enable both the "Prevent Roaming Profile changes from propagating to the server" setting
and the "Only allow local user profiles" setting, roaming profiles are disabled.
Delete Cached Copies of Roaming Profiles
If this setting is enabled, when users with roaming profiles log off, the system will delete the
cached copy of their roaming profile. This will help to save disk space where that are lots of
roaming users. Start/Run/Regedit - You may need to create the key if it does not already exist.
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'DeleteRoamingCache' and edit
the value according to the settings below.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Value Name: DeleteRoamingCache
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = disabled, 1 = enabled)
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Roxio
•

Eas

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CD
Cre
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3.x
and
Wi
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XP
FA
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•
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Easy CD Creator 4.x and Windows XP FAQ
Easy CD Creator 5.0x Basic and Windows XP FAQ

Easy CD
Creator
5.0x
Platinum
and
Windows
XP FAQ

Roxio Products and Windows XP
Rtfhtml.dll
OL2000: Errors in the Module Rtfhtml.dll
Run As
HOW TO: Enable and Use the "Run As" Command When Running Program
Run Command - Clear History
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\RunMRU.
Delete the value corresponding to the command you want to remove, or remove all the entries to
clear the list completely.
Run Command - Creating 'App Paths' in Windows XP
To create an application path, so you can run an application in Windows XP from the Run dialog
box you need to:
1. Run regedit and go to HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\App Paths
2. Create a new key with the what ever you want to use as your run command:
HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\App Paths\nameofprogram.exe

3. In the key folder that you created, create a new string, call it 'Path' and modify the value to
point the specific folder of your
executable your running: C:\ProgramFiles\nameofprogram.
4. Use the default string and modify it's value to point to the executable you want to run.
Run Command Missing
Right click the Start button and select Properties, then Customize. Scroll down and put the check
mark in the Show Run entry. If you're using the new Start panel, its on the Advanced tab.
Or check your settings here: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Value Name: NoRun
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = disabled, 1 = enabled)
Note: It seems that under "XP Theme", not more than eleven (11) items can be displayed together
at the right-hand column (with blue background), which at times, disables/removes the Run
Command even with it being checked.
Run Command - Restore
When you click Start, Run and enter a path and folder name (example: C:\Windows), you may
receive and error message.
The Registry branch for HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder is damaged or corrupted. Fix:
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/fileassoc/folder_reg.zip To use: Download the ZIP file and open it.
Extract the REG file and double click it. Answer yes to the import prompt. REG files can be
viewed in Notepad by right clicking them and selecting Edit.
Run Commands - XP Pro
Tip: For Pro - Start/Run/hh ntcmds.chm
For Home - Start/Run/ %windir%\hh.exe ms-its:%windir
%\Help\ntcmds.chm::/ntcmds.htm
Tip: Run Command Creator (Line 326) Right hand side: http://www.kellys-kornerxp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
For Help:
ms-its:C:\WINDOWS\Help\ntcmds.chm::/ntcmds.htm
For Tools:
ms-its:C:\WINDOWS\Help\ntcmds.chm::/ntcmds_new_tools.htm
For Tasks:
ms-its:C:\WINDOWS\Help\ntcmds.chm::/dos_diffs.htm
Command-line reference A-Z

New Command Line Tools
Help & Support Run Commands
Here is my Win98 list, keep in mind, many also apply to XP.
Short list:
msconfig, msinfo32, gpedit.msc, dxdiag, regedit, control passwords2, control passwords, control
folders, cleanmgr, clipbrd,
devmgmt.msc, services.msc, conf, %appdata%
Start/Run/CMD: taskkill /?, tasklist /?, assoc /?, cs /?, fsutil, schtasks
Start/Run/CMD: dir %windir%\system32\*.cpl, dir %windir%\system32\*.msc, dir %windir
%\*.exe, dir %windir%\*.com,
dir %windir%\*.vbs, dir %windir%\*.js, dir %windir%\*.cmd, dir %windir%\*.bat
All of the rest are listed below with details.
For these go to Start/Run and type in for example: control desktop
control desktop
Panel)
control color
Appearance)
control
date/time
(Date/Time Control
Panel)
control international

(Desktop Control
(Desktop

(Ke (
yboNet
ard wo
Co rk
ntr and
ol Dia
Panl-

(Folder
(Novell

control
telephony
(Phone
and Modem Options)

(Regional Settings)

control
control
mouse
schedtasks
(Mouse Control Panel) Tasks Folder)
con con
trol trol
key net
boa con
rd nec
tio
ns

control folders
Settings)
control netware
NetWare)

(Scheduled

control
admintools
Tools Folder)

(Administrative

el) Up
)
con con
trol trol
pri infr
nte are
rs d

(Inf
(Pr rar
inteed
rs Co
Fol ntr
der ol
) Pan
el)
con con
trol trol
fon use
ts rpa
ssw
ord
s
(Fo (U
nts ser
Fol s
der and
) Pas
sw
ord
s)
Note: You can use CONTROL.EXE applet.CPL OR RUNDLL32.EXE
SHELL32.DLL,Control_RunDLL applet.CPL
Other options by example: control Sysdm.cpl,System,1
Also, there's a couple of items controlled by just one .cpl, main.cpl. For these, make it say:
control main.cpl @X
Replace the @X with:
@0 for the mouse properties item;
@1 for the keyboard properties item;
@2 for the printers item;
@3 for the fonts item.

More listed here in a table.
TechTV List
Running Control Panel Applets Directly
Some applets provide more than configuration tab, e.g. SYSTEM applet comes with General,
Device Manager, Hardware Profiles and Performance. These tabs can be accessed directly by
adding options to the above given command line.
CONTROL.EXE applet.CPL,,1 where applet is the name of your chosen applet and the numbers
0..3 address the corresponding tabs (0-first tab, 1-second ...).
Subpage exceptions would be: Fonts- main.cpl subpages (-3), Keyboard - main.cpl subpages (-1),
Multimedia - mmsys.cpl subpages (-0), Printers - main.cpl subpages (-2), Sounds- mmsys.cpl
subpages (-1).
Example: Rundll32.exe shell32.dll,Control_RunDLL <cpl app>,<applet>,<page>
Co Cas
ntr e
ol_ Sen
Ru siti
nD ve.
LL
<cpl app>
Name of Control Panel applet to open.
<applet> If the
applet
contains
multiple
applets,
such as the
printer
applet, this
indicates
which one
to open.
Numbering
is zerobased
preceded
with "@".
<page>

The one-based page or Tab within the applet to display.

System Wizard Run Commands
Open With (File Associations):
rundll32.exe shell32.dll,OpenAs_RunDLL d:\path\filename.ext
Run Diskcopy Dialog:

rundll32 diskcopy.dll,DiskCopyRunDll
Create New Shortcut Wizard:
rundll32.exe AppWiz.Cpl,NewLinkHere %1
Install New Hardware Wizard:
rundll32.exe sysdm.cpl,InstallDevice_RunDLL
Add Printer Wizard:
rundll32.exe shell32.dll,SHHelpShortcuts_RunDLL AddPrinter
Dial-up Networking Wizard
rundll32.exe rnaui.dll,RnaWizard
Open a Scrap Document:
rundll32.exe shscrap.dll,OpenScrap_RunDLL /r /x %1
Create a Briefcase:
rundll32.exe syncui.dll,Briefcase_Create
View Printers:
rundll32.exe shell32.dll,SHHelpShortcuts_RunDLL PrintersFolder
View Fonts:
rundll32.exe shell32.dll,SHHelpShortcuts_RunDLL FontsFolder
Pick a Time Zone Dialog:
rundll32.exe shell32.dll,Control_RunDLL timedate.cpl,,/f
Logoff and Lock with proper icon: Download here. Open the .zip, then copy and paste each file
onto the Desktop.
Tip: Added notes for VB
Formatting a Floppy: Shell ("Rundll32.exe shell32.dll,SHFormatDrive")
Remove IE Branding: Shell ("Rundll32.exe iedkcs32.dll,Clear")
Run Control Panel Programs - VB Code
Great Resource - Listings from A to Z - Rundll32 Reference Command Guide
Miscellaneous RunDLL32 Commands
BASIC and General RUNDLL32 COMMANDS
Note: Scroll up for regsvr32 commands.
Tip:
Restore the Run Command (Line 57)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Clear Run Command History (Line 41)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

Run Keys
A Definition of the Run Keys in the Windows XP Registry
Run History
Clear Recent File Lists - Includes the Run Menu (Line 41)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Clear Run History: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\RunMRU
You can remove your history from here: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\TypedURLs
RunDLL32 Commands
Great Resource - Listings from A to Z
Rundll32 Reference Command Guide
Miscellaneous RunDLL32 Commands
Rundll32.exe - Unable To Locate Component
"Application Has Failed to Start Because Framedyn.dll Was Not Found" Error Message When
You Open the System Properties Dialog Box
RunOnce and Run Registry Keys
Run and RunOnce registry keys cause programs to run each time that a user logs on. The data
value for a key is a command line. Register programs to run by adding entries of the form
description-string=commandline. You can write multiple entries under a key. If more than one
program is registered under any particular key, the order in which those programs run is
indeterminate.
Windows NT 4.0, Windows 2000, Windows XP and Windows .NET Server registry includes the
following four keys:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
By default, the value of a RunOnce key is deleted before the command line is run. You can prefix
a RunOnce value name with an exclamation point (!) to defer deletion of the value until after the
command runs. Without the exclamation point prefix, if the RunOnce operation fails the
associated program will not be asked to run the next time you start the computer.
By default, these keys are ignored when the computer is started in Safe Mode. Starting with
Windows NT 4.0 SP3, the value name of RunOnce keys can be prefixed with an asterisk (*) to
force the program to run even in Safe mode.

A program run from any of these keys should not write to the key during its execution because
this will interfere with the execution of other programs registered under the key.
Applications should use the RunOnce or RunOnceServices keys only for transient conditions,
such as to complete application setup. An application must not continually recreate entries under
RunOnce or RunOnceServices because this will interfere with Windows Setup.
Run and RunOnce keys are run each time a new user logs in. RunServices and RunServicesOnce
are run in the background when the logon dialog box first appears or at this stage of the boot
process if there is no logon.
These keys are for background services such as remote registry service and are run only once per
boot. The Setup key is run only by Setup's first-boot activities, or after you use the Add/Remove
Programs Wizard. This key displays the progress dialog box as the keys are run one at a time. For
the Setup key, the name of the value is the name that is displayed in the dialog box.
Running Services - Changing Priority
In the Task Manager, right-click on a process and change the priority. Often, you can increase or
decrease a process' priority using Task Manager. This can be used to shorten the amount of time
that it takes for an application to complete a task. It can also be used to slow down a process, to
keep it from maxing out your system's CPU.
In Task Manager, click the Process tab to bring it to the forefront. Then right click the process
whose priority you would like to change, hold the mouse cursor over "Set Priority" to bring up the
submenu of Realtime, High, Normal or Low. Some processes cannot have their priorities changed
from the Task Manager, in which case you will be informed that "Access is denied." In order to
figure out which process represents a running application, right-click that application on the
Applications tab in Task Manager, and choose "Go to Process."
WinTask
Using WinTasks 4 Standard you can easily modify the priority of any process, including hidden
background processes not readily accessible. WinTasks also lets you save the priority settings to a
preset, so that you can easily restore the optimal settings for a specific task by a single click.
WinTasks™ 4 Standard helps home users get the most out of their computers. By terminating
unnecessary programs and freeing up resources WinTasks helps you to optimize your system for a
specific task. With built-in process descriptions, user friendly process names and an intuitive user
interface, WinTasks Standard is an essential addition to any Windows user's toolbox. More
information here.
WMSoftware
Process Idle Tasks
Windows XP includes some self-tuning features, the most important of which is its ability to
optimize the layout of files on the system's disk using your own disk usage patterns as a guide.
Windows XP tracks your usage patterns as you work, and then it schedules the optimization as a
low-priority task. Windows XP queues this low-priority task (and others) and waits to execute
them until the system isn't otherwise busy.

Scripting for MCSEs
Service Configuration
Strange Services Running
Optimize Windows XP
Running Tasks and Services
Start/Run/CMD then type in: tasklist -svc

~
S
~
Safe Mode
Two options: During a boot, tap the F8 key or go to Start/Run/Msconfig/Boot.ini and check off
/SafeBoot/Apply, reboot.
A Description of the Safe Boot Mode Options in Windows XP
Safe Mode - Boot Switches
Safe-Mode Boot Switches for Windows Boot.ini File
SafeDisc
Microsoft Games SafeDisc Windows XP Fix
http://www.xp-erience.org/article.php?sid=959&mode=thread&order=0
"Safely Remove Hardware"
To have it show:
With the external drive plugged in, right click the drive in the folders list, then left click Properties
and Hardware. Left Click the name of the external drive in this list, then click Properties and
Policies. This takes you to the "Write caching and safe removal page". The default position in my
XP is "Optimize for quick removal" not "Optimize for performance" as implied by Freecom and
Microsoft. You can put the icon in the notification area by clicking the underlined "Safely Remove
Hardware" on this page.
Thanks to Donald Orme.
To remove it:
If you have an USB device attached to your system, you will notice an icon in the Notification
area, which - when clicked will give you the option to Stop your hardware, before you unplug it.

It is possible that you never unplug this hardware. So how do you get rid of the icon? Right-click
the notification area, and selecting Properties. Under the Notification area heading, click
Customize. Find the Safely Remove Hardware icon and select Always hide in the Behavior
column next to it (press OK and Apply to back out).
Computer Does Not Respond After You Use "Safely Remove Hardware" to Remove External
Hard Disk Drive
Sasser - W32.Sasser Removal Tool
To prevent the 60 second shutdown: Go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: shutdown -a
Once done: Download the FxSasser.exe file from:
http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/FxSasser.exe.
The process takes around 15 minutes to complete and works perfectly!
Note: System Restore option in Windows XP
Users of Windows XP should temporarily turn off System Restore. Windows XP uses this feature,
which is enabled by default, to restore the files on your computer in case they become damaged. If
a virus, worm, or Trojan infects a computer, System Restore may back up the virus, worm, or
Trojan on the computer.
Windows prevents outside programs, including antivirus programs, from modifying System
Restore. Therefore, antivirus programs or tools cannot remove threats in the System Restore
folder. As a result, System Restore has the potential of restoring an infected file onto your
computer, even after you have cleaned the infected files from all the other locations.
Also, a virus scan may detect a threat in the System Restore folder even though you have removed
the threat.
For instructions on how to turn off System Restore:
"How to turn off or turn on Windows XP System Restore"
More information here:
http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/w32.sasser.removal.tool.html
Once clean, run the MS Patch: http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/bulletin/ms04011.mspx
Save Settings on Exit
Normally when Windows exits it saves the desktop configuration, including icon location,
appearance etc. This setting disables these changes from being saved, this is useful in both a
secure environment.
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value called 'NoSaveSettings' set the value to
equal '0'.
Exit your registry, you may need to restart for the changes to take effect.

Or you can apply this registry edit from my site:
Save Settings on Exit (Line 54)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the Regedit: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting
Edit.
For Pro, there is a gpedit setting under User Configurations/Administrative
Templates/Desktop/Don't save settings at exit that activates the changes
made here:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Group Policy
Objects\LocalUser\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Save Target As
When you right-click a Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) link in Microsoft Internet Explorer,
the Save Target As and Print Target commands may be unavailable. In addition, when you click
Print on the File menu, the Print All Linked Documents check box may be unavailable. This
behavior can occur if Content Advisor is enabled. More information here.
Save Target As and Print Target Commands Are Unavailable
Scan for Hardware Changes
To automate the process: Download Devcon.Exe from here. Extract it, then place the .exe in your
Windows directory. Once done, download rescan.bat from here and place it into the Startup
Folder.
Scanner
"Could Not Enable TWAIN Source" or "There Is No Scanner Found"
Problems Using UMAX Astra 2200 USB Scanner with Windows XP
Windows XP: List of Scanners That Are Supported by Windows Image
Scanner Resolution Limits When You Use WIA Drivers
Problems Using SCSI Scanner Without an Updated ASPI Layer
Scanner Does Not Work After Computer Returns from Standby
After You Install a Visioneer USB Scanner CPU Usage May Be High
Found Hardware Wizard Identifies Kodak DS 4500 Scanner as 4000
When You Install Scanner Install Program Cannot Locate Driver
Device Manager Displays Multiple Scanners When Only One Exists
Scanner and Camera Wizard Continues to Show Deleted Pictures
Programs May Not Work with a Scanner or a Camera in Windows XP
Plug and Play Devices Don't Appear in Add Scanner and Camera Wiz
Scanner Not Found - Lexmark
HP Scanjet Scanner - USB Scanner Quits Working, Scanner not Found or Scanner Could not be

Initialized Error Message, or Scanner Is Listed as an Unknown Device in Microsoft (R) Windows
95, 98, Me and XP. Suggested fix here.
HP Scanjet - USB Devices Quit Working Unexpectedly in Microsoft(R) Windows XP
Tip: AGFA scanner and probably all other AGFA scanners using the FotoLook software
package. This software installs the TWAIN drivers in a new directory called
"/windows/twain_32", unlike the system directory "/windows/twain32" normal users are not given
"change" or "write" access to this directory and thus the scanner only works for administrators.
Changing the access rights and everyone can use the scanner. [UZ]
Scanreg - for XP
Try NTRegOpt from http://home.t-online.de/home/lars.hederer/erunt/. It's the same as a scanreg
/fix.
Scheduled Tasks - Disable in IE
IE 6.0 wants to run a scheduled task every time it connects to a server. This results in slower
browsing. To disable this delete the following key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\explorer\RemoteCo
mputer\NameSpace\
{D6277990-4C6A-11CF-8D87-00AA0060F5BF}.
Scheduled Tasks - Applying/Running tasks without a password
For Pro: Go to Start/Administrative Tools/'Local Security Policy/Security Settings\Local
Policies\Security Options
Accounts: Limit local account use of blank passwords to console logon only. This is enabled by
default, disable it.
For Home: (Keith Miller) Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Lsa
Value name: limitblankpassworduse, Type: REG_DWORD, Data: 0 (disabled) 1 (enabled)
For Home: Run Scheduled Task without a Password (Line 67)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
How to Enable Automatic Logon in Windows
HOW TO: Modify Scheduled Tasks in Windows XP
Task Scheduler Does Not Run Tasks When "Run As" User Account Has No Password
Scheduled Tasks- AutoRun
Q. What is the secret to getting tasks to run when no one is logged on when using Windows XP?
-schedule service is running, set to automatic, log on as 'local system'
-task is scheduled to run under an user account which is an administrator
-task is scheduled to run under an user account with a password
-task itself is legit as it will run when executed directly

-task schedule setup is valid as it will run IF I remain logged on
-Event log shows nothing
-task log shows no attempt to run the task
-task status is 0x0, but that is irrelevant since 'time last run' reveals it was not run at all
Since schedule runs as a service with startup set to automatic and logon set to 'local system', one
would
assume that schedule service begins running when the computer is started, regardless of whether
or not anyone
logs on. Since the task is set up to run with an administrator logon complete with password, one
would assume that since the schedule service is running, at the scheduled time it would logon as
the designated user and run the task.
A. You need to replace the Task Scheduler Log File which can be accomplished quite easily. If
you follow these
exact instructions, the shedlgu.txt file will be replaced with a brand new one without any
information other than
system start-up information upon the first boot. Click Start>Click Run> and type msconfig> click
Selective
Startup and uncheck the Load System Services check box. Click OK and wait for the hour glass to
stop. Restart
the computer, click OK to the first Window that indicates that you have selected "Selective
Startup".
When the System Configuration Utility reappears, Check the Normal Startup Box. Click Start>
Click Search> Click All Files and Folders Category and type schedlgu.txt and Enter. Windows
will search and locate the schedlgu.txt file. Press Stop
as soon as the file is located. Right click on the file schedlgu.txt and delete and send to the recycle
bin. Now restart the computer again by selecting Start>Turn Off Computer and Select Restart.
You will now have a new Task Scheduler Log File. You may check the new Log File and the one
start up entry that I described by selecting Run and typing the file name schedlgu.txt and click
OK. Appearing will be your new Task Scheduler Log.
Scheduled Tasks - Not Running
Go to C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Microsoft\Crypto\RSA\S-1-5-18
and delete the files in there.
Scheduled Tasks will recreate the files needed.
Note: This folder is hidden by default. Go to Start/Run and type in: control folders. View: Show
hidden files and folders.
Scheduled Tasks - Settings
Start/All Programs/Accessories/System Tools/Scheduled Tasks. On the last screen, check off
Show Advanced Options. Under Advanced/Settings/Idle Time (Only start... and Stop the task...).
You can schedule a task for inactivity. Use this to lock the desktop after 10 minutes of idle time.
Use this shortcut for the task: C:\Windows\System32\rundll32.exe user32.dll,LockWorkStation.
To schedule a logoff procedure for XP, use this: C:\Windows\System32\shutdown -l as the

scheduled task.
To schedule a logoff procedure:
C:\Windows\System32\shutdown.exe -l
To schedule a shutdown and reboot:
C:\Windows\System32\shutdown.exe -r
To schedule a shutdown with a message: (-t represents 60 seconds)
C:\WINDOWS\system32\shutdown.exe -s -t 60 -c "Message goes here!"
For a specific app: C:\WINDOWS\system32\shutdown.exe -r -f
For more information go to Start/Run and type in: cmd /k shutdown
Screen Savers
Screen Saver Disable and Screen Saver Enable (Line 51)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Screen Saver May Not Start in Windows XP
Screen Savers - Active Authentication for Unlock
This setting controls whether a full login should be performed when a workstation is unlocked or
a password is used with the screen saver. Normally Windows will not check some settings such as
whether the account has been locked out.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Value Name: ForceUnlockLogon
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: 0 = default authentication, 1 = online authentication
You may need to create the key if it does not already exist. Create a new DWORD value, or
modify the existing value, called 'ForceUnlockLogon' and edit the value according to the settings
below. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take
effect. Note: For Windows XP this behavior only happens when you have Fast User Switching
disabled.
Screen Savers - Delete
They're considered operating system files and are protected from being deleted or overwritten. If
you really want to delete them, delete the copy in Windows\System32\dllcache first, then the one
in Windows\System32. You'll be given a warning that the files are missing/corrupt. Tell it not to
replace them.
Screen Saver - Hibernate and Standby
The Computer Cannot Enter Standby or Hibernate If a Direct3D-Based Screen Saver Is Running

Screen Saver - Make Screen Savers from Web Channels
Some channels (specialized Web-based content sources) provide content in the form of a screen
saver. These channels usually offer to install their screen saver when you install their channel. If
they don't, you can install a screen saver for any channel installed on your system yourself. To
activate the screen saver, right-click your desktop, then click Properties. Click the Screen Saver
tab. In the Screen Saver list, click Channel Screen Saver. Click Settings, and then choose the
settings you want.
Screen Saver - Preventing the Screen Saver from Becoming Active
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop. Value Name: ScreenSaveActive, Data Type:
REG_SZ (String Value), Value Data: (0 = disabled, 1 =enabled). Change the value of
'ScreenSaveActive' to '0' to disable the screen saver. Restart Windows for the change to take
effect. Note: Windows has a default screen saver called logon.scr, which runs even if no screen
saver has been selected.
Screen Saver - Replace
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop
Locate the SCRNSAVE.EXE entry in the right pane and modify it to the one you desire. SCR files
are located in Windows\System32 by default, but you may have some add-on screen savers in the
Windows folder.
Screen Saver - Set to None
Check your settings here: Go to Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop
Scrnsave.exe = C:\Windows\System32\logon.scr
Verify your Time while there as well and choose accordingly:
ScreenSaveTimeOut = (set your preference)
Also make sure none of the screensavers are wrapped in double quotes as in:
""c:\windows\system32\screensavername.scr""
More information and checkpoints: Check your setting for the screensavers path.
Here are some examples:
Marine Aquarium 2.scr > rename it to > MarineAquarium2.scr
In the registry, screensaver will work correctly if it is listed as so:
c:\windows\system32\marine~1.scr
Screen Savers do not work correctly if listed as so:
""c:\windows\system32\marine aquarium 2.scr""

Troubleshooting Screen Saver Issues in XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_s.htm#ss
Screen Saver May Not Start in Windows XP'
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;326719
Screen Saver - Welcome Screen (Stop from going to the Welcome Screen)
Right click the Desktop/Properties/Screen Saver tab, look at the options for your Screen saver and
also Uncheck the "On resume, password protect" option.
Also in the Monitor Power settings using the Power button. Look on the Advanced tab, and the
Options section, uncheck the "Prompt for password when computer resumes from standby"
option.
Change the Screen Saver Grace Period
This setting determines when password protection of a screen saver becomes effective. By default,
a brief period elapses within which the user can use the mouse or the keyboard to stop the screen
saver without entering the password.
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsNT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called "ScreenSaverGracePeriod" and
set it according to the value data: 0 - 2,147,483 seconds (approximately 24 days). Exit your
registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Screen - Refresh
Click Start, click Control Panel, click Appearance and Themes, and then click Display.
Alternatively, right-click the desktop, and then click Properties. Click the Settings tab, and then
click Advanced. Click the Monitor tab, and then click the screen refresh rate that you want to use.
NOTE:
The default refresh rate setting is 60 Hertz (HZ); however, your monitor may support a higher
setting. Check your manufacturer's documentation for information about the settings that your
monitor supports.
If you use a higher refresh rate, you can reduce the rate that your screen flickers; however, if you
specify a refresh rate that is too high for your monitor, your screen may become unusable and
your hardware may be damaged.
Changes to the refresh rate affect all users that log on to the computer.
HOW TO: Change the Screen Refresh Rate of Your Monitor in Windows XP
Screen Saver Troubleshooting
Screen Saver Won't Start - Check your settings here: Go to Start/Run/Regedit

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop or: HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control
Panel\Desktop
ScreenSaveTimeOut = (set your preference)
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Control Panel\Desktop
ScreenSaverIsSecure
0 - Screen savers are not password-protected.
1 - All screen savers are password-protected.
Verify that the ScreenSaver has been placed in the C:\WINDOWS\System32 Folder. Make sure
that the screensaver starts with " ss " e.g.. if the screensaver name is " pictures " rename it to "
sspictures".
Screensaver gets set to None
Check your settings here: Go to Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop. Scrnsave.exe =
C:\Windows\System32\logon.scr
Verify your Time while there as well and choose accordingly: ScreenSaveTimeOut = (set your
preference)
Also make sure none of the screensavers are wrapped in double quotes as in:
""c:\windows\system32\screensavername.scr""
And try adding: ss in front of the screensaver name.
Screen Saver Disable and Screen Saver Enable (Line 51)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Restore: On Resume, Display Welcome Screen (Line 161)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Restore the Desktop and Screensaver Tabs (Line 128)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Deleting ScreenSavers
They are considered operating system files and are protected from being deleted or overwritten.
To delete them, delete the copy in Windows\System32\dllcache first, then the one in
Windows\System32. You'll be given a warning that the files are missing/corrupt. Tell it not to
replace them.
Script Debugger
IE/Tools/Internet Options/Advanced/Disable Script Debugging and Display a notification about
every script error.
Disable the Script Debugger in IE (Line 142)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
How to Troubleshoot Script Errors in Internet Explorer

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;q181698&
If you continue to get the errors after trying the above and/or the settings become unchecked,
rename mdm.exe
When Internet Explorer detects an error on a page it has the ability to launch a script debugger to
diagnose the problem. This setting controls the use of the Internet Explorer script debugging
functions.
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main
Create a new string value, or modify the existing value, named "Disable Script Debugger" and set
it to either "yes" to disable the debugger or "no" to enable it.
Restart Internet Explorer for the change to take effect.
Search - All File Types
Go to Search/All Files and Folders/More Advanced Options/Change Indexing Service/Index
unknown file types.
Search for All File Types (Line 136)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
If this doesn't help...
Windows® XP has a known issue for not finding a number of File Types when you do a Search
for Files "containing text" or using the "A word or phrase in the file" option. This can be remedied
for many file types, but not all.
Download the VBS file below. Double click the file you just saved. You'll be prompted to enter a
file extension. If the PersistentHandler value is correct, no changes will be made. If the
PersistentHandler value exists, but is different, no changes will be made. If no PersistentHandler
value exists, then it will be created.
Enable XP's Search to find text in files:
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/scripts/xp_persisthandler.vbs
Manual Edit:
To resolve this problem for other file types, install a program that registers a filter for the file type
that you want to search. If no program that provides a filter is available, you can use the plain text
filter for a file type.
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and add a PersistentHandler key under the file type key in
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT and set its (Default) string value name to the following value:
{5e941d80-bf96-11cd-b579-08002b30bfeb}
For example, to use the text filter provider for .pas files, the following registry setting should
exist:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.zzz\PersistentHandler\(Default) = {5e941d80-bf96-11cd-b579-

08002b30bfeb}
After you add this value to the registry, you must log off and then log back on to make the change
take effect.
Using the "A Word or Phrase in the File" Search Criterion May Not Work
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;Q309173
Search - Doesn't Work
Open Explorer and go to the Windows\Inf folder. Locate the srchasst.inf file. Right click it and
select Install. You'll need your XP CD or the files from the I386 folder. (This fix will require you
to have your Win XP CD).
The Windows\Inf folder is a hidden folder. You can adjust your Explorer Folder Options (View
tab) to Show hidden files and folders. You can also click Start, Run and enter %SystemRoot%\Inf
to open directly to the Inf folder.
Error: "A file that is required to run Search Companion cannot be found. You may need to
run setup".
The file that is missing, or corrupt, is one of two. BAR.XSL or BALLOON.XSL (and/or other
files in the same folder), depending on your search preferences. These files are both normally
located in the Windows\srchasst\mui\0409 folder on your hard drive. These files may be locally
cached in the Temporary Internet Files, so this may explain why some users have this problem
"intermittently".
Error Message: "A File That Is Required to Run Search Companion Cannot Be Found" (Q315330)
Windows XP Search Companion Does Not Work Because of File Corruption (Downloadable Fix)
The problem stems from Search Assistant being unable to connect to http://sa.windows.com. This
can be caused by proxy servers, firewalls and some "ad blocking" software.
Yellow Triangle with Exclamation Point
Option 1. Depending on your version of TweakUI, run it, go to the Desktop settings and put the
check mark back in Search Results.
Option 2. If you don't have TweakUI installed, or this option isn't available in your version, copy
and paste the following lines into a Notepad file and save the file with an REG extension. Make
sure to add a blank line at the end of the file.
Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Deskto
p\NameSpace\
{e17d4fc0-5564-11d1-83f2-00a0c90dc849}]
@="Search Results Folder"
Locate the file you just saved and double click it. Answer yes to the import prompt.
Option 3: Apply this edit:

Search Shows Yellow Triangle with ! (Line 75)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the VBS File: Download .vbs file and save it to your hard drive (you may want to right
click and use Save Target As). Double-click the vbs file. You will be prompted when the script is
done.
Search Assistant - Change Default Search Order
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ Explorer.
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value), Value Data: (0 = unselected, 1 = selected).
Modify the following values, setting them to "1" to select the parameter as a default or "0" as
unselected. CaseSensitive, IncludeSubFolders, SearchHidden, SearchSlowFiles,
SearchSystemDirs. Restart or logoff Windows for the change to take effect.
Stop Search from Scanning ZIP files:
Un-register the zip and cab file dlls, then re-register them after that.
Before Search:
regsvr32 /u zipfldr.dll
regsvr32 /u cabview.dll
After Search:
regsvr32 cabview.dll
regsvr32 zipfldr.dll
Tip: Windows XP keeps a record of all files on the hard disk so when you do a search on the
hard drive it is faster.
There is a downside to this and because the computer has to index all files, it will slow
down normal file commands
like open, close, etc. If you do not do a whole lot of searches on your hard drive then I
suggest turning this feature
off: Open My Computer/Right click your hard drive/properties. Uncheck "Allow
indexing service to index this disk
for faster searches". Apply to all folders and subfolders.
HOW TO: Disable Automatic Search for Network Printers and Folders in Windows XP
Search - Advanced Options (Set as Default)
Download this .vbs file and save it to your Windows Directory. Once done, download this .reg
file, and run it.
"IF" Windows XP is not installed in C:\, open this .reg file in Notepad and modify the lines that
read:
"Param1"="c:\\windows\\searchadvancedoptions.vbs"
"command"="c:\\windows\\searchadvancedoptions.vbs"

To for example:
"Param1"="d:\\windows\\searchadvancedoptions.vbs"
"command"="d:\\windows\\searchadvancedoptions.vbs"
Once done, save the file then apply the edit.
Note: Search Options "must" be left opened when using File/Close for this to work. From there
you can use Alt/O.
Note2: Special thanks to David Candy.
Tip: To have all options checked as default under Advanced Options, run this .reg file.
Tip: To rename Search, run this script. Note: It must be run last if using the above edits.
Set All Search Options to Active (Line 148)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the Regedits: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting
Edit.
To use the VBS Files: Download .vbs file and save it to your hard drive (you may want to right
click and use Save Target As). Double click the vbs file. You will be prompted when the script is
done.
NOTE: If your anti-virus software warns you of a "malicious" script, this is normal if you have
"Script Safe" or similar technology enabled. These scripts are not malicious, but they do make
changes to the System Registry.
Search Assistant - Disable
Automated Edit:
Disable Search Assistant (Line 15)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual Edit:
Start/Run/Regedit - Windows Explorer
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\CabinetState.
In the right pane, look for or create a string value called: Use Search Asst set the value to: no
Start/Run/Regedit - Internet Explorer
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main. Same value: Use Search
Asst and the same setting.
Restart Internet Explorer for the change to take effect.
Search Companion
All Errors, Issues and Fixes

Search - Change Defaults
Automated Edit:
Set All Search Items to Active (Line 148)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual Edit: To Change Default Search Options, go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this
key:
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer]
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = unselected, 1 = selected)
Modify the following values, setting them to "1" to select the parameter as a default or "0" as
unselected.
CaseSensitive
IncludeSubFolders
SearchHidden
SearchSlowFiles
SearchSystemDirs
Restart or logoff Windows for the change to take effect.
Search - Clear History
Automated Edit:
Clear Search History under Search (Line 24)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual Edit:
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Search Assistant\ACMru
To prevent keeping a history altogether, right click ACMru/Permissions/Deny all users and groups
listed. Alternatively, IE/Search/Change Preferences/Turn AutoComplete Off.
If you prefer not to edit the registry, this utility will do it for you: Clears Run History, Typed
URL's, etc.
Clear Recent File Lists (Search History Clear) Line 41
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Search - Freezes
To disable the Indexing service: Go to Start/Administrative Tools/Services. Double click Services
and find the Indexing Service. Double click/properties/Stop. From the Status Type Box, select
Disabled.

If it switches back at boot:
Disable the Indexing Service (Line 42)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Search - Internet Access Needed (Disable the Action)
Search Assistant will try to connect to http://sa.windows.com This is done to check for updates to
its features, tips, wording and etc. Not allowing access can cause its own set of problems, usually
a "A file that is required........." error message.
You can stop the internet access by changing the search behavior to Classic Search.
Disable Search Assistant (Line 15)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Old Style Search Engine On/Off (Line 49)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Or...
Use TweakUI, Explorer section to set Classic Search:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/downloads/powertoys.asp
Or you can make the change manually.
Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT. Go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Cabinet State
Right click in the right pane and select New, String value and name the value Use Search Asst.
Double click the new value and enter "no", without the quotes.
A File That Is Required to Run Search Companion Cannot Be Found
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q319949
Search - Missing from the Start Menu
Restore/Place Search on the Start Menu (Line 166)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Note: If have more than 11 items listed on the right side in blue, both Run and Search will be
dropped off. If this is the case, remove some items by right clicking the Start
button/Properties/Customize/Advanced.
Search - Rename
Rename Search on the Start Menu
Search - Text

Windows® XP has a known issue for not finding a number of File Types when you do a Search
for Files "containing text" or using the "A word or phrase in the file" option. This can be remedied
for many file types, but not all. The cause is the lack of a PersistentHandler value in the Registry
for this type of file. Fix: http://www.dougknox.com/xp/tips/xp_bad_search.htm
To Add Specific extensions: Copy these lines into Notepad including a blank last line, change
where it reads .php to the extension of your choice, save with a .reg extension (ex. php.reg), then
double click.
Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.php\PersistentHandler]
@="{5e941d80-bf96-11cd-b579-08002b30bfeb}"
Here are some already created: .htm , php, java , html , xls , doc
Search for All Files (Line 136)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Speed up Windows XP Search
http://xpsearch.info/xpsearch.htm
Search Tool Does Not Search for Some Words or Phrases in Text Files
The "A Word or Phrase in the File" Search Criterion May Not Work
Content Search Does Not Search All File Types for a String
Search Engine - Change to Google
Automated Edit:
Add Google as Primary Search (Line 18)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Go to Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main
"Search Page"="http://www.google.com"
"Search Bar"="http://www.google.com/ie"
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\SearchURL
""="http://www.google.com/keyword/%s"
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Search
"SearchAssistant"="http://www.google.com/ie"
To change the Search Companion and address bar search to Google, you must disable the Search
Companion, change the AutoSearch URL, and then re-enable Search Companion.
To disable the Search Companion feature and use the Classic Internet Search feature open Internet
Explorer, click the Search button on the toolbar. Click Change Preferences, and then click Change
Internet search behavior. Click With Classic Internet Search, and then click OK. Restart Internet
Explorer for the changes to take effect.

To change the autosearch URL, open the Search sidebar again and click Customize. Then click
AutoSearch settings and select "Google Sites".
To re-enable the Search Companion feature, click Customize on the Search bar. Click Use Search
Companion in the Customize Search Settings dialog box, and then click OK. Restart Internet
Explorer for the changes to take effect.
TweakUI/Internet Explorer/Search/Create. Prefix: g
URL: http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&num=100&q=%s
Search Google from the Address Bar & KB Q#'s (Line 65)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use: Type g (followed by a space) then the search line
To use: Type gk (followed by a space) then Q######
Remove Google Search History (Line 33)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual Edit:
Go to the key listed below:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System Provider\
S-1-5-21-1960408961-220523388-682003330-1003
With the S-1-5-21....in blue, choose File/Export and save it to your deskop and name it (ex).
googlehistoryclear.reg. Leave the registry open then go to your desktop.
Right click the saved reg file and choose Edit. If it needs an association choose Notepad.
Scroll down to these keys:
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System
Provider\S-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa00c04fd929db\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\q:StringData]
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System
Provider\S-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa00c04fd929db\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\q:StringIndex]
To make the search/scroll easier they are listed in alphabetic order and you are looking for the end
of the string in this case \q:StringData and \q:StringIndex. So scroll down to the q's....
Under q:StringData
Highlight what is listed after the word "Behavior"= only up to the words "Item Data"= and delete
it. Then place a - (minus sign) after the = so that it looks like this: "Behavior"=From there hightlight what is listed after the words "Item Data"= only up to the next key and
delete it. Then place a - (minus sign) after the = so that it looks like this:
"Item Data"=-

Do the same for q:StringIndex.
Once done choose File/Save. Use the red X to close. If it asked to save again, answer yes.
Return to the registy and delete this key: (right click, delete, accept the warning)
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System Provider\
S-1-5-21-1960408961-220523388-682003330-1003
Then go back to your desktop and double click your saved regedit, answer yes. Then open Google
and the search history is gone.
To Clear Google Toolbar History
Click on the Google logo to access the drop down menu. Choose the Clear Search History option.
This will clear all the previous searches out of the drop down box.
TIP: If you prefer several search engines:
Create an empty subfolder called "Search Engines" under your Windows folder, and change the
value of the Registry key above to read (replace %windir% with your real Windows folder
name): %windir%\\Search Engines
From now on, when you click that Search button, this empty folder will open in the Search pane.
All the hard work is done, we just need to fill it with Search engines. For this go to
http://www.allonesearch.com/. Start by dragging this URL from the Address bar into the Search
pane. A link to this web page will be created in the Search pane.
Browse through the list of Search engines there, and simply drag the URLs of the ones you like
into the Search pane. You can rename them, customize the folder's appearance, delete them by
right-clicking, change their icons, and generally do all the drag-and-drop natural Windows GUI
things to them that you wish.
NOTE: The only thing that doesn't work well is using subfolders (they don't behave nicely),
however you can work around this by using a modified internet shortcut (via Notepad), to point to
a folder instead (it will open in the main window), if you want to create a hierarchy of specialized
Search engines.
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main
Create a new String value, or modify the existing value, called "Search Bar" and set it to the
Search URL of your choice under value data.
Note: This tweak can also be applied on a per-user basis under the [HKEY_CURRENT_USER]
hive.
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Note2: If you want a choice of several Search engines, create an empty subfolder called "Search
Engines" under your Windows folder, and change the value of the Registry key above to read
(replace %windir% with your real Windows folder name): %windir%\\Search Engines

Fill the folder with Search Engines of your choice. When you click that Search button, this folder
will open in the Search pane.
Search Engine Marketing - Affordable SEO Services
SEMNation focus on providing result-oriented services that include Affordable SEO Services,
Link Building
Services, PPC Search Engine Marketing. Click here for more information.
Searching Help and Support - Disable the Search Word from Being Highlighted in Blue
When searching for a topic in the Help And Support Center, the search feature automatically
highlights the word you searched for every time it occurs in the help topic text. This can be
obnoxious. For example, when we searched for the word “Registry” and then displayed the
Windows Registry help topic, the word Registry occurred twelve times in the text, and each time
was highlighted in blue. To turn this off, click Start, Help And Support, and Set Search Options.
Under Set Search Options, click the Turn On Search Highlight checkbox to deactivate that feature.
While you’re still using Set Search Options, notice the line that reads, Return Up To 15 Results
Per Provider. This means that of all possible search results, up to 15 results will appear from each
of three categories: suggested topics, full-text search matches, and the Microsoft Knowledge
Base. To display more or fewer results for each search, highlight the number 15 and type the
number of maximum results you want to see.
Security and Maintenance
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Use Backup to Protect Data
Copy Files and Folders to a CD
Encrypt Your Data to Keep It Safe
Use Hibernate and Standby to Conserve Batteries
Use Security and Privacy Features in Internet Explorer 6
Security Tab
To Display the Security Tab: Start/Settings/Control Panel/Appearance & Themes/Folder Options.
View/Advanced
and clear "Use Simple File Sharing".
Security Shortcut
In Internet Explorer, the traditional way to adjust your browser's security settings is to click on
Tools / Internet Options / Security -- but there's a faster way: look for a green globe at the bottom
right-hand corner of your browser. Double-click on it, and now you can change your security
settings on the fly!
Send Mail
This add-on context menu item allows you to open a mail client window and add the web page
Title and URL to it.
Handy if you want to refer someone to the page in an E-Mail or Newsgroup post. Requires
Internet Explorer 4 or higher.
The .zip file should contain 3 files:
Readme.txt
Mailto_URL.reg
Mailto_URL.htm
To install, move Mailto_URL.htm to C:\Windows\Web folder, then double-click the
Mailto_URL.reg file to add the context menu key to the Registry.
To use, just right-click anywhere in a web page and select "E-mail page". The URL will be copied
to the subject and the title plus url to the body of the new message

To uninstall, you need to manually edit the Registry, and delete the key:
HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\MenuExt\E-mail Page. Download here. After the
procedure is complete, logoff then log back on.
SENDMAIL.DLL FIX - (Reference)
"When you right-click on a graphic file to e-mail it via "Mail Recipient" from the SendTo menu,
you have to deal every single time with that annoying dialog box: "Do you want to keep the
original size or change the size?", and you are given 3 options to choose from. Also right-clicking
on a file sending places "Emailing:" in the Subject box.
In the Compose mail window you must also delete "Your files are now attached and ready to
send."
But I eliminated all these nuisances by altering WinXP's SENDMAIL.DLL [26 KB, zipped].
Place the "fixed" file into BOTH your %systemroot%\System32 and %systemroot
%\System32\DllCache folders (default XP %systemroot% directory is C:\Windows), overwriting
the original ones.
You may have to go to DOS to actually be able to perform these replacements: see "MS IE 5.5
SP2 + 6.0 FIX" step 6 (SOLUTION + UPDATE), also in MYTIPS95.TXT (part of W9511D.ZIP), to learn how to replace Windows 2000/XP system files already in use. Reboot when
done.
When trying to e-mail a pic, Windows XP may balk and refuse at first, but just click on the red X
to exit the error box, and then when asked if you are sure, just say Yes. BACKUP your
unmodified SENDMAIL.DLL FIRST!"
SendMail.dll - XP Fix Mail (Annoyed with Windows XP mail quirks?)
This fixes the inability of Outlook Express to send text URLs to other mail users from your
Internet Explorer web browser. After some investigation even though other IE6/OE6 users have
normal functionality, their sendmail.dll file is at version 5.5, as opposed to Windows XP users
having version 6.0.
This little routine automatically replaces sendmail.dll with version 5.5. This routine also backs up
your XP V6 sendmail.dll, and the entire procedure can be reversed using the standard
Add/Remove programs from your control panel. The program is called XPfixMail, and as always,
is FREE software courtesy of FrazierWare (A wholly owned imaginary subsidiary of a nonexistent corporation that has no known commercial customers). Download Fix Here.
Sendmail.dll - TweakXP.Com
Fix bug in IE 6.0 sendmail.dll file (Functionality of Menu/Send/Link by Email)
In IE6 when trying to Send/File/Link by Email from the menu bar, IE6 prevents the loaded Web
Address from being copied into the email message area of either OE6 or Outlook XP. This does
not occur in IE 5.5. This is specifically regarding the IE feature, which allows the convenient
quick paste of the Web Address into an email message area without having to manually copy and
paste. (This does not address OE or Outlook security blocking of misc. attachments.)

To fix this, a copy of IE 5.5 sendmail.dll file is required, located in the Windows/System folder.
Delete or rename and/or backup the IE 6.0 sendmail.dll file, which is located in the
Window/System32 folder (Windows XP). Paste the IE 5.5 sendmail.dll into the
Windows/System32 folder. This will allow you to use the Menu/Send/Link by Email function on
the IE 6.0 menu bar.
Send To
Windows Explorer/Documents & Settings/User Name/SendTo or Start/Run/SendTo
How to Add Items to the "Send To" Menu in Windows XP
Sent To - Desktop
Send to Desktop Fix
Open notepad, and create a blank text file named 'Desktop (create shortcut). DESKLINK' Save it
in the %userprofile%/sendto folder.
Send To - Add to Context Menu (Right Click).
Add SendTo the right click. Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\AllFilesystemObjects\shellex\ContextMenuHandlers\Send To]
Create a new String value, or modify the existing value, called "(Default)" and set it to this value
data:
"{7BA4C740-9E81-11CF-99D3-00AA004AE837}". Exit your registry, you may need to restart
or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Tip: Add a Menu Option to Move and Copy Folders. Go to Start/Run/Regedit and
navigate to this key:
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Directory\shellex\ContextMenuHandlers]
To enable the Copy To Folder menu option create a new subkey called "Copy To" and set the
(Default) value to "{C2FBB630-2971-11d1-A18C-00C04FD75D13}".
To enable the Move To Folder menu option create a new subkey called "Move To" and set the
(Default) value to "{C2FBB631-2971-11d1-A18C-00C04FD75D13}". Changes should take
effect immediately, right click on folder to view the new options.
Send To Toys is an enhancement of the Send To system menu: Screenshot and download.
- "Add to Send To menu" and "Remove from Send To menu" allow you to personalize the Send
To system menu for drives,
folders, and programs.
- Send To "Clipboard (as name)" copies the name of the file or files to the clipboard. Hold down
the CTRL key to change
the settings for this extension.
- Send To "Command Prompt" opens a DOS console window, setting the current directory to the
selected folder.

- Send To "Favorites" adds a shortcut to your Favorites list. Hold down the CTRL key for the Add
Favorites system dialog.
- Send To "Folder..." sends a file or files to another folder, you will be shown a dialog box that lets
you choose where the
files should be copied. To move the files press and hold down the SHIFT key.
- Send To "Run..." sends a file or files to the Run command dialog.
Send To - Show "Send to" Context Menu
This setting allows you to control whether the "Send to" context menu is displayed when a file or
directory object is right-clicked in explorer.
Open your registry (Start/Run/Regedit) and find the key below. You may need to create the key if
it does not already exist.
[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\AllFilesystemObjects\shellex\ContextMenuHandlers\Send To]
Value Name: (Default)
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value)
Value Data: (empty = disabled, "{7BA4C740-9E81-11CF-99D3-00AA004AE837}" = enabled)
Create a new String value, or modify the existing value, called '(Default)' and edit the value
according to the settings below. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows
for the change to take effect.
Serious Error Message
The system has recovered from a serious problem. A log of this error has been created. When you
view the System Log in the Event Viewer, you may notice an Event ID 1003. This behavior can
occur if the Windows XP System Restore feature is corrupted.
To resolve this issue, turn off the System Restore feature, and then turn it back on. To do this,
follow these steps. NOTE: You must turn on the System Restore feature after you turn it off to
resolve this issue. Click Start, click Control Panel, click Switch to Classic View, and then doubleclick System. Click the System Restore tab, and the click to select the Turn off System Restore
check box. Click OK, and then click Yes to confirm that you want to turn off the System Restore
feature.
Restart the computer.
You may receive the following error message when you restart Windows: The system has
recovered from a serious problem. A log of this error has been created. Click Start, click Control
Panel, and then double-click System. Click the System Restore tab, and the click to clear the Turn
off System Restore check box. Click OK, and then restart the computer.
Use of these options to rid of the error message:
Windows XP Patch: System Recovery Error Appears After Every Reboot:
You Receive a "System Has Recovered from a Serious Error" Message After Every Restart

Use one of these three:
1. Right Click the My Computer
Icon/Properties/Advanced/Performance/Settings/Advanced/Change. Set Page File to 0, ok your
way out and reboot. Then follow the same procedure and reset the Page File to System Managed
File.
2. Right Click the My Computer Icon/Properties/Advanced/Performance/Advanced/Virtual
Memory/Change/No Page File. Reboot. Then delete C:\Pagefil.Sys then revert the page file
setting.
3. Right Click the My Computer Icon/Properties/Advanced/Performance/Advanced/Virtual
Memory/Change. Set the swap file size to zero, reboot. Re-set to System Managed, reboot. Reset
the Custom setting, reboot.
Report Error's to Microsoft Automatically
Start/Run/gpedit.msc/Computer Configuration/Administrative Templates/System/Error Reporting.
Right click Report Errors/Properties. Check off Enable and then check off, Do not display links to
any MS provided more information web sites. Apply, ok.
Services - Disable (Source Unknown)
To disable unneeded startup services for a safer, faster XP, use the "Services" Admin Tool
(Control Panel/Administrative Tools/Services). If you are a single user of a non-networked
machine, you can disable the following items, with no ill effect.
Alerter
Clipbook
Computer Browser
Fast User Switching
Human Interface Access Devices
Indexing Service (Slows the hard drive down)
Messenger
Net Logon (unnecessary unless networked on a Domain)
Netmeeting Remote Desktop Sharing (disabled for extra security)
Remote Desktop Help Session Manager (disabled for extra security)
Remote Procedure Call Locator
Remote Registry (disabled for extra security)
Routing & Remote Access (disabled for extra security)
Server
SSDP Discovery Service ("Universal P'n'P", & leaves TCP Port 5000 wide open)
TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper
Telnet (disabled for extra security)
Universal Plug and Play Device Host
Upload Manager
Windows Time
Wireless Zero Configuration (for wireless networks)
Workstation
Services - Listed and Explained

Windows XP Services
Services - Here is a way to figure out which services to set as Automatic and which to set as
manual or disabled.
Step1: Set ALL your services to *manual* setting.
Step2: Reboot computer and wait for windows XP to load. XP will boot pretty slowly, since it has
to turn on each service
separately. Use your computer for a bit, doing what you normally do during a computing
session. This will allow any
other services to activate (such as DHCP or other services that didn't load during the boot
process).
Step3: Go back to the list of services, and see which ones are Started. Change the services that
are marked as Started, to
*Automatic*. This way windows will automatically load all of the services that you
normally use, and the ones that
you don't use will stay unloaded.
Tip: Services Running - Alter to Improve Performance
DNS Client - Automatic / Manual - This service is responsible for DNS lookup so disable at your
own risk!
IPSEC Services - Automatic / Manual
Messenger - Automatic / Manual
Remote Registry - Automatic / Manual
Automatic Updates - Automatic / Disabled
Computer Browser - Automatic / Manual
Distributed Link Tracking Client - Automatic / Manual
Portable Media Serial Number - Automatic / Disabled
Task Scheduler - Automatic / Manual
Service Packs and Components
You can use the SPCheck to determine the service pack level of installed components on
computers.
The SPCheck tool generates a report that lists the origin of each file for each installed component.
Download XPSP Chk.exe
Which fixes are included in Service Pack 1?
Setup
Get Ready to Set Up Windows XP Professional
Setup Issues and Conflicts
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_setup.htm
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_conflicts.htm
Setup Stops Responding (Hangs) During File Copy
Error Msg: Cannot find file: \Windows\System32\hal.dll
Cannot Install Windows XP from a Folder That Is Not Named i386
"NTLDR Is Missing" Error Message When You Upgrade or Install Windows XP Over Win95/98,

or Win Me
Troubleshooting Invalid CD Key Error Message During Windows XP Setup
"Path Specified in Setup Is Invalid" Error Message When You Try to Install Windows XP
Error Message "Setup Cannot Upgrade..." When You Upgrade to Windows XP Pro
Message About Pressing ESC to Restart Your Computer During Windows XP Setup
Error Message: Setup Cannot Continue. Please Contact Microsoft Technical Support. (Error:
3E6h)
Tip: Since Win2K, it has been possible to hit Shift-F10 during setup to get a console window.
This can be great to see what's hanging up an install or look up info left in a text file, but it has
obvious limited usefulness - it's too darned
hard to do some operations from a console window!
What you can do, however, is use "Winfile" from the very moment that setup starts. It needs to be
the NT version - either NT 4 or 3.51 will work, and presumably earlier versions also. The
WfW3.11 or Win9x version *will not* work
on 2000/XP.
Since Winfile is only 244 K, it can be carried around comfortably on a tech floppy or burned onto
a tools CD. Not an everyday need, but when you do need file browse ability during an XP setup,
you really need it.
Setup and Installation
Triple Boot Win9x/Win2K/Win XP
Step-by-Step Guide to Migrating Files and Settings
Setupp.ini - (Reference)
How to verify XP software you bought is OEM/UPGRADE/RETAIL?
I am sure we all have noticed Microsoft product marketing strategy. Whenever they launch any
new product line, there are various flavors of it available right from day one. Some are given
adjectives like UPGRADE version or FULL, others RETAIL v/s OEM and then of-course we
have various categories of the product like HOME, PRO , SERVER , ADVANCED SERVER etc
etc.
Well ever wondered what you bought is same as what was advertised ? How to tell the difference.
Here comes the help. Look for a file called Setupp.ini that is present on your Windows XP CD
and double click on it and browse its content. There is a field called PID=. This PID is what would
tell us exactly what we have got.First 5 bytes of PID decide whether (it is OEM or RETAIL or is
an UPGRADE ) and last three digits determine what kind of CD KEY will it accept. Here are
some of the typical PID values:
Retail = 51882 335
Volume License = 51883 270
OEM = 82503 OEM
Shared Documents - Remove
Start/Run/Regedit

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\My
Computer\NameSpace\ DelegateFolders
Delete this key {59031a47-3f72-44a7-89c5-5595fe6b30ee}. The Shared Documents folders
(which are normally under the group called "Other Files Stored on This Computer") will be gone.
Shell Icon Cache - Clear/Delete
In Case you are having problems with the ShellIconCache file and deleting it does not help, a
quick method for fixing these problems is to right-click on the desktop and choose Properties. In
the Display Properties dialog box, click the Appearance tab. From the Item drop-down list, choose
Icon. Click the up arrow in the Size box to increase it by one pixel. Click Apply, click the down
arrow in the Size box to return the icons to their previous dimensions, and click OK.
Add Icon Cache Size to Folder Options/View (Line 166)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Shell32 Icons: %SystemRoot%\System32\shell32.dll (IT Library)
18 Networked
computers

0 Unassigned file types

36 Start menu
folder

54 Document to
document

1
19
37
55
DocumentSmall PrintersDocuments
folder folder folder to
and
folder
window
2 20 38 56
Wi Sm Fo Pen
ndoope nts wri
w n fol tin
fol der g a
der
fol
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lab
pap
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3 Closed folder

21 Gears

39 Windows flag

57 Comp, gears, open
folder

4
22 40 CD 58
Open Find(music)Configuration
folderfile
file
5 5 1/4-inch disk

23 Help
24 Window hourglass cursor

41 Green tree
42 Multiple
documents

7 Removable drive

25 Monitor

43 Find file

8 Hard drive

26 External
removable disk

44 Find on
networked comp

6 3 1/2-inch disk

59 Text file
60 Window with
gears
61 Gears image on
paper
62 Font file

9
27
45
63
NetworkMonitorMonitor TrueType
drive
on
font file
computer
case
10 Network drive
(disconn)

28 Shared folder

46 Control Panel folder

11 CD-ROM drive

29 Shortcut arrow

47 Printers folder

12 RAM chip
13 Globe
14 Network cable
connection
15 Network computer
16 Printer
17 Networked
computers

30 Larger shortcut
48 Printer image on
arrow
paper pad
31 Empty Recycle Bin 49 Network printer
50 Print to file (3 1/2-in
32 Full Recycle Bin
disk)
33 Dial-Up Networking 51 Alternate full
folder
Recycle Bin
52 Alternate full
34 Desktop
Recycle Bin
53 Alternate full
35 Control Panel folder
Recycle Bin

64 Window - hourglass
cursor
65 Are you sure...delete
files?
66 Tape backup
67 CD in drive
68 Defrag
69 Printer
70 Network printer
71 Print to file

SFC - System File Checker - (SFC /Scannow)
/SCANNOW
Scans all protected system files immediately.
/SCANONCE
Scans all protected system files at the next boot.
/SCANBOOT
Scans all protected system files at every boot.
/REVERT
Windows XP: Return to default settings.
Tip: SFC sets the following registry value:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows
NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon\SFCScan
Tip: SFC Creates a log - Start/Run/Msinfo32/Tools/File Signature Verification Ulitity
Shortcut to....- Remove the 'Shortcut to...' Prefix on Shortcuts
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
Per User
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer]
Per System
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer]
Create a new BINARY value name 'link', modify the existing value, to equal '00 00 00 00' to have
the Shortcut text disabled (00 00 00 00 = No Shortcut Text). Restart Windows before creating any
new shortcuts.

Note: This restriction can be used either on a user by user basis by adding it to
HKEY_CURRENT_USER or on a computer wide basis by adding it to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE.
Short Cuts - Add Shortcuts To Start Menu
When you click Start to display Windows XP's new Start menu, you'll see a list of six mostfrequently-used programs on the left side of the menu (below Internet and Email). Want to
squeeze a couple more in there?
Right click the Start button (or a blank area of the Start menu) and select Properties. On the Start
Menu tab, click the Customize button next to Start Menu. Under Programs, use the up and down
arrows to adjust the number of programs in the list--the max is 30, although you'll only be able to
see up to eight with the default large icon size--then click OK twice.
Short Cuts - Broken (Reference)
Have You seen those annoying searches for broken shortcuts/links?
Well there is are couple of ways to solve this problem. If You are comfortable with Registry
manipulation, Open registry editor by going to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer.
Add a new key by the name "NoResolveTrack" (without quotes) and sets its value to 1.
This can be achieved by group policy editor as well. Open group policy editor by opening
START-RUN and entering gpedit.msc. Navigate to User
Configuration\AdministrativeTemplates\Start Menu and Taskbar group policy and selecting "Do
not use the tracking-based method when resolving shell shortcuts".
Short Cut - Links Not Working
EXE Fix for Windows XP - Line 12 (Restores EXE association)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Restore lnk association: (Line 12) Link File Fix for Windows XP
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the Regedits: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting
Edit.
Show Desktop Icon is Missing
Copy and paste the five lines below into Notepad.
[Shell]
Command=2
IconFile=explorer.exe,3
[Taskbar]
Command=ToggleDesktop

Then save it as Show Desktop.scf and drag it to your quick launch bar.
Restore/Add Show Desktop to Quick Launch (Line 61)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
How to Re-create the Show Desktop Icon on Quick Launch Toolbar
Show Hidden Files and Folders is Missing from Folder Options
Go to: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanc
ed\Folder\Hidden.
Modify the string value "Type" and enter "group" as value data. After the edit is complete hit F5
to refresh.
Shutdown
Power the Computer Off or Reboot After Shutdown
This edit controls whether Windows should automatically power down or reboot your computer
once it has finished the shutdown process.
Power Off or Reboot After Shutdown (Line 76)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
This edit automatically ends tasks and timeouts that prevent programs from shutting down and
clears the Paging File on Exit.
Auto End Tasks and Wait to Kill Timeout for Shutdown (Line 76)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
This edit allows you to configure Windows so that you receive verbose startup, shutdown, logon,
and logoff status messages. This may be helpful to in troubleshooting slow startup, shutdown,
logon, or logoff behavior.
Startup/Shutdown/Logon/Logoff Status Messages (Line 69)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
View Log Events by Code or List or Clear (Line 126)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Windows XP Restarts Unexpectedly or Restarts When You Shut Down
the Computer http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;Q320299
Windows XP Restarts When You Try to Shut Down Your Computer
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;Q311806
See if anything listed here helps/applies:
Windows XP Boot Problems & Edits
Windows XP Shutdown & Restart Troubleshooter

Computer Does Not Shut Down Properly if Selective Suspend Is Enabled
Gizmo
Shutdown Command - Disable
Start/Run/GPEDIT.MSC
Computer Configurations/Windows Settings/Security Settings/Local Policies/User Rights
Assignment/Shut Down the System/Users/Remove.
There may be certain machines that you do not want to be shut down; for instance, a workgroup
print server, or a machine in
a kiosk. With this Registry edit, you can take away that option: Start/Run/Regedit
Hive: HKEY_CURRENT_USER
Key: \Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Name: NoClose
Data Type: REG_DWORD
Value: 1
Shutdown Shortcuts
Shutdown.exe for Windows XP
Copy the line below to Notepad: Name it and save with a JS extension.
(new ActiveXObject("Shell.Application")).ShutdownWindows();
Shutdown Tracker
The Shutdown Event Tracker provides a simple and standard mechanism you can use to
consistently document the reasons for shutting down or restarting your computer. The information
provided is recorded in the system log in Event Viewer. Download from here or set it manually
by:
Going to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Reliability
Create a new DWORD value or modify the existing value named "ShutdownReasonUI" and set it
to "1" to enable shutdown event tracking. When enabled an additional drop-down option box will
be displayed with various planned and unplanned shutdown reasons. Restart Windows for the
change to take effect.
Shutdown Troubleshooters
Windows XP Boot Problems & Edits
Windows XP Shutdown & Restart Troubleshooter
Windows XP Stops Responding (Hangs) During Windows Shutdown While Saving Your Settings
SlideShow Timing - Change

Increase SlideShow Timeout to 10 Seconds (Row 81)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
The value of the number is represented in milliseconds between image changes:
1000 = 1 second, 5000 = 5 seconds, 10000=10 seconds, etc. To modify my script change the time
accordingly.
In order to change the slideshow timing, open regedit and go to the following key.
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\ShellImageVi
ew]
Create a DWORD named "Timeout", with the value the number of millseconds between image
changes (1000 (Dec) = 1 second, 5000 = 5 seconds)
Note that the time of actually changing the image is not included, so 1000 = 1 second + time to
decode the image.
Slingo2.Exe
Slingo2.exe May Cause an Error Message
Snap-in Creation Failed when trying to open gpedit.msc (Pete H)
If you receive the "Snap-in creation failed" message when starting GPEDIT.MSC or a "Snap-in
could not initialize" message: For Pro
Go to Start/Run/Msconfig/Expand File
File to Restore: framedyn.dl_
Restore From: i386 folder on your XP CD
Save File In: C:\Windows\System32
Software
Software News
Software Compatibility Site for Windows XP
The IT Resource Directory of Software Related Sites
Sort Order - Incorrect
Files and folders whose name contains 10 or more consecutive digits are not sorted correctly in
Windows Explorer. For example, assume that you have folders with these names:
1111111111
2222222222
3333333333
4444444444
5555555555

In Windows Explorer, these folder names are sorted as:

2222222222
3333333333
4444444444
1111111111
5555555555

Change the Sort Order Back to W2K Style (Line 107)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Sort Order - Reversed A-Z is Z-A
This behavior can occur if the sort order in Windows Explorer is changed from the default order.
Right-click Start, click Explore, and then click drive C. On the View menu, click Details.
Click the Name column to sort items by name, press and hold down the CTRL key, and then quit
Windows Explorer by clicking Close in the upper-right corner of the screen. Release the CTRL
key. Restart your computer.
Note: You must perform these steps exactly as they are listed. For example, do not quit Windows
Explorer by clicking Exit
on the File menu.
Sort Start Menu and Favorites in Alphabetical Order
Start/Run/Regedit HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MenuOrder]
To sort the Favorites menu hightlight the "Favorites" sub-key and delete it. To sort the Start
Menu hightlight the "Start Menu" sub-key and delete it. Changes will take effect after you restart
Windows and Internet Explorer.
Sort Start Menu Programs
To sort the Programs menu, the Documents menu, or the Favorites menu, right-click any item on
the menu, and then click Sort by Name.
To use your keyboard to sort the menu items by name: Use the arrow keys to select the item on
the menu that you want to sort. Press SHIFT+F10 to view the shortcut menu. Use either the
DOWN ARROW key or the UP ARROW key to click Sort By Name, and then press ENTER.
Start Menu and Favorites Menu Not Listed in Alphabetical Order
Sound
Startup Sounds are missing:
TweakUI/General/Beep on errors (verify that the box is checked).
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/downloads/powertoys.asp
System Sounds are missing:
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key: HKEY_USERS. If it doesn't have a Data entry
in the right pane that reads: (value not set), double click (Default) and delete it. If it does, check
your HKEY_USERS\S-1-5-21 keys for the same.

Restore System Default Sounds (Line 6)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
This edit corrects many Sound issues:
Fix the Ding.wav File (Line 6)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Sound Troubleshooters
Resources for Troubleshooting Sound Problems in Windows XP
List of Sound and Gameport Drivers in Windows XP
Troubleshooting Games and Multimedia in Windows XP
Startup Sound Plays Irregularly After Upgrade to Windows XP
USB Speakers Make a "Pop" Sound When You Play Audio
Troubleshooting Playback in Windows Media Player for Windows XP
Sound Blaster Live - Speaker Problem Fix
1) Locate the file called ctsurmix.exe in your Creative SoundBlaster folder.
2) Right click it and select properties and then compatibility.
3) Select win2000 compatible mode and it should work again.
Source Path
Copy the contents of the I386 folder from your XP CD to your hard drive. Then go to
Start/Run/Regedit. Go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion
In the right pane, change SourcePath to reflect your settings. NOTE: Do not include I386 in the
path.
SP1 for Windows XP (more information under SP1 - Troubleshooting and Information)
How to Obtain the Latest Windows XP Service Pack
Order the Windows XP Service Pack 1 CD
Release Notes for Windows XP Service Pack 1
Service Pack 1 Changes to Product Activation
Categorized List of Fixes in Windows XP Service Pack 1 (SP1)
SP1 - "Access is Denied" at the end of the XP Service Pack 1 setup.
If the installation logs points to the following key :
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\TypeLib\{5B9169C0-DB65-42AA-A38A-0726846AAEB3}
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:

HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\WindowsUpdate \Auto Update\ResetAU
Make sure Administrators group and System account have access to that registry key and all keys
under it.
For an NTFS drive: Check the permissions on this folder:
c:\1adb29f45d19253874d9e26de0e056cb\update
Other options:
Check the svcpack.log file. You may have to locate tools on the web like Filemon to monitor files
and Regmon to monitor the registry to track down what is causing the issue. Usually this error
occurs when a file or a reg key has the permissions changed so it cannot be accessed properly. It
could be a number of different files or registry entries so there isn't any one easy answer.
Using the two tools listed above you can track down when the files and registry entries are
accessed by the service
pack install so that when the error occurs you can see what is being touched and access is then
being denied. After
you locate the file or registry entry you need to change the permissions so the service pack can
complete.
Darrell Gorter [MS]
Microsoft Beta Support Team
SP1 - Add or Remove Error after Installing SP1 ("Parser Message: Value creation failed" at
line 472" error)
If you are using Style XP: Right click the Desktop/Properties/Desktop/choose Windows XP and
try again.
Style XP also has an update available for SP1
If you have renamed the uxtheme.dll (patch) you could try running SFC /Scannow to restore the
original MS version. Or
check in the root directory for "UxTheme.dll.tqtbak" and rename it to UxTheme.dll and replace
the copy in: "C:\windows\system32" with the new renamed copy. The original MS Version 6.0.2800.1045 (1.98 kb)
The patch can be downloaded here: http://www.tgtsoft.com/downloads/uxthemepatcher.zip
Another workaround posted by: MVP Mark Salloway
To get rid of this error you can switch back to a Microsoft Theme or go to
/WINDOWS/Resources/Themes/<Name of theme in use> and rename the shell folder to the name
of the visual style shown in the appearance tab. If you have a theme with multiple variations you
must make this change for each subfolder containing a differing styleshell.dll file.
SP1 - AutoDial is Disabled or You Can't Add a Dialup Connection after installing SP1
This is a very noted problem for users after installing SP1. I have some suggestions, however
none of them are the well needed fix. We are still waiting for the proper workaround from MS.

Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\RasMan\PPP\EAP
Delete the subkeys listed except 13 and 4.
Go to Start/Administrative Tools/Services. Set these three to "Automatic":
Remote Access Connection Manager, Remote Access Auto Connection Manager,Telephony.
Explained more in detail:
To force automatic dialing when a program requires a TCP/IP connection: Go to
Start/Administrative Tools/Services. Set these three to "Automatic": Remote Access Connection
Manager, Remote Access Auto Connection Manager, Telephony.
Now you can even set "Never dial a connection" in Internet options, the dial out process is
independent to this
option. You will notice that the interface for dialing out is different than the standard IE interface.
For DSL: Disable TCP/IP for the DSL network card, since it only serves as a virtual modem for
the DSL connection. If you have a LAN connected to your PC be careful not to deactivate TCP/IP
for the local area network: If you have DSL and LAN you should have two network cards in your
PC, one is for the DSL, the other for the LAN, so make sure you deactivate TCP/IP for the right
card (the DSL card, for example "LAN Connection 1" or "LAN connection 2").
and follow the instructions.
New Connection Wizard is Greyed Out (Two Methods)
Check the rasapi32.dll file.
The "rasapi32.dll" file is located in the "c:\windows\system32" folder by default. If this file is also
located in the "c:\windows" folder and this file is an old version, similar issues will occur. Check
if "rasapi32.dll" file is only located in the "c:\windows\system32" folder. If not, rename other
"rasapi32.dll" files to the "rasapi32.old" files. Reboot the computer
and check if this issue still occurs. If this issue still occurs, try the following method to overwrite
the current "rasapi32.dll" file:
1. Insert into the Windows XP CD (I assume that the drive letter of CD-ROM is E).
2. Click the Start Menu and choose the "Run…" menu. Input the command:
expand e:\i386\rasapi32.dl_ c:\windows\system32\rasapi32.dll
3. Restart the computer and check if this issue still occurs.
Method 2:=========
1. From Start, go to Run, type Regedit in the Open box, and then press Enter.
2. Make a backup copy of the following registry key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Telephony
3. Delete the following value:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Telephony\Cards\Nexxt
ID
4. Quit and then restart the Make a Connection Wizard. All of the network connection options
should now be available.

Dial-up Modem or PPPoE Option in New Connection Wizard Is Unavailable
You Cannot Create a Network Connection After You Restore Windows XP
SP1 - Before Installing - Alex Nichol MVP
Disable all anti-virus and firewall etc in their own settings. If you have Style XP to gives different
desktop styles, or other tweaking software that patches the core system files or assumes specific
versions (eg for a different splash screen) remove it first.
If you ever installed XP-Antispy, it disables a dll XSP1 needs, so just in case, Start - Run and run
regsvr32 licdll.dll
regsvr32 regwiz.dll
Start - Run Msconfig.exe. Uncheck the Load Startup items; and in Services page check 'hide
Microsoft services' and
uncheck those lines left. (Restore the settings once SP1 is installed of course)
OK, and reboot to a clean machine from which to run the SP1 setup. All this should not be
necessary, but if there has been difficulty is worth the trouble.
SP1 - Bootable CD
How to create a bootable CD for XP with SP1
Microsoft added the ability to Slipstream a Service Pack to Windows XP. It not only has the
advantage that when you
reinstall your OS, you'll don't have to apply the Service Pack later, also if you update any
Windows component later, you'll
be sure that you get the correct installation files if Windows needs any. Slipstream Windows XP
Service Pack 1
You can also go here and follow instructions and make a new XP CD and have this SP/1
integrated into it. This way if you ever have to do a clean install of XP, the Service Pack will also
be installed for you during the install.
SP1 - "For Testing Purposes Only" on the Desktop
Automated edit: Click here. Manual Edit:
How to remove: Go to Start/Run/Regedit and Remove the following keys:
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\SystemCertificates\CA\Certificates\
FEE449EE0E3965A5246F000E87FDE2A065FD89D4]
and
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\SystemCertificates\ROOT\Certificates\
2BD63D28D7BCD0E251195AEB519243C13142EBC3]
Or...
Go to Start/Run/certmgr.msc. Trusted Root Certification Authority/Certificates. If MS Test Root
Authority is listed, delete it.

SP1 - Internet Explorer (Can't view websites that use JavaScript) by Weston Wheat
Problem: After installing ServicePack1(SP1) for Win XP pro and Explorer 6.0 SP1, the browser
with not open web pages that were link by a JavaScript. A good example was www.tvguide.com
go to the listing web and try to open the information window for a show. The child window will
not open and the browser would return a error icon in the bottom bar.
After playing with the security settings and even try to reinstalling Microsoft Java Virtual
Machine for Win XP, still the browser still would not respond to JavaScript links.
The Fix: Out of desperation, I un-installed the SP1 for Win XP Pro by going to the Control Panel,
Add/Remove programs window. And selected Service Pack 1 for XP to be un-installed. Followed
the on screens instructions and rebooted the computer with ask to.
Still, however the browser would not respond to JavaScript links. So again, out of desperation I
un-installed Explorer 6.0 by going to the Control Panel, Add/Remove programs window, Click on
Add/Remove Windows Components and de-selected Explorer. Click next and followed the on
screen instructions until finished. The Explorer icon was still there on the desk-top after running
the un-install for Explorer.
So I rebooted the computer and upon reboot the icon was missing. Now, I wanted to re-install Win
XP SP1 for all the security updates, I was considering running without the service pack, but
change my mind when I saw how many security issues there were to install without the service
pack. I ran the downloadable executable file version of the service pack (130 megs file size).
Followed the on screen instructions. Note: Always use the backup old files option. And rebooted
when I was ask to do so. Next, came the re-install of Explorer 6.0 . I went to the Control Panel,
Add/Remove programs window, click on Add/Remove Windows Components and selected
Explorer. Clicked next and followed the on screen instructions. Rebooted at the end of the
process.
When the computer come up, I opened Explorer and check the reversion level and it was at SP1. I
know, weird!, but I decided to test the browser and it worked on the www.tvguide.com page. All
was then well. My browser now works great and it does seem a little faster.
Conclusion: I think by running the executable file version of the service pack to install the SP1
for Win XP Pro and not the express method as I had the first time when the problem began, it
replaced the problem dll's/files. Then by installing Explorer on top of XP Pro SP1, the browser
had a good footing.
The short of it is: Un-installed XP SP1. Un-installed MS Explorer 6.0. Then re-installed XP SP1
and finally re-installed MS Explorer 6.0. I hope this helps someone. Weston Wheat
SP1 - Invalid Key
Error Message: The Product Key Used to Install Windows Is Invalid
If it is a legitimate key, contact Microsoft here.
If it is pirated, you need to contact the seller and Microsoft. Also you have 2 options:
1. Perform a Clean Install with the OS of your choice deleting ALL data.

2. Purchase Windows XP Pro (Home will not work) and perform a Repair Installation using the
new valid key:
Or Contact the Microsoft Customer Service (in the US or Canada call 800-426-9400 or Visit here.
SP1 - Outlook Express (Can't Switch Identities)
Switching Between Dual Identities and more has been corrected: Cumulative Update for Outlook
Express 6.0 SP1
This update contains fixes and enhancements to Outlook Express 6.0 SP1 as well as eliminates all
previously addressed security vulnerabilities affecting Outlook Express 6.0 SP1. Download here.
OLEXP: An Overview of the Cumulative Update for Outlook Express 6.0 SP-1
There are currently two workarounds and one option if you haven't installed the Cumulative
Update:
Click on File/Identities/Manage Identities and remove the checkmark in "Use this identity when
starting a program".
Another option:
Before changing identity, Press F1. The Outlook Express "Help" window will open (leave it
running in the background).
Option: Put a shortcut to msoe.chm in the Startup folder and leave the default ID active.
You Cannot Switch Identities in Outlook Express After You Install Windows XP SP1
SP1 - Outlook Express - Expanded Folders
Some users claim to have lost the option of having Outlook Express open with all of the folders
expanded (or at least
the ones that were expanded when Outlook Express was last closed).
Workaround attempted: Extract these OE files from pre-SP1files from
$NTServicePackUninstall: - msimn.exe and
- msoe.dll. However, XP actually goes and auto-replaces them with the SP1 versions seconds
after the copy.
Workaround solution: Create a folder called \pre-sp1 under \Program Files\Outlook Express, copy
those 2 pre-SP1 files in there, and execute this old version of msimn.exe to get OE running back
the way it was before installing SP1.
SP1 - Recovery Console
When you attempt to log on to Recovery Console in Windows XP by typing the correct password
for the local Administrator account, Recovery Console may display the following error message:
The password is not valid. Please retype the password. Type the Administrator password: This
error message may occur even though you typed the correct password. If you start Windows XP,

successfully log on by using the same password, change
the local administrator's password, and restart the computer to Recovery Console, you receive the
same error message.
Reason: If you have the Recovery Console installed on disk, you have to re-install it using the
SP1 version as it is not up dated by the application of SP1. If you are booting up the PC with the
original non-SP1 CD then you are not using the SP1 version of the Recovery Console and you
will have to create your own slipstreamed SP1 XP CD.
Fix: Recovery Console regedit. Download it from here. Then right click on it and select merge,
then try to get into the Recovery Console.
SP1 - Reinstall SP1
Reinstall SP1 for Windows XP in the following situations:
1. After you perform an in-place upgrade (reinstallation) of Windows XP.
2. After you perform a repair of Windows XP.
3. After you use System Restore to restore your computer to a restore point that was created
before you installed Windows
XP SP1.
4. After you upgrade from Windows XP Home Edition to Windows XP Professional Edition.
NOTE: When you upgrade from Windows XP Home Edition to Windows XP Professional
Edition, Windows XP SP1 may be listed in Add/Remove Programs. However, if you try to remove
Windows XP SP1 by using the Add/Remove Programs tool, you may receive an error message
that states that Windows XP SP1 has already been removed.
When you perform an in-place upgrade of Windows XP, you reinstall Windows to the same folder.
When you do this, files that were installed by SP1 for Windows XP are overwritten by the original
version of the files from the Windows XP CD-ROM. This also occurs when you run a repair or
upgrade from Windows XP Home Edition to Windows XP Professional Edition. For this reason,
you must reinstall the service pack.
How to Perform an In-Place Upgrade (Reinstallation) of Windows XP
How to Obtain the Latest Windows XP Service Pack
SP1 - Removing Archived/Backup Files:
If you selected "yes" and did a backup it should be listed in Add/Remove. If not, check here:
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall
If you no longer wish to uninstall SP1 you can remove those extra files, to do so: Set your folder
options to show hidden files then go to: C:\Windows\$NtServicePackUninstall$ and delete it.
After uninstalling the folder go to Add or Remove, choose uninstall and it will fail and then the
listing will be removed.
SP1 - Service Pack Files
All of the service pack files are copied to a directory on the hard drive at
\Windows\ServicePackFiles. The layout.inf file is modified to reflect this location, which gets

stored in the registry (Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key) at:
HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Setup\ServicePackSourcePath.
Hotfixes do not have this functionality included so may need to be reinstalled when a system
change occurs.
You Do Not Have to Reinstall Windows XP Service Packs After System State Changes
SP1 - "Setup could not verify the integrity of the file Update.inf". Make sure the
Cryptographic service is running on this computer."
Fix: Delete the content of the folder Windows\System32\catroot2.
For others who have had the same error message:
It turns out that the SP1 install failed because of low disc space and it left a massive amount of
root directories set as Read Only. Check the attributes and remove any Read Only settings.
SP1 - Slipstream and Repair (upgrading to SP1 (before), running a slipstreamed repair
(after).
Before running a repair: C:\ServicePackFiles\i386
After running a repair: C:\Windows\Driver Cache\i386
If you perform a slipstreamed repair with a slipstreamed CD, the files are moved to
C:\Windows\Driver Cache\i386. That is were windows stores the drivers so you don't need the CD
and C:\ServicePackFiles\i386 is were SP1 stores the drivers.
Note: Once SP1 is installed, it places the system files of SP1 in a backup folder. If a repair is
initiated, the files modified by SP1 are refreshed from this backup folder while the remaining nonSP1 affected files are refreshed from the WinXP CD.
SP1 - System File Checker
Q. Will running an SFC /Scannow on an XP SP1 machine *keep* all updated system files (found
only on the hard drive and *not* on the XP CD) and leave SP1 intact?
A. The updated files are in the folder Windows\ServicepackFiles. The .inf files that tell SFC
where to get copies from are modified so that for relevant files it goes there first.
One thing you can do (best if you have two CD drives) is to burn that folder complete to CD; then
with go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Setup.
In the right pane, change the value of 'ServicePackSourcePath' accordingly; using the CD drive
letter different from the original CD in 'SourcePath'. Then if files are needed you can have one CD
in each drive.
SP1 - System Restore (Highlights of System Restore fixes included in SP1)
1. Fix for SR not launching due to the framedyn.dll error you all have been reporting.

2. No calendar available in the SR wizard to select restore points due to the the .htc file
association being knocked out in the
registry has been fixed.
3. A fix for SR failing restores. A lot of you were seeing failed restores when restoring to any
restore point. Although some of
it was attributed to SR data store corruption, in most cases it was possibly due to locked file issues
causing the restore
process to fail, especially in scenarios where fast user switching was used. This was a known issue
which is now fixed in in
SP1.
This will hopefully resolve all cases for failed restores and it would be great if all of you running
into this problem could
upgrade to SP1 and provide us feedback on this issue, whether it has resolved the problem for you
or not.
4. Fix for drive table inconsistency on a machine causing SR to not create restore points.
5. Security fixes for SR to keep away those terrible hackers and viruses.
So upgrade to SP1 and provide us with some feedback on your issues with SR and whether they
are now resolved, especially when dealing with failed restores.
Anshul Rawat [MS] - System Restore, Windows XP
SP1 - Thumbnail View
Once you install SP1 for Windows XP, the rendering of thumbnail views for .htm, .html, .xml,
.eml, .nws files are no longer supported. This is to increase security.
SP1 Troubleshooting and Information
Categorized List of Fixes in Windows XP Service Pack 1 (SP1)
You Cannot Use the "Start Windows Using Last Known Good Configuration" Feature to Remove
SP1
Cannot Start Windows XP After Installing Service Pack 1 and Then Performing a System
Recovery Operation
Error Message: The Product Key Used to Install Windows Is Invalid
When to Reinstall Windows XP Service Pack 1
You Do Not Have to Reinstall Windows XP Service Packs After System State Changes
Service Pack 1 Changes to Product Activation
HOW TO: Change the Volume Licensing Product Key on a Windows XP SP1-Based Computer
How to Perform an In-Place Upgrade of Windows XP (Corrects Pirated Install)
SP1 Uninstall
Repairing the Windows XP Installation removes SP1
Configure your computer to start from the CD-ROM drive. For more information about how to do
this, please refer to your computer's documentation or contact your computer manufacturer.

Insert your Windows XP compact disc (CD) into your CD-ROM drive or DVD-ROM drive, and
then restart your computer. (You can also boot with a Windows 98/Me Startup disk with CD
support and run WINNT.EXE in the I386 folder on the CD)
When the "Press any key to boot from CD" message is displayed on your screen, press a key to
start your computer from the Windows XP CD. When you see the following message displayed on
the Welcome to Setup screen, press ENTER:
To setup Windows XP now, press ENTER.
At this point an option to press R to enter the Recovery Console is displayed. Do not select this
option. On the Windows XP Licensing Agreement screen, press F8 to agree to the license
agreement. Make sure that your current installation of Windows XP is selected in the box, and
then press the R key to repair Windows XP. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete
Setup.
SP1 - Uninstalling SP1 and IE SP1 if it isn't listed in Add or Remove
Start > Programs > Accessories > System Tools > System Restore. Select a Restore Point that was
created prior to installing SP1. Then Start > Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk
Cleanup.
SP2
Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) will bring users the latest security updates and innovations
from Microsoft. It will establish stronger security settings that help defend against viruses,
hackers, and worms and will provide unique new security features designed to make it easier for
you to protect your PC.
Get Ready for SP2: Turn On Automatic Updates Today
The best way to ensure you get SP2 when it is released is by turning on the Automatic Updates
feature in Windows XP. Visit the Protect Your PC site to let us turn it on for you or follow these
manual steps—either way you'll get SP2 automatically as Microsoft releases it.
Turning on Automatic Updates today allows your PC to begin downloading important updates
automatically, including the latest version of Windows Update. It also ensures you will receive
future updates, such as SP2.
Release notes for Windows XP Service Pack 2
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;835935
What to Know Before You Download and Install Windows XP Service Pack 2
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/sp2/sp2_whattoknow.mspx#XSLTsection126121120120
Application Compatibility Testing and Mitigation Guide for Windows XP Service Pack 2
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=9300becf-2dee-4772-add9ad0eaf89c4a7&DisplayLang=en
Order Windows XP Service Pack 2 on CD
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/downloads/updates/sp2/cdorder/en_us/default810.mspx

You can download SP2 from here:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=049C9DBE-3B8E-4F30-82459E368D3CDB5A&displaylang=en
Tips on Installing SP2: http://www3.telus.net/dandemar/spackins.htm
How to use the Automatic Recovery feature to recover your computer if the Windows XP Service
Pack 2 Setup program is not completed successfully
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;875355&Product=windowsxpsp2
Temporarily Disabling Delivery of Windows XP Service Pack 2 through Windows Update and
Automatic Updates
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/winxppro/maintain/sp2aumng.mspx
How to manage Internet Explorer add-ons in Windows XP Service Pack 2
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;883256
Manually Configuring Internet Connection Firewall in Windows XP Service Pack 2
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/treeview/default.asp?
url=/technet/columns/cableguy/default.asp
New Networking Features in Microsoft® Windows® XP Service Pack 2
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/treeview/default.asp?
url=/technet/columns/cableguy/cg0104.asp
Changes to Functionality in Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/treeview/default.asp?
url=/technet/prodtechnol/winxppro/maintain/winxpsp2.asp
Windows XP Service Pack 2: A Developer's View
http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/default.asp?url=/library/en-us/dnwxp/html/securityinxpsp2.asp
Windows XP Service Pack 2 - Technical Preview Program
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/winxppro/sp2preview.mspx
What to do after installing Service Pack 2 (SP2)
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;ln;xpsp2installed

Added Issues and Comments:
Slipstreaming Windows XP Service Pack 2 and Create Bootable CD
http://www.windows-help.net/WindowsXP/winxp-sp2-bootcd.html
Cannot install Service Pack 2 - Access denied
http://www.michna.com/kb/WxSP2.htm#Cannot_install_Service_Pack_2
The quickest and most thorough way to solve this problem is a batch file, written by fellow MVP
Torgeir Bakken. Download here.
Computer stops responding when you try to install an update in Windows XP Service Pack 2
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=885894

Boot or shutdown problems after Service Pack 2 installation
http://www.michna.com/kb/WxSP2.htm#Boot_or_shutdown_problems_after_Service_Pack_2_ins
tallation
You receive an "Access is denied" error message when you try to install Windows XP Service
Pack 2
http://www.michna.com/kb/WxSP2.htm#Cannot_install_Service_Pack_2
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;873148&Product=windowsxpsp2
Norton AV needs an update to work with SP2. Here's the link:
http://www.symantec.com/techsupp/enterprise/sp2/compatibility.html
The requested section was not present in the Activation Context
http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/default.asp?url=/library/enus/debug/base/system_error_codes__12000-15999_.asp
When accessing the Windows Update site, you receive the 0x80072EFD error.
http://v5.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/v5consumer/showarticle.aspx?articleid=16&ln=en
When searching for available updates on the Windows Update site, you
receive the 0x8024402C, 0x80240030 or 0x8024502d error.
http://v5.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/v5consumer/showarticle.aspx?articleid=26&ln=en

Cleaning Up after Installing SP2 - MVP Alex Nichol
Installing SP2 leaves a lot of space on hard disk taken up by files you would only ever need if you
were to uninstall it. Once you are sure you are happy with it:
A very big restore point will have been made. Once a new regular size one has been made in the
ordinary way, clean up by going to
Start - All Programs - Accessories - System Tools - Disk Cleanup
and in 'More Options' click the bottom button to remove all but the most recent restore point.
Delete the hidden folder of files that would be restored by an Uninstall: C:\Windows\
$NTServicePackUninstall
Once done, if you try to use the 'Remove' for Service pack 2 in Add/remove programs, that will
fail and offer to remove itself.
Note: To view the hidden folder - Go to: Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/View/Show
Hidden File and Uncheck Hide Protected
Operating System Files.
Note2: Alternatively (for the $NtServicePackUninstall$ folder): Notes by MVP Torgeir
Bakken
If you make a backup of the folder to e.g. a CD, you can put it back if you need to uninstall SP2.
After restoring the backup,
run %windir%\$NtServicePackUninstall$\spuninst\spuninst.exe to start the process.
Note3: If you see %windir%\$NTUninstall* folders which dates back to your SP1 installation,
you can delete those. They are not removed by the
SP2 installation in case you want/need to go back to SP1 (and then be able to uninstall the

hotfixes in case you need to).
The following folders should be safe to delete:
%windir%\$xpsp1hfm$\
%windir%\$NtUninstallQ<some#>$\
%windir%\$NtUninstallKB<some#>$\
Note4: Stop and start System Restore to possibly regain some space (but you will lose your
current Restore points). You also may want to reduce
the amount of disk space System Restore is allowed to occupy.
How to turn on and turn off System Restore in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;310405
More about System Restore here:
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/community/newsgroups/faqsrwxp.mspx
There may also be a large folder C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download depending on how
you did the installation. That can also be deleted.
Check that the installations temporary folder did get properly removed - it will be on the drive
where you downloaded the setup files, so probably
C: and have a long name of random letters. If it is still around, delete it. And burn the downloaded
file to a CD so as to have it if you ever need to reinstall.
There will also be a large folder C:\Windows\ServicePackFiles. Do not delete this - it will be used
in future by Windows File Protection - but on an NTFS
disk you can compress it to save about 200MB of disk space. R-click on it, Properties, click the
Advanced button, and select 'Compress'.
Added info: Can Hotfixes be removed via Add or Remove? MVP Ronnie Vernon
Some of the Hotfixes (Mostly security updates) do not have an uninstall feature, these will not
appear in the Add and Remove list. If a Hotfix does appear
in the Add and Remove list then it can be uninstalled just like any other program.
If you uninstall the Hotfix, you will lose the benefits of that patch. This should only be done if you
can determine that you are experiencing negative effects
from the particular Hotfix.
If you simply do not want them to appear in the Add and Remove list and you are sure that you
will not need the uninstall option, you can remove items
from that list by using a registry tweak.
Automated Edit:
Remove Hotfixes from Add or Remove (Line 193)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual Edit: Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall

Expand this branch and look at the list. The Hotfixes are all listed by a "Q" number that
corresponds to the entry in the Add and Remove list.
Make sure that you back up each Key before deleting it.
Select the key and then select File/Export and include the Q number in the name of the file. Right
click the entries you want to remove and select Delete.
SPCheck.Exe
How to Use the SPCheck Tool in Windows XP
Special Folders
Question: One of my special folders (e.g. My Documents, My Music, My Pictures, Shared
Documents, etc) has lost its name, lost its icon, or has the wrong Task Pane template, how can I
get it back?
Answer: This problem can occur if the hidden desktop.ini file in the special folder is corrupt or
missing. Here are the steps to fix this problem: Illustrated, detailed instructions here:
http://computers.douglasthrift.net/winxpfaq.html#faq3
Speech Recognition Reminder - Disable
Control Panel/Regional and Language Settings/Language Bar/Details/Preferences/Turn off
Advanced Text Services.
Speech Recognition - Troubleshooting
HOW TO: Install and Configure Speech Recognition in Windows XP
HOW TO: Configure and Use Text to Speech in Windows XP
HOW TO: Use Speech Recognition in Windows XP
Speed-Up Share Viewing
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Current
Version\Explorer\RemoteComputer\NameSpace. Delete the key called {D6277990-4C6A-11CF8D87-00AA0060F5BF} and reboot.
Spell Checker - Error Message or Doesn't Function
Start/Run/EXPAND X:\i386\CSAPI3T1.DL_ C:\CSAPI3T1.DLL (Where X is your CD-Rom
drive letter). And then copy it to: Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\Proof. Or
download the file here.
Related Issues, Fixes and Information
An error occurred while the spelling was being checked.
Cannot Spell Check Messages in Outlook Express 5
Spell Checker or Custom Dictionary Errors in Outlook Express

Add full-featured, automatic spell checking to Outlook Express without the need to purchase
Microsoft Office!
http://www.spellchecker.com/personal/. Download here.
Spell Checker for Edit Boxes - http://www.quinion.com/mqa/spell.htm
Splash Screen for Windows XP - Disable
Right click My Computer, Properties, Advanced, Startup and Recovery, Edit. Edit BOOT.INI.
Add "/SOS" right after "/fastdetect" with a space between. The line will look something like this:
multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP Professional" /fastdetect
/SOS. When you're finished. The first part, multi(0)..... may not be the same on your machine.
Upon restarting, the splash screen will be gone. It can be re-enabled by removing the new switch.
Splash Screen for Windows XP - Remove
Right click My Computer, go to Properties, Advanced, Startup and Recovery, click the Edit
button. Add the following to the line that loads XP: /SOS The results should look something
like this:
multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP Professional" /fastdetect
/SOS
Tip: Disable Status Messages - Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System
Right click in the right pane and select New, DWord value. Name the new value
DisableStatusMessages. Double click the new value and set it to 1. Status messages will no
longer show during boot/shutdown/logon/logoff. A value of 2 will give you Verbose status
messages.

Spyware - Removers - Heavily Supported
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SUPERAntiSpyware will remove ALL the Spyware, NOT just the easy ones!
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MalwareBytes Anti-Malware: Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware is considered to be the next

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Ad-Aware SE Personal remains the most popular anti-spyware product for computer users
around the world, with nearly one million downloads every week. Our free anti-spyware version
provides you with advanced protection against spyware that secretly attaches and takes control of
your computer, resulting in aggressive advertising pop-ups, sluggish computer activity, even
identity theft through stolen bank details, passwords, and credit card account numbers. If you
want real-time scanning capabilities, consider upgrading to Ad-Aware SE Plus for real-time
protection against spyware, all the time!
Spybot - Search & Destroy detects and removes spyware, a relatively new kind of threat not yet
covered by common anti-virus applications. Spyware silently tracks your surfing behavior to
create a marketing profile for you that is transmitted without your knowledge to the compilers and
sold to advertising companies. If you see new toolbars in your Internet Explorer that you haven't
intentionally installed, if your browser crashes inexplicably, or if your home page has been
"hijacked" (or changed without your knowledge), your computer is most probably infected with
spyware. Even if you don't see the symptoms, your computer may be infected, because more and
more spyware is emerging. Spybot-S&D is free, so there's no harm giving it a try to see if
something has invaded your computer.
HijackThis: A general homepage hijackers detector and remover. Initially based on the article
Hijacked!, but expanded with a lot of other checks against hijacker tricks. It is continually updated
to detect and remove new hijacks. It does not target specific programs/URLs, just the methods
used by hijackers to force you onto their sites.
SSL
SSL Connection Does Not Work on Windows XP
Standby
Troubleshooting Standby Issues in Windows XP
Computer Does Not Resume When You Press a Key on Your USB Keyboard (Q314293)
To automatically put your computer on standby
1.. Open Power Options in Control Panel.
2.. In Power Schemes, click the down arrow, and then select a power scheme. The time settings
for the power scheme are
displayed in System standby, Turn off monitor, and Turn off hard disks.
3.. To turn off your monitor before your computer goes on standby, select a time in Turn off
monitor.
4.. To turn off your hard disk before your computer goes on standby, select a time in Turn off
hard disks.
Notes
a.. To open Power Options, click Start, click Control Panel, and then double-click Power
Options.
b.. You might want to save your work before putting your computer on standby. While the
computer is on standby, information in computer memory is not saved to your hard disk. If there
is an interruption in power, information in memory is lost.
c.. To create a new power scheme, specify the time settings you want, and then click Save As.
d.. If you're using a portable computer, you can specify one setting for battery power and a

different setting for AC power.
e.. To put your computer on standby, you must have a computer that is set up by the
manufacturer to support this option.
f.. Using Power Options in Control Panel, you can adjust any power management option that
your computer's unique hardware configuration supports. Because these options may vary widely
from computer to computer, the options described may differ from what you see. Power Options
automatically detects what is available on your computer and shows you only
the options that you can control.
To manually put your computer on standby
1.. Open Power Options in Control Panel.
2.. On the Advanced tab, under When I press the power button on my computer, click Standby. If
you are using a portable computer, click Standby under When I close the lid of my portable
computer.
3.. Click OK or Apply, and then turn off the power or close the lid of your portable computer.
Notes
a.. To open Power Options, click Start, click Control Panel, and then double-click Power
Options.
b.. You can also put your computer on standby by clicking Start and then clicking Shut Down. In
the What do you want the computer to do drop-down list, click Stand by.
c.. You might want to save your work before putting your computer on standby. While the
computer is on standby, information in computer memory is not saved on your hard disk. If there
is an interruption in power, information in memory is lost.
d.. To put your computer on standby, you must have a computer that is set up by the
manufacturer to support this option.
e.. Using Power Options in Control Panel, you can adjust any power management option that
your computer's unique hardware configuration supports. Because these options may vary widely
from computer to computer, the options described may differ from what you see. Power Options
automatically detects what is available on your computer and shows you only
the options that you can control.
Start Menu
Add a Website link to Start menu
Policy Settings for the Start Menu in Windows XP
Frequently Used Programs Not Automatically Added to Start Menu
HOW TO: Prevent a Program from Being Displayed in the Most Frequently Used Programs List
in Windows XP
Start Menu - Add Shortcuts To Start Menu
When you click Start to display Windows XP's new Start menu, you'll see a list of six mostfrequently-used programs on the left side of the menu (below Internet and Email). Want to
squeeze a couple more in there?
Right click the Start button (or a blank area of the Start menu) and select Properties. On the Start
Menu tab, click the Customize button next to Start Menu. Under Programs, use the up and down
arrows to adjust the number of programs in the list--the max is 30, although you'll only be able to
see up to eight with the default large icon size--then click OK twice.

Tip: Windows XP can only display up to eight most-often-used programs on the left side of
the new Start menu. If you'd
like to see more at a time (up to 14), decrease the size of the icons displayed there. Right
click the Start button (or
a blank area of the Start menu) and select Properties. On the Start Menu tab, click the
Customize button next to
Start Menu. On the General tab, select Small icons, then click OK twice.
Start Menu - Add/Remove Items On Right Side Of Start Menu
When you open the Windows XP Start menu, you notice a shaded row of options on its right
side--My Documents, My Pictures, My Music, Favorites and so on. See anything there that you
don't need or want? Remove it. While you're at it, you can change certain links (without arrows to
expand them) into pop-out menus, or vice versa.
Right-click the Start button or a blank area of the Start menu and select Properties. On the Start
Menu tab, next to 'Start menu,' click the Customize button. Click the Advanced tab and you'll see
certain items selected under Start menu items. To remove an item from the Start menu, de-select it
or choose its 'Don't display this item' option.
To display a commonly-used item, such as the Control Panel or My Documents folder, as a popout menu, select 'Display as menu' below that item. When you're through making changes, click
OK.
Start Menu - Clean
At the top there are links to the Internet and E-mail programs; these default to the Microsoft
programs. Under those two shortcuts, we find the "Most frequently used" programs list. But when
you start using other programs, you'll notice that Microsoft has given its own an apparent "head
start", as they will be slow to disappear from the list.
It is, however, easy enough to remove a program from this list: just right-click on the program you
want to remove, and from the menu select Remove from This List. When you right-click, you
might also note that Pin to Start menu is an option. When you select that option, the shortcut will
be moved to the top of the Start menu, directly below the E-mail link.
You can also remove a program that was pinned to the Start menu by right-clicking, and choosing
Unpin from Start menu (which will restore it to its position on the lower part of the start menu), or
choosing Remove from This List, which will remove it completely from the Start menu.
Next you will notice a great number of links on the right side of the Start menu such as My
Documents, My Recent Documents, My Pictures and My Music.
Well, I don't know about you, but that's nothing that I need there! Just right-click an empty space
on the Start menu, click Properties, click Customize and select the Advanced tab.
Now you can customize the look & feel of your Start menu in whatever way you want! There are
a number of items (Control Panel, My Computer, My Documents, My Music, and My Pictures)
for which you have these three options:
Display as link
Display as menu

Don't display this item
It is especially useful to have the Control Panel as menu, as this will create faster access to the
individual Control Panel applets. One other option that deserves mention is the Highlight newly
installed programs. This is another annoyance you will want to switch off quickly! Not only will
newly installed programs be listed with a yellowish highlight in the All Programs menu, you will
also receive a pop-up when you open the start menu that tells you New programs installed.
On the General tab (after pressing Customize on the Taskbar and Start Menu properties), you can
also change the Internet & E-mail programs listed on the Start menu. The drop-down boxes
should contain all programs installed on your system.
Also you can change the number of shortcuts listed on the (left side) Start menu, as well as clear
the whole list of programs in one shot. On the Taskbar and Start Menu properties itself, you can
also choose Classic Start menu. Choosing this option will make your start menu look like the
Windows 2000 Start menu.
Start Menu Policy Settings
Start Menu Scrolling - Enable
When there are more items on the Start Menu than can fit on the screen, Windows can either
create a second column of items or it can create a scrolling menu. This tweak controls that
functionality.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced.
Value Name: StartMenuScrollPrograms, Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value), Value Data: "Yes" or
"No". Create a new String value, or modify the existing value, called 'StartMenuScrollPrograms'
and edit the value according to the settings below. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or
log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Note: This can be used either on a user by user basis by adding it to HKEY_CURRENT_USER or
on a computer wide basis by adding it to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE.
Start-Up Files
The Complete List of Startup Locations in Windows
When Windows starts up, it automatically launches a number of programs for you. Some of these
come from the Startup folder. Windows also looks in six other locations for files that should be
launched at startup.
Start-Up Tracker by MVP Doug Knox:
Windows XP Startup Programs Tracker
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_u.htm#xp_util
Startup Folder on the Desktop
Go to Start/Run/Regedit. Navigate to each key. In the right pane, scroll down to Startup and make
sure they read accordingly:

User Shell
%USERPROFILE%\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
Shell
C:\documents and setting\[User Name]\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\User Shell
Folders
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Shell Folders
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\User
Shell Folders
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Shell
Folders
Startup Problems - Troubleshooting with Advanced Startup
If your computer doesn’t start correctly, you can use advanced Startup options to run Windows XP
Professional to troubleshoot your problem. To start your computer by using an advanced Startup
option:
Click Start, click Shut down, click What do you want the computer to do? and then click Restart.
Click OK.
When the list of available operating systems appears, press the F8 key.
On the “Advanced Options” screen, select the advanced Startup option you want, and then press
ENTER.
Before using Advanced Startup, go to Help and Support Center and type “Safe Mode Options” in
the Search box.
Startup Programs - Disable Unnecessary Programs at Startup
How to Modify the List of Programs that Run at Startup
Start/Run/Msconfig/Startup
Start/Run/Regedit. Right Click/Delete unnecessary programs listed here:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
Disable Run Commands Specified in the Registry
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Value Name: DisableLocalMachineRun, DisableLocalMachineRunOnce,
DisableCurrentUserRun, DisableCurrentUserRunOnce
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = enable run, 1 = disable run)
Create a new DWORD value for each of the optional values above depending on which Run
function to stop and set the value to "1" to disable. Restart Windows for change to take effect.

To remove programs that are listed in the Start Menu:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\StartPage Right Pane - Favorites.
Or to ban them: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Explorer\FileAssociation\
Right-click the String Value AddRemoveApps, and select Modify
Add the name of the programs executable at the end of the Value data, make sure that the name is
preceded by a semicolon (;). Exit/Reboot.
Tip: For a detailed list of all installed software: http://www.belarc.com/Download.html
In the Software Versions section you'll see all of your installed software. At the end of each entry
is a clickable asterisk that will take you to the folder the software is installed in.
To Clear Add/Remove:
Removing Invalid Entries in the Add/Remove Programs Tool. Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall
You may have to contact the manufacturer of the program that you want to remove if you need to
clean up the disk and registry entries. The procedure described in this section does not remove all
the files and registry entries used by the program; it removes only the reference in the
Add/Remove Programs tool.
Startup Programs - Without the Startup Folder
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run. Data Type:
REG_SZ. Value: path to program.
Startup Services - Remove/Disable
To disable unneeded startup services for a safer, faster XP, use the "Services" Admin Tool
(Control Panel/Administrative Tools/Services). If you are a single user of a non-networked
machine, you can disable the following items, with no ill effect.
Alerter
Clipbook
Computer Browser
Fast User Switching
Human Interface Access Devices
Indexing Service (Slows the hard drive down)
Messenger
Net Logon (unnecessary unless networked on a Domain)
Netmeeting Remote Desktop Sharing (disabled for extra security)
Remote Desktop Help Session Manager (disabled for extra security)
Remote Procedure Call Locator

Remote Registry (disabled for extra security)
Routing & Remote Access (disabled for extra security)
Server
SSDP Discovery Service ("Universal P'n'P", & leaves TCP Port 5000 wide open)
TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper
Telnet (disabled for extra security)
Universal Plug and Play Device Host
Upload Manager
Windows Time
Wireless Zero Configuration (for wireless networks)
Workstation
Status Bar - Disappear
Windows Explorer/View/Status Bar. Then go to Tools/Folder Options/View/Apply to all folders.
Status Messages - Disable
You can disable the Status messages that appear on the screen when you're booting, logging on,
logging off or shutting down the system (Starting Windows, Loading Personalized Settings, etc.).
Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT. Go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System
Right click in the right pane and select New, DWord value. Name the new value,
DisableStatusMessages. Double click the new value and set it to 1 to disable these messages, 0 to
enable them.
Stop Errors - Troubleshooting
Stop Messages
Troubleshooting Stop Errors in Windows XP
Possible Resolutions to STOP 0x0A, 0x01E, and 0x50 Errors
Troubleshooting "Stop 0x0A" Messages in Windows
How to Troubleshoot a Stop 0xC0000218 Error
General Information on STOP 0x0000000A
How to Debug a Stop 0xC2 or Stop 0x000000C2 Error
Microsoft Debugging Tools
When you use volumes that use the NTFS file system on integrated device electronics (IDE)
drives with caching enabled, you may receive the following error message during startup:
Download the fix here.
Stop 0x000000ED
Unmountable_Boot_Volume
Stop 0x000000ED Error Message When Volume on IDE Drive with Caching Enabled Is Mounted
Storage
1394 Storage Device Does Not Work After You Insert or Remove 1394 Device

Support
Microsoft Product Support Services for Windows XP Professional
Sysinternals
Monitoring, Performance Tools and Utilities
Sysprep.Exe
Event ID 7005 When You Use Sysprep.exe with the -mini Switch
How to Use Sysprep.exe to Automate Windows XP Deployment
Sysprep May Result in "Stop 0x7b (Inaccessible Boot Device)"
Preventing Sysprep from Removing Desktop Icons and Shortcuts
How to Use Cmdlines.txt File During Sysprep.exe Setup Wizard
Sysprep w. Windows Product Activation or Volume License Media
System Preparation Tool and Answer File Usage
Cannot Log On to Recovery Console After Running Sysprep
Tip: Sysprep Resizes PageFile - Add this to the [Unattended] section of your sysprep.inf.
KeepPageFile = 1. The
value of 0 allows sysprep to delete the current pagefile and revert to system default
settings. A value of 1 is
supposed to keep the current pagefile settings and sizes.
System Backup
System Backup for Windows XP
System Beeps - Ding.wav missing
Fix the Ding.wav File (Line 6)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the Regedit: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting
Edit.
System Beeps - Disable
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Sound In the right pane, right click "Beeps", modify,
set the value to no. Exit, reboot.
System Information (Msinfo32)
Description and Uses of the System Information Tool
Go to Start/Run and type in: winmsd
Verify your settings here: Start/Run/Regedit

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Shared Tools\MSInfo
Path value = C:\Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\MSInfo\msinfo32.exe
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\App
Paths\msinfo32.exe
Default value = C:\Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\MSInfo\MSInfo32.exe
Path value = C:\Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\MSInfo
Fix for Help and Support and System Information
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/scripts_desc/fixwinxphelp.htm
Go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: net stop winmgmt. Then delete the System32\wbem\repository
directory. Once done go back to Start/Run/CMD and type in: net start winmgmt.
Error Message: Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) Might Be Corrupted (Unable to
view System Information (MSinfo32) http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;enus;319101
How to Use System Information (MSINFO32) Switches
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;q300887&
If none of the above helps, replace your Boot.ini.
System32 - Windows XP could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt:
\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\CONFIG\SYSTEM
Suggestion: To fix the "windows\system32\config\system file is missing or corrupt" where
XP wont boot, go to
recovery console and type:
cd system32\config
ren system system.old
ren system.alt systemalt.old
copy c:\windows\repair\system
copy c:\windows\repair\regback\system
exit
Cannot Start Windows XP if the System or Software Hive Is Missing or Damaged
How to Recover from a Corrupted Registry
How to Troubleshoot a Stop 0xC0000218 Error
System Folder - Add a Special Folder to My Computer
Add a Folder to My Computer and Desktop (Line 130)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
System32 Folder
System32 Folder Opens When Logging on to Windows

System Performance - Some overall suggestions to increase system performance
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop In the right pane select, "MenuShowDelay".
Right click, modify and set the value to 0. Reboot.
Start, Settings, Control Panel, System, Advanced, Startup and Recovery, System Startup/Display
Recovery...set the timeout to 0.
Right click My Computer Icon/Properties/Advanced/Performance/Visual Effects Tab/Adjust for
Best Performance/Uncheck everything from: Animate Windows when....all the way down.
1: Right Click on My Computer and select properties.
2: Click on the "Advanced" tab
3: See the "Performance" section? Click "Settings"
4: Disable the following:
Fade or slide menus into view
Fade or slide ToolTips into view
Fade out menu items after clicking
Show Shadows under menus
Slide open combo boxes
Slide taskbar buttons
Use a background image for each folder type
Use common tasks in folders
System Processor - View Information
These values contain information about the system processor, including speed, brand and model.
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\HARDWARE\DESCRIPTION\System\
CentralProcessor\0
Value Name: ~MHz, Identifier, VendorIdentifier
System Properties - Support Information
This registry file alters the text that appears in the System Properties property sheet. This is the
text that appears underneath the OemInfo text.
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Hardware\Description\System\CentralProcessor\0]
"VendorIdentifier"="<input>"
"Identifier"="<input>"
There are two files that need to be in C:\Windows\System, OemInfo.ini and OemLogo.bmp.
OemLogo.Bmp works best as a 16 color (but can be higher) bitmap with a maximum size of
approximately 100 high x 160 wide pixels. Use MS Paint to create.
You can modify what is listed under the Manufacturer and the Support section. But I haven't
found a way to make an URL clickable either on the General Tab nor under Support Information.

Also, if a system is not an OEM, there isn't a Support Information tab. To add one, go to Windows
Explorer\Windows\System32. In the right pane scroll down to OEMINFO.INI and open it in
Notepad.
Here is an example to copy and paste into the opened Notepad window, modify as you wish:
[General]
Manufacturer=Kellys XP Korner
Model=http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com
[Support Information]
Line1= For Technical Support and information on frequently
Line2= asked questions, issues and fixes for Windows XP visit:
Line3= Troubleshooting Windows XP
Line4=
Line5= http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp.htm
Line6= http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_abc.htm
Other tips:
To place a link on the Start Menu, download this edit. As an example you can run it to see where it
is placed. To modify the settings open the edit in Notepad and change accordingly.
Add a Website to the Start Menu (Line 52)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Change the Online Support link under the Help Menu in Internet Explorer.
Change Online Support Link under IE/Help (Line 92)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Add a Folder or Link Under the Run Command (Line 180)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
System Restore
Unable to use system restore due to the error: "missing framedyn.dll. Please reinstall the
application to fix this problem".
A temporary fix to address this issue is to make the user copy the framedyn.dll file from
\Windows\System32\WBEM directory to the \Windows\System32 directory. We are currently
working to determine why this is occurring, one possible case is due to windows path corruption.
System Restore Information, Issues and Tweaks
Create System Restore Points
Troubleshooting System Restore in Windows XP
System Restore Tool Displays a Blank Calendar in Windows XP
System Restore "Restore Points" Are Missing or Deleted
Registry Keys and Values for the System Restore Utility
Tip: Restore points are saved in under x:\system volume information\_restore{558C94FD3C7F-4954-A02D-

26679E6D849E}. Each restore point's files are saved in a folder named RPXX where
XX is a two digit number
corresponding to the restore point.
Single Click System Restore Point - VB Script to run unattended Restore Point Creation as a
Scheduled Task. The Restore point will be identified as Automatic Restore Point with the date
and time the script was run. http://www.dougknox.com/xp/scripts_desc/xp_sysrestorepoint.htm
Tip: System Restore Does Not Restore Your Wallpaper or Background
System Restore Tab Missing
Check your settings here: For Pro: Start/Run/gpedit.msc. Computer Configuration,
Administrative Templates, System, System Restore.
System Settings - Edit Hidden System Settings using Group Policy Editor
Windows XP has a great program called Group Policy Editor that allows system administrators to
modify the settings to a great number of windows features. TO start the program up follow the
directions below.
1. Open the start menu and click Run
2. Type gpedit.msc
3. The Group Policy MMC appears
4. Click through the different nodes of the tree to see all the hidden features of Windows XP that
you can edit without
touching the registry.
Examples: Changing IE displays, Clearing the pagefile at shutdown, boot-time defrag settings,
and many many more.
Another tip is to add this to your Administrative Tools by adding the shortcut to gpedit.msc
Startup or Shutdown - No System Sounds
If you are using TweakUI go to the General section and check Beep on Errors.
Stop Errors
Stop Messages
Troubleshooting Stop Errors in Windows XP
"STOP 0x0000008e" Error Message During Windows XP Setup
Possible Resolutions to STOP 0x0A, 0x01E, and 0x50 Errors
Troubleshooting "Stop 0x0A" Messages in Windows
General Information on STOP 0x0000000A
"STOP:0xD1" Error Message When You Start Your Windows XP-Based Computer
Svchost.Exe
Error Message When You Try to Dial a Connection: "Svchost.exe Has Generated Errors and Will
Be Closed by Windows"
System Volume Information - Where is it?

Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/View/Show Hidden File and Uncheck Hide Protected
Operating System Files.

~T~
Taskbar
This application allows you to Repair and Customize the Quick Launch, Taskbar and Notification
Area in Windows XP:
Taskbar Repair Tool Plus!: http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/taskbarplus!.htm
Which includes:

Taskbar
Taskbar is Missing
Lock Taskbar Greyed Out
Minimized Programs Missing
Stuck in Classic View *
Reduce Size of Buttons
Restore to XP Default *
Toolbars Greyed Out or Missing
Remove Specific Toolbars or Remove All *
Remove System Icons from Desktop Toolbar *
Disable Taskbar Context Menus
Remove Taskbar and Start Menu from the Control Panel
Disable Right Click/Properties
Lock Size and Position of the Taskbar
Remove Open, Explore and Find from Start Button Right Click *
Remove Open All, Explore All Users from the Start Button Right Click *
Hide or Show the Taskbar
Repair Taskbar Icon Views
Hide or Show the Start Button
Restore Taskbar to Default Position *
Enable or Disable Taskbar Grouping (Removes the options from Properties)
Repair, Disable or Enable the Task Manager

Notification Area
Hide or Show All Listed Icons
Hide or Show All Inactive Icons
Remove Past Items
Show Missing Icons
Restore/Remove the Clock
Disable Balloon Tips
Remove the Notification Area

Remove Selective Icons (also from Msconfig/Registry) *
Disable Low Disk Space Warning Message and Icon

Quick Launch
Can't Create Toolbar Error Message
Restore Show Desktop Icon
Remove the Quick Launch Area *
Save Quick Launch Sort Order
Auto Add Specific Links to Quick Launch *
Set Quick Launch as Default for any new user added *
NOTE: For a stand alone exe to be run as a startup script, send an email here and choose #8.
When this utility is run as
a "Startup script", it will automatically adjust the system Registry to "turn on" the
Quick Launch bar, by default,
for all newly created user accounts.
Cannot Move or Resize the Taskbar or Any Toolbars on the Taskbar
Taskbar Is Missing When You Log On to Windows
Taskbar - Context Menus - Disable Taskbar Context Menus
Manual edits can be found here: http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm or here:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/taskbarplus!.htm
This setting removes the context menus (right click on the taskbar) for the system tray, including
the Start button, Tab control, and Clock. Open your registry (Start/Run/Regedit) and find the key
below. You may need to create the key if it does not already exist.
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'NoTrayContextMenu' and edit
the value according to the settings below.
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
Value Name: NoTrayContextMenu
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = disabled, 1 = enabled)
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Taskbar - Grouping
Right click the Notification Tray/Properties/Uncheck Group Similar Taskbar Buttons.
Change number of windows that are open before XP will start grouping them on the Taskbar:
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/scripts_desc/xp_taskbargrouping.htm
Decrease Size of Taskbar Buttons (Line 97)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

Restore Taskbar Grouping (Line 218)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Taskbar Grouping by #, Least or Most Used (Line 86)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Add Taskbar Grouping to Customize with All Options (Line 149)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual Editing:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced\Tas
kbarGroupSize and set it to:
0 = Group least used apps first
1 = Group app with most windows first
2 - n = Group apps with this many windows
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced\Tas
kbarGlomming
0 = Don't group
1 = Group
Standard behavior is to group least used apps first.
Taskbar - Hide Clock (Notification Area)
This setting allows you to remove the clock from the system tray on the taskbar. Open your
registry (Start/Run/Regedit) and find the key below. You may need to create the key if it does not
already exist.
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'HideClock' and edit the value
according to the settings below.
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
Value Name: HideClock
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = Show Clock, 1 = Hide Clock)
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Taskbar - Remove the Toolbars on the Taskbar
This restriction is used to remove all the toolbars, including Quick Launch, from the taskbar. It
also restricts the ability to re-enable them. Open your registry (Start/Run/Regedit) and find the
key below. You may need to create the key if it does not already exist.
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'NoToolbarsOnTaskbar' and
edit the value according to the settings below.

[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
Value Name: NoToolbarsOnTaskbar
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = default, 1 = enable restriction)
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Taskbar - Programs Aren't Minimized in the Taskbar
Taskbar Repair Tool Plus!: http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/taskbarplus!.htm
Download this reg file and double click it. Answer yes to the import prompt:
Programs Aren't Minimized in the Taskbar (Line 240)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Taskbar - Remove Notification Tray Items from Taskbar
This setting removes and restricts access to the tray icons normally found next to the clock on the
taskbar. Open your registry and find the key below. You may need to create the key if it does not
already exist.
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'NoTrayItemsDisplay' and edit
the value according to the settings below.
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
Value Name: NoTrayItemsDisplay
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = default, 1 = enable restriction)
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.

Taskbar - Tool Tips Hidden Behind the Task Bar: FIX
Go to Start/All Programs: Hover over any program listed, right click and select Sort by Name.
Repeat once more. All done!
Taskkill - Home
You could try to copy it from a Pro installation is you can, or use the command line utility
PsKill.exe in the free PsTools suite at: http://www.sysinternals.com/
Taskkill - Pro
Start/Run/CMD: taskkill /?
Task Manager

Launching the Task Manager can sometimes be difficult depending on the situation. Some people
didn't know that the Task Manager can actually be launched in at least three different ways to
make it easier to use when you need it the most.
First Method:
Press CTRL + ALT + DELETE and click on the 'Task Manager...
Second Method:
Right click on the Windows Notification area and chose 'Task Manager...
Third Method:
Press CTRL + SHIFT + ESC and the Task Manager will be launched instantly.
*Task Manager Menu Bar and Tabs Are Not Visible in Windows XP
Description of What the Available Bytes in Task Manager Represents
Task Manager - Control/Alt/Delete - Doesn't work
Lift Restrictions - TM, Regedit and CMD (Line 275)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Enable the Task Manager (Line 51)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Check your settings here: For Pro
Start/Run/gpedit.msc. User Configuration/Administrative Templates/System/Crtl+Alt+Del
Options. In the right pane double click Remove Task Manager and enable it.
Also, if you have disabled the Alerter Service, CAD will be disabled. If neither of these are the
case and the Task Manager only opens for a few seconds, then closes:
This behavior can be caused by a virus. One of three:
http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/w32.spybot.worm.html
http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/[email protected]
http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/[email protected]
If this is not the case: Check your settings here
Taskmgr.exe should be listed in the %SystemRoot%\system32 directory. If you cannot find the
file, you can extract it from the Windows XP CD. To do so, you can perform the following steps:
a. Insert your Windows XP CD into your CD-ROM.
b. Click Start, Run, type cmd and press Enter.
c. At the Command Prompt mode, type the following command:
For example, if the drive letter of your CD-ROM is F, you can type the following commands:
F:
cd \i386
expand taskmgr.ex_ %SystemRoot%\SYSTEM32\taskmgr.exe

If it is a policy setting, run this edit:
Enable the Task Manager (Line 113)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Restore Task Manager, Msconfig and Regedit:
This worm disables NAV, Msconfig, Regedit and Task Manager:
http://www.bitdefender.com/bd/site/virusinfo.php?menu_id=1&v_id=114
Rename regedit.exe to regedit.com then: Download then Merge the edit on line 251 then delete
all the files mentioned in the above link. http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the Regedit: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting
Edit.
Task Scheduler - A scheduled task can be run without passwords
For Pro: Start/Control Panel/Administrative Tools/Local Security Policy/Local Policies/Security
options.
In the right hand pane (third down). Accounts: Limit local account use of blank passwords to
console logon only. This is enabled by default, disable it.
For Home: Manual Edit and Automated Edit
For Home: Run Scheduled Task without a Password (Line 67)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Backup your registry before modifying. Locate the following registry key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Lsa
Value name: limitblankpassworduse
Type: REG_DWORD
Data: 0 (disabled) 1 (enabled)
It is enabled by default. Disable it and scheduled tasks should run.
HOW TO: Modify Scheduled Tasks in Windows XP
Task Scheduler Does Not Run Tasks When "Run As" User Account Has No Password
Task Scheduler - Auto Run
Getting tasks to run when no one is logged on. If you follow these steps, the shedlgu.txt file will
be replaced without any information other than system start-up information upon the first boot.
Go to Start/Run/Msconfig. Click Selective Startup and uncheck Load System Services, click ok.
Reboot.
Upon reboot, click OK to the first Window that indicates that you have selected "Selective

Startup". When the System Configuration Utility reappears, Check the Normal
Startup Box.
Then go to Start/Search and type in: schedlgu.txt. When it appears, right click on the file and
delete it. Reboot.
You will now have a new Task Scheduler Log File. It can be checked by going to Start/Search and
typing in: schedlgu.txt. Appearing will be your new Task Scheduler Log.
Running Scheduled Tasks without a password:
For Pro: Start/Control Panel/Administrative Tools/Local Security Policy/Local Policies/Security
options. In the right hand pane (third down).
Accounts: Limit local account use of blank passwords to console logon only. This is enabled by
default, disable it.
For Home: Run Scheduled Task without a Password (Line 68)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Troubleshooting the Task Scheduler
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_t.htm#ts
To disable this service, follow these steps:
1. Open Control Panel
2. Double-click Administrative Tools
3. Double-click Services
4. Locate "HID Input Service" and double-click on it
5. Select "Disabled" under the "Startup type" pulldown menu
6. Hit OK and reboot
Added Info:
How to Enable Automatic Logon in Windows
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;315231
HOW TO: Schedule Tasks in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q308569
HOW TO: Modify Scheduled Tasks in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q308671
Tasks doesn't work on XP Home
Log in as an administrator, Open Control Panel - Folder Options, click the View tab and select
Show hidden files and folders.
Go to C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application
Data\Microsoft\Crypto\RSA\S-1-5-18 and delete the files in there.
Scheduled Tasks will recreate the files needed.

Note: This folder is hidden by default. Go to Start/Run and type in: control folders. View: Show
hidden files and folders.
Tasks issues 0x80090016 or 0x8009000f error?
Use Computer Management/Services and Application/Services to configure Protected Storage to
start Automatically and to Start it.
NOTE: If the Cryptography subsystem has become corrupt, delete the following key and restart
your computer:
HKEY_USERS\.Default\Software\Microsoft\Cryptography\Providers\Type 001
How to Un-schedule Tasks:
See chkntfs. Type chkntfs /? in a command prompt or type chkntfs in help.
TCP/IP - Can't Uninstall
When viewing the list of components for a network interface, you may notice that the Uninstall
button is disabled when Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) is selected. In Windows XP, the TCP/IP stack
is considered a core component of the operating system; therefore, it is not possible to uninstall
TCP/IP in Windows XP. In extreme cases, reinstalling the Internet Protocol stack may be the most
appropriate solution. With the NetShell utility, you can now reset the TCP/IP stack back to a
pristine state, to the same state as when the operating system was installed.
Tip: RWIN: Where is this located to change it manually
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Tcpip\Parameters
In 2K, it is called "TcpWindowSize" and is a DWORD, instead of a String Value. Create a new
one, but choose DWORD instead of String Value. Value may be entered in decimal or hex. Note:
DRTCP will set all of these very easily.
Description of Windows TCP Features
Temporary Internet Files (TIF)
Internet Explorer (IE) can enter a state where it almost immediately hangs and starts to use 100
percent of CPU time. In particular, trying to delete Temporary Internet files via Tools, Internet
Options triggers this behavior. Also, all attempts to delete files or folders from %systemdrive
%\Documents and Settings\%username%\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files (or wherever
the Temporary Internet files folder is located) causes Windows Explorer to hang. This behavior
occurs because the Temporary Internet files database is corrupt.
The Temporary Internet files aren't really files but entries in %systemdrive%\Documents and
Settings\%username%\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\Content.IE5\index.dat. Deleting
that file solves the problem.
Exit IE and Windows Explorer (iexplore.exe and explorer.exe, respectively, in Task Manager).
Use the following command from a command prompt to delete the file:

Type in cd.. enter, cd.. enter then paste this line:
del "%userprofile%\local settings\temporary internet files\content.ie5\
Empty Temp Folders v2.8.3
http://www.danish-shareware.dk/soft/emptemp/index.html
Text - Data (Extracting text data from a PDF file)
To do this open the PDF file with Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0, a free program available for
download from Adobe at http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep.html
Select the text tool, which looks like a "T" on the toolbar and drag it over the text in the PDF
document and then use the copy command from the Edit menu. Pop into the program you want to
put the text into and go to its "Edit" menu and select "Paste".
Text to Speech
HOW TO: Configure and Use Text to Speech in Windows XP
HOW TO: Use Speech Recognition in Windows XP
HOW TO: Install and Configure Speech Recognition in Windows XP
Themes (Won't Load or only Windows Classic is listed)
Go to Start/Administrative Tools/Services/Themes. Set to Automatic. Also check your settings
here:
Start/Administrative Tools/Services/Terminal Services/Log On. At the bottom ensure that
Hardware Profile Original Configuration is Enabled.
If the above doesn't apply/nor help: Only windows Classic is listed under Appearance:
1. Right click on the desktop and choose Properties.
2. On the Theme tab, choose the Windows XP.
3. If this option is missing, you may choose Browse... to
C:\Windows\Resources\Themes\Luna.theme
4. The Luna.theme is the theme of the Windows XP.
If Luna.theme is missing: Go to Start/Run/Msconfig/Expand Files: Luna.MS_ and Luna.TH_
Restore Luna Theme (Line 187)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Restore Themes Functionality (Line 187)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Windows/Buttons Greyed Out under Appearance and/or Windows XP Style Changes to Windows
Classic or (Line 214) http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm.
Themes - Customize
WinCustomize - The Definitive Desktop Web Site (Daily Shots/Library)

Windows Customization 2002 More and more programs have become "Skinnable" in themselves
and the latest version of Windows (Windows XP) allows users to choose between a "Classic"
Windows look and a new "Windows XP" style of look. Microsoft introduced a new terminology
to describe skins that are applied across the operating system - visual styles.
Windows XP: Adding more visual themes When Windows XP was released, users immediately
could see that something was different. It came with an updated user interface that looked more
polished. The new look came with a new term: A visual style. A visual style represents the
customization of the main parts of the Windows graphical user interface (GUI). Windows XP
came with 1 called "Windows XP style".
HOW TO: Configure Desktop Themes in Windows XP
Personalize Your Computer - Working with Themes - MS
Downloadable XP Themes
Change Splash Screen for WinXP
How to Make Your Own Themes
How to Apply Your Style XP Themes!
How to Create your own Login Screens
Hacking the Start Button in XP
Creating Windows XP Icons
HOW TO: Distribute a Custom Desktop Theme to Users
User Picture Logos (Icons)
How to install Visual Styles in Windows XP
Themes - Hide the Themes Settings Page
This option hides the Themes tag which prevents the user from selecting an alternate theme.
Themes normally include a background plus sounds, icons and other elements. Go to
Start/Run/Regedit
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'NoThemesTab' and edit the
value according to the settings below.
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer]
Value Name: NoThemesTab
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = default, 1 = enable restriction)
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Themes - Restrict Desktop Theme Controls
These restrictions control access to the desktop theme settings including the Windows styles,
buttons, schemes and fonts.
Go to Start/Run/Regedit: For each required restriction create a new DWORD value from the list
below and set the value to "1" to enable it.
NoVisualStyleChoice - Disable the "Windows and buttons" style control
NoColorChoice - Disable the "Color scheme" control

NoSizeChoice - Disable the "Font size" control
To specify the default style create a new string value called "SetVisualStyle" and set it to the full
path and filename of the required .msstyles file. Changes should take effect immediately.
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System]
Value Name: NoColorChoice, NoSizeChoice, NoVisualStyleChoice, SetVisualStyle
"The Name Specified Is Not Recognized..."
From Command Prompt: "The Name Specified Is Not Recognized..."
Themes - Windows 98 Plus!
How to use Windows 98 Themes and Screensavers in XP:
1. Place the Plus! folder in Program Files.
2. Copy the Screensavers (along with dll's) to the System32 folder.
3. Extract WL32DLL.DLL and WILDLB32.DLL from win98_65.cab and place in the System32
folder.
All done.
*Note - Do not rename using "ss..."
This Page Cannot Be Displayed - Error Message
For most users this works:
Lan Settings - Proxy Server - Disable (Line 253)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual: IE/Tools/Internet Options/Connections/Lan Settings. Uncheck Use a proxy server.....
Rename your hosts file: Go to: Windows\System32\DRIVERS\etc.
Repair Loss of Internet Access/Certain Web Sites (155)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Page Cannot be Found and/or DNS/Server Error (Line 68)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
More information here:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_p.htm#pnf
Error Message: The Page Cannot Be Displayed
Other checkpoints:
Go to Windows\System32\DRIVERS\etc and rename hosts. Also go to:
winnt\help. If it is listed, delete it. Once done to go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Tcpip\Parameters
DataBasePath" = %SystemRoot%\help
And change it to: DataBasePath" = %SystemRoot%\System32\drivers\etc
Throbber
Make your own Throbber for Internet Explorer and Outlook Express in windows XP
Thumbnail - Change the size of Thumbnail View
Current user only:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ Explorer
All users:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ Explorer
Add a new DWORD value called ThumbnailSize and give it a hexidecimal value that is between
32 and 256, inclusive (that is, the lowest possible value is 32 and the highest is 256): A value of 32
will give you the smallest possible thumbnails, and 256 will give you the biggest.
Tip: If you set the thumbnail view and then go to folder options on the view tab and apply to
all folders, Windows
Explorer will remember.
Thumbnail - Disable Cache
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ Explorer\Advanced.
Value Name: DisableThumbnailCache, Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value), Value Data:
(0 = enabled, 1 = disable cache). Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value,
called 'DisableThumbnailCache' and edit the value according to the settings below. Exit your
registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Thumbnail View
Restore Thumbnail Views in XP (Line 17)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
ThumbsPlus supports five customizable thumbnail views. In small, large, and custom views, the
thumbnails are displayed much like the icon display for files in Windows Explorer.
You may also configure the thumbnail views small, large, and custom to not display a thumbnail.
When you do this the thumbnail display looks similar to Windows Explorer List View. One big
difference between this "no Thumbnail" view and Windows Explorer is that when hovering over
an image with a thumbnail, ThumbsPlus will display an image tip for the image. Image tips can be
disabled by checking the Disable popup image tips on the Preferences tab.
ThunkConnect32
RUNDLL32.EXE - Entry Point Not Found. The procedure entry point ThunkConnect32 could

not be located in the
dynamic link library KERNEL32.dll.
You need to update your display drivers. More info here:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;330159&Product=winxp
Tips
50 Things You Didn't Know About XP - Chris Pirillo (Lockergnome)
Windows XP Tips and Tricks
When opening the Command Prompt window, in Windows ME a file called
c:\windows\command\cmdinit.bat would automatically run. It doesn't run any more in XP. In this
file you can add doskey aliases or whatever else you would like to run upon startup of this
command window.
To make it run in XP: Go to Windows Explorer\Windows\Command. Right click in the right
pane and choose New/Text Document (Notepad). Copy these lines into the folder:
@echo off
echo Autorun cmdinit aliases
doskey dir=dir /on /p $*
And save as: cmdinit.bat Then go to this key in the registry (Start/Run/Regedit) or download this
regedit.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Command Processor. Add the name AutoRun
with reg_sz data
c:\windows\command\cmdinit.bat
(tip provided by
Gary DiSal)
Tips - Add Your Own
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Tips.
Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value), Value Data: Tip Text. Create a new string valued named by
incrementing the existing value names and set it to the required tip text.
Toolbar Repair
This corrects missing Address Bar, Toolbars and/or Menu bars in Windows Explorer and Internet
Explorer. Download my Toolbar Repair Utility here.
Tool Tips - Disable
Disable Tool Tips - Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced.
Modify or create, "ShowInfoTip" and set the Value to 0. To restore set the Value to 1. This edit
excludes the Start Button.
Disable Balloon Tips - Start/Run/Regedit

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced.
Modify or create, "EnableBalloonTips" and set the Value to 0. To restore set the Value to 1.
How To: Turn off the Balloon Tooltips and Pop-ups
Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/View/Advanced/Uncheck Popup Descriptions for Folder
and Desktop Items.
Related Registry entry:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
"FolderContentsInfoTip"=dword:00000000
To turn off Windows Explorer Pop-Ups:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\tips
"Show"=dword:00000001
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
"ShowInfoTip"=dword:00000001
How To: Turn off Tooltips
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced\
StartButtonBalloonTip - values are from "2" to "1" or "0".
For Pro: Start/Run/gpedit.msc. Local Computer/User Configuration/Administrative
Templates/Start Menu and Taskbar/Remove Balloon Tips on Start Menu Items/Right Click
Properties...
Disable Balloon Tips or Disable All (Row 11)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Disable All includes: Balloon Tips, Folder Contents Info Tips, Explorer Pop-Ups, Show Info Tips,
Start Menu and Notification Area.
To use the Regedit: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting
Edit.
Customize Windows XP
Toolbar - Missing
This corrects missing Address Bar, Toolbars and/or Menu bars in Windows Explorer and Internet
Explorer. Download my Toolbar Repair Utility here. Do manually alter the settings...see below:
Close any open Internet Explorer and Windows Explorer windows. Click Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Toolbar
There are 3 sub keys: Explorer, ShellBrowser, WebBrowser'. In each of these sub-keys is the
entry for ITBarLayout

For IE Toolbars: The WebBrowser Sub-key directly affects IE. For Windows Explorer Toolbars:
The Explorer Sub-key directly affects Explorer. The ShellBrowser sub-key may affect IE as well.
Its effect on IE and Windows Explorer is unknown at this time, so if the first option doesn't work,
delete the ITBarLayout value here as well.
Choose the relevant sub-key and right click where it says ITBarLayout and select Delete. The
deleted value will automatically be recreated for you. You may want to right click on the main
key (above) and select Export. This will allow you to backup the contents of the whole key,
including subkeys.
Restore Taskbar, Start Menu and Desktop (Line 117)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Restore Taskbar and Desktop to Default Functionality (Line 164)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Programs Aren't Minimized in the Taskbar (Line 240)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To use the VBS Files: Download .vbs file and save it to your hard drive (you may want to right
click and use Save Target As). Double click the vbs file. You will be prompted when the script is
done.
NOTE: If your anti-virus software warns you of a "malicious" script, this is normal if you have
"Script Safe" or similar technology enabled. These scripts are not malicious, but they do make
changes to the System Registry.
Tools - Internet Explorer
Add XP Google Group Search to IE Toolbar (Line 176)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Add MS Knowledge Base to the IE Toolbar (Line 176)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Add Trillian to the Tools Menu and Toolbar in IE (Line 117)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Remove Hotbar (Line 195)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Hotbar - Explorer/New Freezes (Line 206)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Remove Added IE Toolbar Entries (Line 174)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Add Save & Restore Desktop Layout to Menu (Line 188)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Hotbar - Explorer/New Freezes (Line 206)

http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Restore Missing Toolbars in IE and/or Windows Explorer (Line 3)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual Options/Edits: Clear Entries from Tools
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Extensions
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Extensions
Select each subkey and look at its MenuText value in the right-hand pane. When you locate the
menu item, delete the entire subkey.
If you don't find the item, do the same search here:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Extensions
Remove Button from Tool Bar and Delete ButtonText
Start/Run/Gpedit.msc/User Configuration/Windows Settings/Internet Explorer
Mainenance/Browser User Interface. In the right pane double click Browser Toolbar
Customizations/Button...
Mail and News - Remove Mail and News from the Tools Button in IE
[HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Restrictions]
"RestGoMenu"=dword:00000001
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Restrictions]
"RestGoMenu"=dword:00000001
Remove Mail and News Toolbar Buttons in IE - drill down to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Clients
Remove the Clients Subkey or place a minus sign in front of it.
Top 10
Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/top10faqs.htm
Tour Prompt
XP displays the Windows Tour balloon prompt the first 3 times you logon to XP. If you want to
suppress the XP Tour, use the following XP registry edit
:
Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE
Key: Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Applets\Tour
Name: RunCount
Type: REG_DWORD
Value: 0
Setting RunCount = 0 will disable the balloon prompt for all users. Although the Tour will be

disabled after 3 logons, you could use the following XP registry edit to disable the Tour for a
particular user:
Hive: HKEY_CURRENT_USER
Key: Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Applets\Tour
Name: RunCount
Type: REG_DWORD
Value: 0
Trademark
Trademark list for MS
http://www.microsoft.com/trademarks/t-mark/names.htm
Transition Effect for Menus and Tooltips
Enable or Disable
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop. Value Name: UserPreferencesMask Data
Type: REG_BINARY (Binary Value) Double-click on the "UserPreferencesMask" value to open
the Edit Binary Value screen. Press the right arrow to move over to the second set of digits. Press
the delete key to remove the digits and type either '28' for the scroll effect or '3e' for the fade
effect. Restart Windows for the change to take effect.
Transparent Icons
Control Panel/System/Advanced/Performance/Settings/Visual Effects/"Use drop shadows for icon
labels on the Desktop"
Transparent Text under Icons - ALT+0160
Right click the icon in question, choose Rename, hold down the ALT key and type 0160 from the
keypad.
To remove the label for second icon, hit Alt+0160 twice (release the Alt key between each time).
For the third icon, hit Alt+0160 three times. And so
on. This could get a little tedious if you have a lot of icons, and it might be a good idea if you keep
a record of the process so that you know
how many Alt+0160's are used for each icon. You could do a printscreen of the desktop and pencil
in the number of times that you hit Alt+0160 next to
each icon.
The reason is that the shortcuts are stored in the same folder (usually) and identical filenames can't
exist in the same directory. An exception would
be if one shortcut was stored in the "All Users" folder and another in a specific user's folder.
Open Windows Explorer and look at C:\Documents and settings\All Users\Desktop to see how the
files are store and rename them if you wish.
Likewise look at C:\Documents and settings\(user name)\Desktop to see files for a specific users
desktop icons.

Troubleshooting Support Tools
1. Insert the Windows XP CD-ROM in the drive.
2. Double-click My Computer, right-click the CD-ROM drive, and then click Explore.
3. Go to Support\Tools, and then double-click Setup.exe.
4. When the Windows Support Wizard starts, click Next.
5. Click I agree on the End User License Agreement.
6. Type your name and organization and click Next.
7. Click either the Typical or Complete installation type, and then click Next.
8. Verify the installation location, and then click Install.
The Windows Support Tools are installed to the folder specified in step eight and a Windows
Support Tools folder is added to the Program Files folder on the Start menu.
NOTE: A more comprehensive version of this document is located at Support\Tools\Readme.htm
on the Windows XP CD-ROM.
Troubleshooting
Resources for Troubleshooting Windows XP
Tweaks for Windows XP
Add XP TweakUI Icon to the Control Panel
Add ControlUserPasswords2 To Control Panel
Increase Folder View Size Limit 4000 or 8000
Restore Folder Views (BagMRU/Bags)
Restore Missing Toolbars EXE
Disable CD AutoRun for Home or Pro,
Repairs the Icon View,
Set Numlock State On or Off at Startup,
Background Switcher PowerToy,
Enable/Disable Administrator on Welcome Screen,
Restore System Default Sounds,
Fix the Ding.Wav File,
List Active COM Ports,
Change Registered Owner and Organization,
Ports Lock,
Remove IE and OE Branding,
Disable the Windows Logo Keys,
Restore OE to the E-mail List in Internet Options,
Enable CD AutoPlay for Pro,
Disable Media Player Update Message,
Disable Balloon Tips or Disable All,
Disable Media Players Play List,
EXE Fix for Windows XP,
Link File Fix for Windows XP,
Create System Restore Points,
IE AutoComplete Password Prompt,
Uninstall/Reinstall NetMeeting,
Remove/Disable CD Burning Capability,

Remove Common Tasks from the Desktop,
Disable Search Assistant,
Active Desktop - Enable or Disable,
Add Recent Documents to the CM Advanced,
Restore AutoPlay Icon,
Restore Thumbnails in AVI , MPG, MPEG Files,
Add Google as Primary Search,
Search Opens When Double Clicking A Folder,
Add Outlook Express as Default Client,
Correct the Sort Order in Windows XP,
Restore IE Desktop Shortcut Icon Functions,
Defrag All Hard Drives as a Scheduled Task,
Disable System Beeps,
Add Empty Recycle Bin to the Right Click,
Enable/Disable Setting the Default Home Page,
Hide User or Add User on the Welcome Screen,
Run Startup Programs from the CMD Prompt,
Allow Users Access to CD Burning,
Add Move To and Send To to the Right Click,
Clear Search History under Search,
File Association Fixes,
Disable Thumbnail Cache,
Add Command Line to the Right Click,
Disable Internet Search for File Extensions,
Secure Desktop - Undo,
Remove Set Program Access & Defaults (SM),
Control Panel Icons are Missing,
Windows Update Restriction Error (Network),
Run Command - Reinstalling Internet Explorer,
Install Windows 98 after Installing Windows XP,
Windows XP Doesn't Save User Settings,
Change Associations from the Run Command,
Windows XP Startup - Boot Performance,
Restore CD/DVD Drives to Explorer,
KeepRas Connection (FUS) Exe or Reg,
Clear/Clean out the Open With List,
Remove Google Search History,
Uninstall Windows/Microsoft Messenger,
Restore Fast User Switching,
Super Fast Switcher PowerToy (Winkey + Q),
Uninstall TweakUI version 1.33,
Drive Rescue - Undelete and Data Recovery Tool,
Recover and Restore Deleted Files,
Restore/Repair Recycle Bin in Windows XP,
Clear Form Fields in AutoComplete,
AutoComplete Mode Enabled or Disabled,
Set Auto Disconnect Back to Default,
Remove Added Links from the Tool Menu,
AutoRuns - All Programs Running Boot/Login,
Delete an Undeletable File in Windows XP,
Add Your CD Burner to AutoPlay Actions,
XP Info - Verifies Activation Components,

Disable the Indexing Service (cisvc.exe),
Clear Recent File Lists,
Adjust the Internet Time Update Interval,
Add Defrag to the Context Menu (INF or VBS),
Keep User Display Settings,
Create a System Restore Point as a Task,
Add Switch User to the Start Button & RC,
Disable/Remove Messenger (Also from OE),
Add Copy To and Move To to the Right Click,
Remove Common Tasks from the Desktop,
Content Advisor On (Place in Startup Folder),
Content Advisor Off (Place in Startup Folder),
Regedit - Clear Last State (Save to Favorites),
Regedit - Clear Last State,
Clean Out Index.dat (Edit-Change Username),
Disk Cleanup - Compress Old Files Freezes,
Old Style Search Engine On or Off,
Add Toolbar to Outlook Express (OETool),
Clear History of Typed URL's,
Prevent My Documents and Recent Documents,
ScreenSaver Disable , Enable or Tab Missing,
Enable the Task Manager,
Shutdown Shortcut,
Add a Website Link to the Start Menu,
Remove Past Items From Notification Area,
Hide or Show Inactive Icons - Notification Area,
Restore Admin Tools (.msc),
Save Settings on Exit,
Restore Recent Documents, My Documents,
Increase Internet Explorer Downloads to 10,
Restore Files Stored on this Computer,
Enable Right Click Context Menu,
Restore winhlp32.exe for XP or XPSP1,
Restore the Run Command,
Recovery Console Fix for XP SP1,
Restore User Default Pictures,
Disable Messenger in Outlook Express,
Remove "For Testing Purposes Only" - Desktop,
Send Mail with Web Page Title/URL Included,
Correct IE Window Placement (Reg or VBS),
Change Provided By in IE on Error Run First,
Restore/Add Show Desktop to Quick Launch Bar,
Disable the Desktop Cleanup Wizard,
Separate Process for the Desktop and Explorer,
Home Page Lock for Internet Explorer,
Home Page Unlock for Internet Explorer,
Reset OE for Send To , Mail To , Send Mail,
Replace/Repair the Recycle Bin,
Disable Low Disk Space Message,
Search Google Address Bar , Q#'s , MS-KB , TN,
Error 1606 ... Access Network Location,
Prevent Programs from Stealing Focus,

Run Scheduled Tasks w/o PW Home - Undo,
Enable Show Status Bar,
Set Menu Delay to 400 or 0,
Page Cannot be Found and/or DNS/Server Error,
Reuse Same Window in Internet Explorer,
Startup/Shutdown/Logon/Logoff Status Messages,
Search is Missing from the Start Menu,
Clear Recent Documents,
Speed up Moving or Copying Zip Files,
WinFile.Exe,
Hide All or Show All Desktop Icons,
SendTo Any Folder and SendTo Clipboard,
Enable or Disable Personalized Menus - Start,
Enable or Disable Personalized Menus - Favorites,
AVI Search Remove - Restore,
Network Places Missing from the Start Menu,
Search Shows Yellow Triangle with !,
MS Windows File Extension Identifier,
Power Off or Reboot After Shutdown,
Auto End Tasks and WaitToKillServiceTimeout,
Disable "Log on using dial-up connection",
Uninstall NetMeeting,
Common Tasks View - Disable or Enable,
Disable WinKeys - Keyboard Remap/Reassign,
Speedup Browsing (Explorer and IE),
Speedup Network Logon/Boot,
Disable or Restore Picture and Fax Viewer,
Enable the Welcome Screen,
Increase Slide Show Timeout to 10 seconds,
Disable Pop-Up Error Messages Upon Boot,
Disable or Enable CheckDisk Upon Boot,
Verify or Change Program File Directory,
Change File Time Created/Modified/Accessed,
Properties Missing From My Computer,
Restore Disk Cleanup (cleanmgr),
Windows Installer Logging or Cleanup Utility,
Set Detail View for all Folders,
Restore Compressed Zipped Folders Association,
Taskbar Grouping by # or Least , Most Used,
Shortcut to Search,
Dial-up Modem or PPPoE is Unavailable,
Check E-Mail from Anywhere,
Set Default Web Browser in Windows,
Hide Inactive Icons and More,
Easy Log Off, Shutdown and Restart,
Find File Information (Name, Version and Path),
Expand ReadMe.Txt Zip Files w/o Opening,
Read Reg, VBS Edits w/o Opening (also File info),
Disable or Enable AutoDial,
Customize Folder Shell Extensions,
Show Full URL Path links in IE Status Bar,
Change Online Support Link under IE/Help,

Logon Using a Dial-Up Connection Prompt,
Remove Links folder from IE/Favorites,
Windows Installer Fix,
Enable Notepad Status Bar with Word Wrap,
Disable Messenger Service (Pop-up Spam),
Change the Warning Message in Messenger,
Disable Control/Alt/Delete,
Add SpellChecker & Button to Internet Explorer,
Decrease the Size of Taskbar Buttons - Undo,
Change the Logon ScreenSaver Automatically,
Enable/Disable LogOff - Classic or New,
Create Start Up List or Start Up Log,
Restore the Task Bar to Default Settings,
Security Hotfix Checker Tool,
Disable Unread Mail on the Welcome Screen,
Check and Open Desktop Paths,
Prevent IE History from Being Removed,
Disable Show My Pictures Toolbar in IE,
Hide System Desktop Icons,
Hide IE Icon from the Desktop Toolbar,
Enable Mouse Snap To Option/Function,
Save As - Disable: Back, MRU and Places Bar,
Remote Task Manager,
Active Registry Monitor,
Disable Remote Dial-Up Connections,
Disable "Save As" File History,
Lock Default Browser,
Restore Hide Underlined Letters - Keyboard Nav,
Change the Sort Order back to Pre-XP,
Show All Hidden Devices in the Device Manager,
FavesToGo - Save Favorites Quickly,
FavOrg - Restore and Save Favorite Icons,
Change Computer Name,
Empty Temporary Internet Files on Exit,
Add Message above User Name & Password,
Add Dialog Box/Message to Logon and Shutdown,
Disable Default "Save As" to My Pictures,
Change the Name of the Start Button,
Uninstall DirectX 9.0 (Run in Safe Mode),
Show File Information,
Enable the Task Manager,
BootVis - Performance Trace Visualization Tool,
Redirect Help and Support to a link of choice,
Enable Reinstallation of Internet Explorer or OE,
Rename the Recycle Bin,
Read/Find your Product ID Number,
Prevent Spyware from Being Installed,
Show All Hidden Devices in the Device Manager,
Restore Taskbar and Start Menu,
Force Classic View in Control Panel,
Change Notification Error Wave File,
Add Folders to the "Save As" Dialog (Places Bar),

Change the Hard Drive Icon,
Change the Folder Icon &/or Opened Folder Icon,
Mouse change for Left Handed Users,
List My Computer or My Documents First,
Increase Icon Cache,
Change Icon Wrap to One Line on the Desktop,
Show All Bitmap Views,
IE/Windows Update - Change Text or Remove,
Add Notepad as a Right Click Item,
Disable Changes being made to File Associations,
Add Explore CD-Rom to Start Button (R/C),
Add a Folder to the Start Button - Right Click,
List Page File Location, Min and Max,
System Up Time,
Show Boot Configuration(s),
View Log Events by Code or List or Clear,
Disable Windows File Protection,
Show Super Hidden File Extensions - Undo,
Lock Size and Position of the Taskbar,
Restore Desktop and Screensaver Tabs,
Restore Folder Option under Tools or NBO,
Control the F Lock Key Functionality State/Status,
Add a Folder to My Computer and Desktop,
Add Clipboard to the Control Panel,
Disable the Shutdown Command,
Change My Computer Name to User Name-Undo,
Change and/or Add an HTML Editor,
Disable Searched Word Being Highlighted in Blue,
Restore Most Frequently Used Prg. List,
Replace AM & PM (Clock) with word of Choice,
Hide All Notification Area Icons - Undo,
Hide the Clock in the Notification Area - Undo,
Clear Read-Only Attributes,
Restore Accessibility Options to Default Settings,
Search for All File Types,
Change the Command Prompt,
Remove "Open With" from Context Menu,
Disable Stand-by: Per User or Per System,
New Folder Hotkey - SM, Desktop, Specify,
Google Search from IE's Right-Click Menu,
Restore Zip Folders to Default in XP,
Add to or Modify the "New" Menu Listings,
Rename Files and Folders En Masse,
Show Slide Show of Attached Pictures in OE,
CHM Link Checker,
Add a Custom Splash Screen for User Logon's,
Disable the Script Debugger in IE,
Allow Wallpaper/Background Changes,
Enable or Disable the Splash Screen for OE,
Enable or Disable the Splash Screen for IE,
Clear Wallpaper Most Frequently Used List,
Add (OE) Send E-Mail to the Right Click,

Control Panel - Classic or Category View,
Clear NetMeeting Call History,
Retrieve the Class Name for a File Extension,
Add or Remove Programs Restriction - Undo,
Add Internet E-mail Message to New Menu,
Restore or Place Briefcase to the Desktop,
Set All Search Options to Active,
Clear Disabled Items from Msconfig Startup,
Clear Cache on Reboot,
Add Taskbar Grouping Options to the Start Menu .... and more found here:
Kelly's Korner - Tweaks for XP
Kelly's Korner - Tweaks by Category
Doug's Tweaks, Tips and Fixes
TweakUI
They're back! PowerToys are additional programs that developers work on after a product has
been released to manufacturing. They add fun and functionality to the Windows experience.
Note: We've taken great care to ensure that PowerToys operate as they should, but they are not
part of Windows and are not supported by Microsoft.
Microsoft PowerToys for Windows XP
http://www.microsoft.com/WINDOWSXP/home/downloads/powertoys.asp
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/downloads/powertoys.asp
Remove TweakUI v1.33 Manually
To remove TweakUI v1.33 manually, perform the following steps: (Written by MVP Doug Knox)
1.

2.
3.

4.

5.

Do a Find for TWEAKUI.CPL, TWEAKUI.HLP and TWEAKUI.GID. When each of
these files has been located, delete it. Note: TWEAKUI.GID may not exist on your
system.
Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT.
This step is only necessary if you wish to remove the Shortcut Icon customization. Go to
the Registry branches indicated and modify or delete the values as instructed.
a)
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\
Shell Icons\29
In the right pane, locate the value named "29". Right click on this value and select Delete.
b) HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\WindowMetrics
In the right pane, locate the value called "Shell Icon Size". Double click on this entry and
set the value to 32.
Go to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
In the right pane, locate the value called "Tweak UI". Right click on this value and select
Delete.
Close Regedit.

Or download the script here.

TweakUI - Add TweakUI Icon to the Control Panel. Download the Regedit here. To use the
Regedit: Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the import
prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting Edit.

~
U
~
Underlines - Remove
Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/View/Disable Simple Folder View in Explorer's Folder
List.
Uninstall Unwanted Components
Open the Sysoc.inf file. Each line of text in the file represents a component that can be displayed
in the Add/Remove Windows Components dialog. Delete the only word HIDE for any component
that you want to see in the dialog (do not erase the commas). Save the Sysoc.inf file, then close it,
and reboot your computer.
Uninstall Unwanted Programs - Add or Remove and from Msconfig
Uninstall XP
Manually Remove Win2K/Win XP and Restore Win9x
How to Start Windows XP Uninstallation from a Command Prompt
Uninstall Windows XP and Revert to a Previous Operating System
"How to Edit the BOOT.INI File in Windows XP"
Suggestion: How to uninstall Windows XP to 98
Boot to DOS. From there go to your XP Drive and do a format -u. This will delete any XP-Files.
Add to format -u an r and it restores the overwritten files from the last OS (you won't see the
RESTORED_OS Folder since it is implemented in the Partition.
Unmountable Boot Volume
"STOP 0x000000ED UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME" Error Message
Comment from: Mike Truitt [MS]
It comes down to an inconsistency on how the IDE specification handles caching. What most
likely has happened is that the NTFS transaction logfile ($logfile) has become out of sync with the
drive. This happens when the OS performs write
through caching and the drive instead holds the data on its hardware cache and then tries to write
it out in a non-deterministic method. This becomes a problem when there is a surprise shutdown

and the hardware cache is flushed before it is written to the drive.
To work-around the issue, you should be able to boot to a Recovery Console, log into it (see
Q308402 if you have problems with this) and then run a chkdsk /r. This will reset the $logfile and
allow you to enter the system. I would suggest getting the patch off of Windows Update for
Q315403 when the system is up and running again.
Unread Mail - Notification
Use TweakUI/Logon/Unread Mail or ...
Use TweakUI/Logon/Unread Mail and Repair/Unread Mail Count
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/downloads/powertoys.asp
Disable Unread Mail on the Welcome Screen (Line 100)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To change it manually - Start/Run/Regedit:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\UnreadMail\[Your EMail Address]. In the right pane modify: Message Count, Change it to 0.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\UnreadMail. In the
right pane modify: MessageExpiryDays Change it to 0.
Go to Start/Run and type in: control userpasswords2. Advanced/Manage Passwords/Remove.
Add Control Userpasswords2 to the Control Panel (Line 1)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Outlook mail counter for Windows XP Welcome Screen (Line 273)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Overview of Mail Notification Display on WinXP Welcome Screen
Universal Plug and Play
How to Install Universal Plug and Play
Unsigned Drivers - System Information
Click Start, Programs, Accessories, System Tools, System Information. Go to the Tools menu and
select File Signature Verification Utility.
Unmountable_Boot_Volume
When you use volumes that use the NTFS file system on integrated device electronics (IDE)
drives with caching enabled, you may receive the following error message during startup:
Download the fix here.
Stop 0x000000ED
Unmountable_Boot_Volume

Stop 0x000000ED Error Message When Volume on IDE Drive with Caching Enabled Is Mounted
Unsigned Drivers - Use Sigverif.exe:
1. Click Start, click Run, type "sigverif" (without the quotation marks), and then click OK.
2. Click Advanced, click "Look for other files that are not digitally signed", navigate to the
Winnt\System32\Drivers folder,
and then click OK.
3. Click Start.
After Sigverif.exe is finished, a list of all unsigned drivers installed on your computer are
displayed.
The list of all signed and unsigned drivers found by Sigverif.exe can be found in the Sigverif.txt
file in the %Windir% folder, typically the Winnt or Windows folder. All unsigned drivers are
noted as "Unsigned".
When you determine what drivers are unsigned, create a folder in which to place the unsigned
drivers. Typically, SysDriversBak is an easy folder name to remember.
Restart your computer without presence the unsigned drivers in the Winnt\System32\Drivers
folder and test your program or other functionality to see if the same error messages or issues
occur.
More Information: Open Help and Support and enter "file signature verification" in the Search
box for more information on the File Signature Verification Tool.
How to Perform Clean-Boot Troubleshooting
Updates
All workarounds and edits here: Why can't I download updates?
When you use the Windows Update scan feature, the scan quickly reaches 100%, and then
displays the "There are no updates available at this time" message. The log file contains error
0x800c0008 or 0x80072EE4.
The error is caused by SSL (Secure Socket Layer). The scan process requires SSL and if the date
and time on your computer varies too much from the valid date and time of the SSL certificates on
Windows Update, the process will fail.
Verify that your computer's date and time are accurate and that the Internet Explorer language
option is not empty.
To check the language setting in Internet Explorer:
1. Click "Tools" and then choose "Internet Options"
2. Click the "Languages" button
3. Make sure at least one language is listed in the "Language Options" dialog
Updates - Won't Install

At the command prompt (Start/Run/CMD), type the following commands, pressing ENTER after
each line:
net stop cryptsvc
ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 oldcatroot2
net start cryptsvc
Tips:
Windows Update Greyed Out - Restore (Line 179)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Windows Update Restriction Error (Network) Line 28
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Troubleshooting Windows Update Issues
http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/troubleshoot/
Windows Update Microsoft Newsgroup
news://msnews.microsoft.com/microsoft.public.windowsupdate
"Administrators Only" Error Message When You Attempt to Use the Windows Update Site
Problems When Viewing or Downloading From Windows Update
Third-Party Products That Conflict with Windows Update
Update Downloads
Download updates to install later. Connect from an XP machine
http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/en/default.asp.
Select "Personalize Windows Update". Place a check in "Display the link to the Windows Update
Catalog under See Also."
Select Windows Update Catalog under See Also.
Tip: To Save Windows Update Files: Connect to the Windows Update Catalog:
http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/en/default.asp?corporate=true. Click on the link
for your Download
Basket. Review/Remove updates/Browse (Pick Folder)/Download Now.
You Cannot Obtain Windows XP Updates for Installation on Multiple Computers
Update - Error Message: Access Denied
Automated Edit:
Windows Update Restriction Error (Network) Line 28
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Network policy settings prevent you from using Windows Update to download and install updates
on your computer. If you believe you have received this message in error, please check with your
system administrator. Solution:

For Windows XP Pro:
Start/Run/gpedit.msc. User Configuration/Administrative Templates/Windows
Components/Windows Update. In the right pane, double click, Remove access to all Windows
Update Features and set it to disabled.
For Windows XP Home Edition:
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\WindowsUpda
te. Locate the value in the right pane called DisableWindowsUpdateAccess. Double click this
entry and change the value to 0 (zero) or right click it and select Delete.
Update - Issues
There are various solutions being put forth for the failed update result.
Option 1) Click Start, Run and enter SERVICES.MSC Go to Cryptographic Services and double
click it. It should be set to Automatic and should be Started. If you were required to change this,
try the Windows Update site again.
Option 2) Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT Go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\CurrentVersion\Policies\WindowsUpdate
If the key WindowsUpdate does not exist, create it by right clicking on the Policies sub-key and
selecting New, Key and giving the new key the name WindowsUpdate.
Within this key, you may see one or both of the following DWORD entries:
NoWindowsUpdate and/or DisableWindowsUpdateAccess
If either of these entries appear, change their values to zero by double clicking on them and setting
the value to 0 (zero). If they do not appear, add them as DWORD entries with their values at zero.
To create a new value, right click in the right pane and select New, DWord value and name it as
indicated.
Next, go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
you may see the entry NoWindowsUpdate. If it exists, it may be set to 1. To change this, double
click the NoWindowsUpdate value and set it to 0 (zero). If it does not exist, right click in the right
pane and select New, DWord value. Give it the name NoWindowsUpdate and leave the value at 0.
Next, go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE \SOFTWARE \Microsoft \Windows \CurrentVersion
\WindowsUpdate

Right-click on the WindowsUpdate folder, click on Permissions. Give Admin (and/or System)
Full Control and Read permissions by checking the allow boxes. Close Regedit and reboot. Try
the Windows Update site again.
Update - Error Message
WINUP - Error "Software update incomplete, this Windows Update software did not update
successfully."
~~~~
Update MS06-015: Problems in Windows Explorer or the Windows shell after you install
security update MS06-015
More info here: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/918165
Direct Download of the fix here: http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/regs_edits/hp.vbs
or here: on line 383 (right hand side): http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
~~~
Updates - Remind Me
System control panel, Automatic Updates tab, click "Restore Declined Updates" to have Auto
Update present you with those updates again.
Upgrade Paths
Microsoft Windows 3. x
No supported upgrade paths
Microsoft Windows 95
No supported upgrade paths
Microsoft Windows 98\Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition\Microsoft Windows
Millennium Edition
Windows XP Home Edition Retail (Full) Version
Windows XP Home Edition Upgrade Version
Windows XP Professional Retail (Full) Version
Windows XP Professional Upgrade Version
Microsoft Windows NT 3.51 Workstation
No supported upgrade paths
Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 Workstation
Windows XP Professional Retail (Full) Version
Windows XP Professional Upgrade Version
Microsoft Windows 2000 Trial Edition
No supported upgrade paths
Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional
Windows XP Professional Retail (Full) Version

Windows XP Professional Upgrade Version
Microsoft Windows NT 3.51 Server
No supported upgrade paths
Microsoft Windows NT 3.51 Server with Citrix
No supported upgrade paths
Microsoft BackOffice Small Business Server
No supported upgrade paths
Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
Windows XP Professional Retail (Full) Version
Windows XP Professional Upgrade Version
NOTE: All Versions of Windows NT 4.0 (Workstation, Server, Enterprise and Terminal Server)
require Service Pack 5 to be installed prior to upgrading to Windows XP. To obtain Service Pack
5, go to the following Microsoft Web site:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows. Windows XP Supported Upgrade Paths
Uptime
Displays how long time your system has been up as well as the exact time of boot. Ability to log
all events to a log file and display statistics over computer usage. Windows Uptime can also check
uptime for remote computers and batch-query machines in a network through commandline
switches. More information here.
URL - HTTP, FTP and other prefixes
Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT Go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\URL\Prefixes
In the right pane, you will see values named www, ftp, gopher, mosaic and others. This is where
Windows interprets addresses such as www.msn.com, ftp.microsoft.com and adds the appropriate
http:// or ftp:// portion of the URL. You can add your own definitions. An example would be your
personal web site. Say the URL is http://johnsmith.freewebsites.com. You wouldn't be able to
type in johnsmith.freewebsites.com in the address bar of IE, as IE wouldn't know how to translate
johnsmith. Add a new String value to the above key, named johnsmith and set the value to http://
Now, IE will be able to translate johnsmith.freewebsites.com and add the http:// portion
automatically.
URL - MSN
When you type an URL that doesn't exist, it reverts back to the MSN Page. To correct:
Boot into Safe Mode, navigate to: C:\Documents and Settings\"User"\Application Data and delete
ple_ie0.zip.
Note: Application Data is a hidden folder.
URL - Typed URL Editor

It reads all typed pages from registry and adds it to the list box. From there you can edit: Show
All, Rename, Add New, Delete All and Delete Selected. Screenshot and Download here.
URL Encode Code Chart
URL Encoding
USB
Interface devices (in Devices by type view). If the controller does not appear in Device Manager,
then USB may not be enabled in BIOS or EFI. When you are prompted as you start your
computer, enter BIOS or EFI setup, and enable USB.
If USB is enabled in BIOS or EFI but the USB host controller does not appear in Device Manager
(under Universal Serial Bus controllers), or a yellow warning icon appears next to the host
controller name, then the version of BIOS or EFI may be outdated.
Contact the maker or vendor for your computer and obtain the current version of BIOS or EFI.
If the controller appears in Device Manager, right-click the controller name and then click
Properties. Problems and suggested actions are displayed under Device status. For more
information, click Related Topics.
USB ports have a separate entry in Device Manager. To check the device status, click Universal
Serial Bus controllers, right-click USB Root Hub, and then click Properties. If you do not see
USB Root Hub, you might not have a USB port installed on your computer. You can also use the
Hardware troubleshooter to diagnose and solve problems with hardware devices such as USB
game controllers. Start the Hardware troubleshooter.
User Accounts
HOW TO: Create and Configure User Accounts in Windows XP
How to Copy User Profiles
"Copy To" Button in System Properties Dialog Box Is Unavailable
Overview of All Groups
User Accounts - Can't Remove
When trying to remove a user account via Control Panel/User Accounts either via Safe Mode or
Normal mode and it just freezes.....here is the quick fix: In normal mode go to Start/Run and type
in control userpasswords2. Once there, left click the user to be removed and simply remove.
Apply/Ok your way out. Done deal.
Tip: Add ControlUserPasswords2 To Control Panel
User - Restrict Logon Hours - For Pro Only
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/tips/xp_restrict_users.htm
Click Start, Run and enter GPEDIT.MSC Go to Computer Configuration, Windows Settings,
Security Settings, Local Policies, Security Options. In the right pane, locate the entry for Network
Security: Force logoff when logon hours expire
More information on setting logon hours can be found in Help and Support. Type "logon hours"

without the quotes in the Search box. Go to Full text matches and click on the Net user entry.
Examples of setting the logon hours would be:
net user kelly /time:M-F,08:00-17:00
net user kelly /time:M-F,8am-5pm
net user kelly /time:M,4am-5pm;T,1pm-3pm;W-F,8:00-17:00
To cancel and/or clear: Go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: (Use as an example) net user Kelly
/time:all
User Account - Remove User Account Password
Open the Control Panel, select User Accounts, select your account, select 'Create a password,'
type your password twice (and a password hint, if desired), then click Create Password. Change
your mind? Follow the steps above to open User Accounts and select your account. Click 'Remove
my password,' type your password once, then click Remove Password.
User Name
Remove User Name from the Start Menu - For Pro: Start/Run/gpedit.msc
User Configuration/Administrative Templates/Start Menu and Taskbar/Remove User Name from
the Start Menu.
Remove User Name from the Start Menu (Line 207)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Err Msg: The User Name May Not Be the Same as the Computer...
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q310/8/45.asp
Duplicate name appears on the network http://tinyurl.com/2c6w
User Name - Hide (Reverse for Show User on the Welcome Screen)
Click Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows
NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon\SpecialAccounts\UserList
(note there is a space between Windows and NT).
Add the username you wish to hide as a DWORD value. Set the value to 0 (zero). This will
prevent the user from showing up on the welcome screen. You will need to press CTRL-ALT-DEL
twice at the logon screen to get the old Win2K logon, to be able to logon to the account you've
hidden.
User Name - Show Last User Name - Disable
Clear Last User on W2K Style Boot Screen in XP (Line 150) Right Hand Side
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Start/Run/Regedit

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ Policies\System
Value Name: dontdisplaylastusername Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value) Value Data:
(1 = remove username) Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called
'dontdisplaylastusername' and edit the value according to the settings above. Exit your registry,
you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
User Pictures
Default Pictures are stored here: Windows Explorer\Documents and Settings\All
Users\Application Data\Microsoft\User Account Pictures\Default Pictures
Restore User Default Pictures (Line 58)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
HOW TO: Add or Change a User's Picture in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q292434
How to Add a Specific Picture
Find a picture you are interested in using and use Save As to download and/or move the picture in
question to your My Pictures Folder. Then go to User Account/Change my picture/Browse for
more pictures/My Pictures Folder/Choose the picture you want to use, then click Open.
Summary of an image is 48x48/71 dpi, depth 24.
Note: If you have disabled Picture and Fax Viewer by using regsvr32 /u shimgvw.dll, you will not
be able to change the picture. To restore, go to Start/Run and type in: regsvr32 shimgvw.dll
User Picture is Missing on Start Menu: It's only there if you are using XP themes. If using classic
there is no picture. Go to Start/Run and type in: regsvr32 shimgvw
HOW TO: Add or Change a User's Picture in Windows XP
User Profiles
Copy a User Profile
Windows XP User Profiles
How to Check User Profiles on a Windows XP-Based Computer
User State Migration Tool
Two Outlook Inbox Icons Are Present After You Use the User State Migration Tool to Migrate
User Settings
Cookies, Network Printers, or Drive Mappings Are Not Migrated If You Use the User State
Migration Tool
How to Troubleshoot Issues with the User State Migration Tool and the Files and Settings
Transfer Wizard
Outlook 97 Signatures Are Not Migrated If You Use the User State Migration Tool
User Tracking - Disable

This setting stops Windows from recording user tracking information including which
applications a user runs and which files and documents are being accessed.
http://www.winguides.com/registry/display.php/641/
Users - How to Configure the Winexit.scr Screen Saver
Use Windows Explorer to locate the Winexit.scr file in the Windows 2000 Resource Kit folder on
your hard disk. Right-click the Winexit.scr file, and then click Install.
The Display Properties dialog box appears with the Screen Saver tab active. The Logoff Screen
Saver entry is automatically selected. Click Settings. Select the Force application termination
check box to force programs to quit.
In the Countdown for n seconds box, type the number of seconds for which the logoff dialog box
appears before the user is logged off. In the Logoff Message box, type the message that appears
during the logoff countdown. Click OK.
In the Display Properties dialog box, click Preview. You see the Auto Logoff dialog box. It
displays the logoff message and the countdown timer. Click Cancel. Click OK.
The Force application termination option forces programs to quit even if the programs contain
unsaved data. If you do not use this option, programs that contain unsaved data do not quit and the
user is not logged off. It is a good idea to set your corporate policy to automatically save user
documents if you use the Force application termination option.
HOW TO: Force Users to Quit Programs and Log Off After a Period of Inactivity in Windows XP
Users - Copy
Create a new account using the name that you want to appear in the user profile, for example,
C:\Documents and Settings\newuser. Then logon to newuser and logoff. Now the newuser
account and profile folder
(C:\Documents and Settings\newuser) exist. Logon to an admin account that is NOT the admin
account you want to copy from. If you have to, create a third account to do this.
Then open the system control panel to the user profiles tab and copy the profile from
COMPUTERNAME/Administrator to COMPUTERNAME/newuser. Now logon to newuser and
check your files and settings.
Once you are sure that newuser is as you like it, you can delete the old account (unless it is the
Administrator account, then you should leave it alone for emergency use). You can also rename
newuser to whatever you want to appear on the Welcome Screen.
Utilities
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Windows XP Security Console
Clear Recent Files List
Toolbars missing Change Registered Owner
in Windows
and Organization
Explorer or
Internet Exp
Set Quick Launch as Default for New Users,
etc.

Change Internet Time Update Interval

Spyware Removers
SUPERAntiSpyware is the most thorough scanner on the market. Our Multi-Dimensional
Scanning and Process Interrogation Technology will detect spyware that other products miss!
SUPERAntiSpyware will remove ALL the Spyware, NOT just the easy ones!
File Research Center - Free File and Process Information

NOTE: All other Tweaks, Tips, Regedits and Scripts can be found here.
Kelly's Tweaks and Fixes
Doug's Tweaks and Tips
Windows XP Tips and Tricks

~
U
~
Underlines - Remove
Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/View/Disable Simple Folder View in Explorer's Folder
List.
Uninstall Unwanted Components
Open the Sysoc.inf file. Each line of text in the file represents a component that can be displayed
in the Add/Remove Windows Components dialog. Delete the only word HIDE for any component
that you want to see in the dialog (do not erase the commas). Save the Sysoc.inf file, then close it,
and reboot your computer.
Uninstall Unwanted Programs - Add or Remove and from Msconfig
Uninstall XP
Manually Remove Win2K/Win XP and Restore Win9x
How to Start Windows XP Uninstallation from a Command Prompt
Uninstall Windows XP and Revert to a Previous Operating System
"How to Edit the BOOT.INI File in Windows XP"
Suggestion: How to uninstall Windows XP to 98
Boot to DOS. From there go to your XP Drive and do a format -u. This will delete any XP-Files.
Add to format -u an r and it restores the overwritten files from the last OS (you won't see the
RESTORED_OS Folder since it is implemented in the Partition.
Unmountable Boot Volume
"STOP 0x000000ED UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME" Error Message
Comment from: Mike Truitt [MS]

It comes down to an inconsistency on how the IDE specification handles caching. What most
likely has happened is that the NTFS transaction logfile ($logfile) has become out of sync with the
drive. This happens when the OS performs write
through caching and the drive instead holds the data on its hardware cache and then tries to write
it out in a non-deterministic method. This becomes a problem when there is a surprise shutdown
and the hardware cache is flushed before it is written to the drive.
To work-around the issue, you should be able to boot to a Recovery Console, log into it (see
Q308402 if you have problems with this) and then run a chkdsk /r. This will reset the $logfile and
allow you to enter the system. I would suggest getting the patch off of Windows Update for
Q315403 when the system is up and running again.
Unread Mail - Notification
Use TweakUI/Logon/Unread Mail or ...
Use TweakUI/Logon/Unread Mail and Repair/Unread Mail Count
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/downloads/powertoys.asp
Disable Unread Mail on the Welcome Screen (Line 100)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To change it manually - Start/Run/Regedit:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\UnreadMail\[Your EMail Address]. In the right pane modify: Message Count, Change it to 0.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\UnreadMail. In the
right pane modify: MessageExpiryDays Change it to 0.
Go to Start/Run and type in: control userpasswords2. Advanced/Manage Passwords/Remove.
Add Control Userpasswords2 to the Control Panel (Line 1)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Outlook mail counter for Windows XP Welcome Screen (Line 273)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Overview of Mail Notification Display on WinXP Welcome Screen
Universal Plug and Play
How to Install Universal Plug and Play
Unsigned Drivers - System Information
Click Start, Programs, Accessories, System Tools, System Information. Go to the Tools menu and
select File Signature Verification Utility.
Unmountable_Boot_Volume
When you use volumes that use the NTFS file system on integrated device electronics (IDE)
drives with caching enabled, you may receive the following error message during startup:

Download the fix here.
Stop 0x000000ED
Unmountable_Boot_Volume
Stop 0x000000ED Error Message When Volume on IDE Drive with Caching Enabled Is Mounted
Unsigned Drivers - Use Sigverif.exe:
1. Click Start, click Run, type "sigverif" (without the quotation marks), and then click OK.
2. Click Advanced, click "Look for other files that are not digitally signed", navigate to the
Winnt\System32\Drivers folder,
and then click OK.
3. Click Start.
After Sigverif.exe is finished, a list of all unsigned drivers installed on your computer are
displayed.
The list of all signed and unsigned drivers found by Sigverif.exe can be found in the Sigverif.txt
file in the %Windir% folder, typically the Winnt or Windows folder. All unsigned drivers are
noted as "Unsigned".
When you determine what drivers are unsigned, create a folder in which to place the unsigned
drivers. Typically, SysDriversBak is an easy folder name to remember.
Restart your computer without presence the unsigned drivers in the Winnt\System32\Drivers
folder and test your program or other functionality to see if the same error messages or issues
occur.
More Information: Open Help and Support and enter "file signature verification" in the Search
box for more information on the File Signature Verification Tool.
How to Perform Clean-Boot Troubleshooting
Updates
All workarounds and edits here: Why can't I download updates?
When you use the Windows Update scan feature, the scan quickly reaches 100%, and then
displays the "There are no updates available at this time" message. The log file contains error
0x800c0008 or 0x80072EE4.
The error is caused by SSL (Secure Socket Layer). The scan process requires SSL and if the date
and time on your computer varies too much from the valid date and time of the SSL certificates on
Windows Update, the process will fail.
Verify that your computer's date and time are accurate and that the Internet Explorer language
option is not empty.
To check the language setting in Internet Explorer:
1. Click "Tools" and then choose "Internet Options"

2. Click the "Languages" button
3. Make sure at least one language is listed in the "Language Options" dialog
Updates - Won't Install

At the command prompt (Start/Run/CMD), type the following commands, pressing ENTER after
each line:
net stop cryptsvc
ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 oldcatroot2
net start cryptsvc
Tips:
Windows Update Greyed Out - Restore (Line 179)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Windows Update Restriction Error (Network) Line 28
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Troubleshooting Windows Update Issues
http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/troubleshoot/
Windows Update Microsoft Newsgroup
news://msnews.microsoft.com/microsoft.public.windowsupdate
"Administrators Only" Error Message When You Attempt to Use the Windows Update Site
Problems When Viewing or Downloading From Windows Update
Third-Party Products That Conflict with Windows Update
Update Downloads
Download updates to install later. Connect from an XP machine
http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/en/default.asp.
Select "Personalize Windows Update". Place a check in "Display the link to the Windows Update
Catalog under See Also."
Select Windows Update Catalog under See Also.
Tip: To Save Windows Update Files: Connect to the Windows Update Catalog:
http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/en/default.asp?corporate=true. Click on the link
for your Download
Basket. Review/Remove updates/Browse (Pick Folder)/Download Now.
You Cannot Obtain Windows XP Updates for Installation on Multiple Computers
Update - Error Message: Access Denied
Automated Edit:

Windows Update Restriction Error (Network) Line 28
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Network policy settings prevent you from using Windows Update to download and install updates
on your computer. If you believe you have received this message in error, please check with your
system administrator. Solution:
For Windows XP Pro:
Start/Run/gpedit.msc. User Configuration/Administrative Templates/Windows
Components/Windows Update. In the right pane, double click, Remove access to all Windows
Update Features and set it to disabled.
For Windows XP Home Edition:
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\WindowsUpda
te. Locate the value in the right pane called DisableWindowsUpdateAccess. Double click this
entry and change the value to 0 (zero) or right click it and select Delete.
Update - Issues
There are various solutions being put forth for the failed update result.
Option 1) Click Start, Run and enter SERVICES.MSC Go to Cryptographic Services and double
click it. It should be set to Automatic and should be Started. If you were required to change this,
try the Windows Update site again.
Option 2) Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT Go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\CurrentVersion\Policies\WindowsUpdate
If the key WindowsUpdate does not exist, create it by right clicking on the Policies sub-key and
selecting New, Key and giving the new key the name WindowsUpdate.
Within this key, you may see one or both of the following DWORD entries:
NoWindowsUpdate and/or DisableWindowsUpdateAccess
If either of these entries appear, change their values to zero by double clicking on them and setting
the value to 0 (zero). If they do not appear, add them as DWORD entries with their values at zero.
To create a new value, right click in the right pane and select New, DWord value and name it as
indicated.
Next, go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
you may see the entry NoWindowsUpdate. If it exists, it may be set to 1. To change this, double
click the NoWindowsUpdate value and set it to 0 (zero). If it does not exist, right click in the right
pane and select New, DWord value. Give it the name NoWindowsUpdate and leave the value at 0.

Next, go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE \SOFTWARE \Microsoft \Windows \CurrentVersion
\WindowsUpdate
Right-click on the WindowsUpdate folder, click on Permissions. Give Admin (and/or System)
Full Control and Read permissions by checking the allow boxes. Close Regedit and reboot. Try
the Windows Update site again.
Update - Error Message
WINUP - Error "Software update incomplete, this Windows Update software did not update
successfully."
~~~~
Update MS06-015: Problems in Windows Explorer or the Windows shell after you install
security update MS06-015
More info here: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/918165
Direct Download of the fix here: http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/regs_edits/hp.vbs
or here: on line 383 (right hand side): http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
~~~
Updates - Remind Me
System control panel, Automatic Updates tab, click "Restore Declined Updates" to have Auto
Update present you with those updates again.
Upgrade Paths
Microsoft Windows 3. x
No supported upgrade paths
Microsoft Windows 95
No supported upgrade paths
Microsoft Windows 98\Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition\Microsoft Windows
Millennium Edition
Windows XP Home Edition Retail (Full) Version
Windows XP Home Edition Upgrade Version
Windows XP Professional Retail (Full) Version
Windows XP Professional Upgrade Version
Microsoft Windows NT 3.51 Workstation
No supported upgrade paths
Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 Workstation
Windows XP Professional Retail (Full) Version
Windows XP Professional Upgrade Version

Microsoft Windows 2000 Trial Edition
No supported upgrade paths
Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional
Windows XP Professional Retail (Full) Version
Windows XP Professional Upgrade Version
Microsoft Windows NT 3.51 Server
No supported upgrade paths
Microsoft Windows NT 3.51 Server with Citrix
No supported upgrade paths
Microsoft BackOffice Small Business Server
No supported upgrade paths
Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
Windows XP Professional Retail (Full) Version
Windows XP Professional Upgrade Version
NOTE: All Versions of Windows NT 4.0 (Workstation, Server, Enterprise and Terminal Server)
require Service Pack 5 to be installed prior to upgrading to Windows XP. To obtain Service Pack
5, go to the following Microsoft Web site:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows. Windows XP Supported Upgrade Paths
Uptime
Displays how long time your system has been up as well as the exact time of boot. Ability to log
all events to a log file and display statistics over computer usage. Windows Uptime can also check
uptime for remote computers and batch-query machines in a network through commandline
switches. More information here.
URL - HTTP, FTP and other prefixes
Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT Go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\URL\Prefixes
In the right pane, you will see values named www, ftp, gopher, mosaic and others. This is where
Windows interprets addresses such as www.msn.com, ftp.microsoft.com and adds the appropriate
http:// or ftp:// portion of the URL. You can add your own definitions. An example would be your
personal web site. Say the URL is http://johnsmith.freewebsites.com. You wouldn't be able to
type in johnsmith.freewebsites.com in the address bar of IE, as IE wouldn't know how to translate
johnsmith. Add a new String value to the above key, named johnsmith and set the value to http://
Now, IE will be able to translate johnsmith.freewebsites.com and add the http:// portion
automatically.
URL - MSN
When you type an URL that doesn't exist, it reverts back to the MSN Page. To correct:
Boot into Safe Mode, navigate to: C:\Documents and Settings\"User"\Application Data and delete

ple_ie0.zip.
Note: Application Data is a hidden folder.
URL - Typed URL Editor
It reads all typed pages from registry and adds it to the list box. From there you can edit: Show
All, Rename, Add New, Delete All and Delete Selected. Screenshot and Download here.
URL Encode Code Chart
URL Encoding
USB
Interface devices (in Devices by type view). If the controller does not appear in Device Manager,
then USB may not be enabled in BIOS or EFI. When you are prompted as you start your
computer, enter BIOS or EFI setup, and enable USB.
If USB is enabled in BIOS or EFI but the USB host controller does not appear in Device Manager
(under Universal Serial Bus controllers), or a yellow warning icon appears next to the host
controller name, then the version of BIOS or EFI may be outdated.
Contact the maker or vendor for your computer and obtain the current version of BIOS or EFI.
If the controller appears in Device Manager, right-click the controller name and then click
Properties. Problems and suggested actions are displayed under Device status. For more
information, click Related Topics.
USB ports have a separate entry in Device Manager. To check the device status, click Universal
Serial Bus controllers, right-click USB Root Hub, and then click Properties. If you do not see
USB Root Hub, you might not have a USB port installed on your computer. You can also use the
Hardware troubleshooter to diagnose and solve problems with hardware devices such as USB
game controllers. Start the Hardware troubleshooter.
User Accounts
HOW TO: Create and Configure User Accounts in Windows XP
How to Copy User Profiles
"Copy To" Button in System Properties Dialog Box Is Unavailable
Overview of All Groups
User Accounts - Can't Remove
When trying to remove a user account via Control Panel/User Accounts either via Safe Mode or
Normal mode and it just freezes.....here is the quick fix: In normal mode go to Start/Run and type
in control userpasswords2. Once there, left click the user to be removed and simply remove.
Apply/Ok your way out. Done deal.
Tip: Add ControlUserPasswords2 To Control Panel
User - Restrict Logon Hours - For Pro Only
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/tips/xp_restrict_users.htm

Click Start, Run and enter GPEDIT.MSC Go to Computer Configuration, Windows Settings,
Security Settings, Local Policies, Security Options. In the right pane, locate the entry for Network
Security: Force logoff when logon hours expire
More information on setting logon hours can be found in Help and Support. Type "logon hours"
without the quotes in the Search box. Go to Full text matches and click on the Net user entry.
Examples of setting the logon hours would be:
net user kelly /time:M-F,08:00-17:00
net user kelly /time:M-F,8am-5pm
net user kelly /time:M,4am-5pm;T,1pm-3pm;W-F,8:00-17:00
To cancel and/or clear: Go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: (Use as an example) net user Kelly
/time:all
User Account - Remove User Account Password
Open the Control Panel, select User Accounts, select your account, select 'Create a password,'
type your password twice (and a password hint, if desired), then click Create Password. Change
your mind? Follow the steps above to open User Accounts and select your account. Click 'Remove
my password,' type your password once, then click Remove Password.
User Name
Remove User Name from the Start Menu - For Pro: Start/Run/gpedit.msc
User Configuration/Administrative Templates/Start Menu and Taskbar/Remove User Name from
the Start Menu.
Remove User Name from the Start Menu (Line 207)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Err Msg: The User Name May Not Be the Same as the Computer...
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q310/8/45.asp
Duplicate name appears on the network http://tinyurl.com/2c6w
User Name - Hide (Reverse for Show User on the Welcome Screen)
Click Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows
NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon\SpecialAccounts\UserList
(note there is a space between Windows and NT).
Add the username you wish to hide as a DWORD value. Set the value to 0 (zero). This will
prevent the user from showing up on the welcome screen. You will need to press CTRL-ALT-DEL
twice at the logon screen to get the old Win2K logon, to be able to logon to the account you've
hidden.
User Name - Show Last User Name - Disable

Clear Last User on W2K Style Boot Screen in XP (Line 150) Right Hand Side
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ Policies\System
Value Name: dontdisplaylastusername Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value) Value Data:
(1 = remove username) Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called
'dontdisplaylastusername' and edit the value according to the settings above. Exit your registry,
you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
User Pictures
Default Pictures are stored here: Windows Explorer\Documents and Settings\All
Users\Application Data\Microsoft\User Account Pictures\Default Pictures
Restore User Default Pictures (Line 58)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
HOW TO: Add or Change a User's Picture in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q292434
How to Add a Specific Picture
Find a picture you are interested in using and use Save As to download and/or move the picture in
question to your My Pictures Folder. Then go to User Account/Change my picture/Browse for
more pictures/My Pictures Folder/Choose the picture you want to use, then click Open.
Summary of an image is 48x48/71 dpi, depth 24.
Note: If you have disabled Picture and Fax Viewer by using regsvr32 /u shimgvw.dll, you will not
be able to change the picture. To restore, go to Start/Run and type in: regsvr32 shimgvw.dll
User Picture is Missing on Start Menu: It's only there if you are using XP themes. If using classic
there is no picture. Go to Start/Run and type in: regsvr32 shimgvw
HOW TO: Add or Change a User's Picture in Windows XP
User Profiles
Copy a User Profile
Windows XP User Profiles
How to Check User Profiles on a Windows XP-Based Computer
User State Migration Tool
Two Outlook Inbox Icons Are Present After You Use the User State Migration Tool to Migrate
User Settings
Cookies, Network Printers, or Drive Mappings Are Not Migrated If You Use the User State
Migration Tool
How to Troubleshoot Issues with the User State Migration Tool and the Files and Settings

Transfer Wizard
Outlook 97 Signatures Are Not Migrated If You Use the User State Migration Tool
User Tracking - Disable
This setting stops Windows from recording user tracking information including which
applications a user runs and which files and documents are being accessed.
http://www.winguides.com/registry/display.php/641/
Users - How to Configure the Winexit.scr Screen Saver
Use Windows Explorer to locate the Winexit.scr file in the Windows 2000 Resource Kit folder on
your hard disk. Right-click the Winexit.scr file, and then click Install.
The Display Properties dialog box appears with the Screen Saver tab active. The Logoff Screen
Saver entry is automatically selected. Click Settings. Select the Force application termination
check box to force programs to quit.
In the Countdown for n seconds box, type the number of seconds for which the logoff dialog box
appears before the user is logged off. In the Logoff Message box, type the message that appears
during the logoff countdown. Click OK.
In the Display Properties dialog box, click Preview. You see the Auto Logoff dialog box. It
displays the logoff message and the countdown timer. Click Cancel. Click OK.
The Force application termination option forces programs to quit even if the programs contain
unsaved data. If you do not use this option, programs that contain unsaved data do not quit and the
user is not logged off. It is a good idea to set your corporate policy to automatically save user
documents if you use the Force application termination option.
HOW TO: Force Users to Quit Programs and Log Off After a Period of Inactivity in Windows XP
Users - Copy
Create a new account using the name that you want to appear in the user profile, for example,
C:\Documents and Settings\newuser. Then logon to newuser and logoff. Now the newuser
account and profile folder
(C:\Documents and Settings\newuser) exist. Logon to an admin account that is NOT the admin
account you want to copy from. If you have to, create a third account to do this.
Then open the system control panel to the user profiles tab and copy the profile from
COMPUTERNAME/Administrator to COMPUTERNAME/newuser. Now logon to newuser and
check your files and settings.
Once you are sure that newuser is as you like it, you can delete the old account (unless it is the
Administrator account, then you should leave it alone for emergency use). You can also rename
newuser to whatever you want to appear on the Welcome Screen.
Utilities
Taskbar Repair Tool Plus!

Driver Agent - Scan your Computer for instant
driver updates!

Windows XP Startup Programs
Tracker
Windows XP Security Clear Recent
Console
Files List

AVG - Anti-Virus: Tough on Viruses, Easy on Users

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Set Quick Launch as Default for New Users,
etc.

Change Internet Time Update Interval

Spyware Removers
SUPERAntiSpyware is the most thorough scanner on the market. Our Multi-Dimensional
Scanning and Process Interrogation Technology will detect spyware that other products miss!
SUPERAntiSpyware will remove ALL the Spyware, NOT just the easy ones!
File Research Center - Free File and Process Information

NOTE: All other Tweaks, Tips, Regedits and Scripts can be found here.
Kelly's Tweaks and Fixes
Doug's Tweaks and Tips
Windows XP Tips and Tricks

~W,X,Y & Z~

Wallpaper (Folder) Background
Background for folders: To create a template folder with a background image, create a new folder
and customize it to create a hidden desktop.ini file inside. Edit the desktop.ini in the folder and
add two lines:
[{BE098140-A513-11D0-A3A4-00C04FD706EC}]
IconArea_Image=Background.bmp
Then create a hidden image file in the folder and name it "Background.bmp". This image can be
.bmp, .jpg, or .gif, but you will need to edit the image file extension in your desktop.ini file to
match the image file name.
Wallpaper - Desktop - Disable Changing
Allow Wallpaper/Background Changes - Disable
Manual: Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\ActiveDesktop
. NoChangingWallPaper
DWord value: 1 prevents changing wallpaper, 0 allows changes.
The same value can be created in the following Registry branch, to make the restriction machine
wide.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\ActiveDeskt
op

Wallpaper - Users
To modify the wallpaper for every new user added to the machine.. and has the added benefit of
showing up during log on:
HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop. In the right pane change to path to Wallpaper.
Change ScreenSaver Automatically in the Registry (Line 97)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Warez Links:
Watermark
How to Create a Fixed, Centered Watermark Using Cascading Style Sheets
WAV Files
Personalized email with a voice message: You can do these tasks using the Windows Sound
Recorder that's located in Start/Programs/Accessories/Entertainment and finally, Sound Recorder.
Use the buttons just like you would a tape recorder and save the file to wherever you want, and
then attach it to an email.

Specify the Wave File for Sound Notification
This tweak is used to specify the path and filename of the wave file to be played during an
application error if sound notification has been enabled. Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to
this key:
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\DrWatson]
Value Name: WaveFile
Data Type: REG_EXPAND_SZ (Expanded String Value)
Value Data: File Location
Create a new Expanded String value, or modify the existing value, called "WaveFile" and set it
according to the value data below.
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
To increase the maximum recording time in the Sound Recorder utility:
Make sure your microphone is muted so it will not pick up sound. Click Record, and then let
Sound Recorder run for 60 seconds.
After Sound Recorder stops recording, click Save As on the File menu, and name the file
Blank.wav.
To increase the maximum recording time in Sound Recorder, click Insert File on the Edit menu,
and then insert the Blank.wav file that you saved. When you do this, the maximum recording time
is increased by 60 seconds. You can repeat this step once for each additional minute of recording
time that you want to add. For example, for a 5-minute recording time, insert the Blank.wav file
five times.
Web-Bugs
A Web bug is a graphic on a Web page or in an e-mail message designed to monitor who is
reading the page or message. Web bugs are often invisible because they are typically only 1-by-1
pixels in size. In many cases, Web bugs are placed on Web pages by third parties interested in
collecting data about visitors to those pages. More information here.
Web Page - Update in IE
Would you like to know when a specific Web page was last updated? If you use Microsoft Internet
Explorer, you can easily determine when a page was updated last. Navigate to the page you want
to check and type into the Address Bar:
javascript:alert(document.lastModified) and press Enter. A dialog box will open display the date
and time of the last update.
Note that you must enter the line exactly as shown here.
Web - Shortcuts
Do you like to visit specific Web sites on a regular basis? To simplify your life, you can either
create Favorites within Explorer, or you can actually create a shortcut on your desktop that, when
clicked, takes you directly to the Web page you want to view. Here's how:
Open Explorer. Then open the Web page. Place the mouse in an area of the Web page with no

links or banners. Right-click that area and select Create Shortcut.
Now, when you're connected to the Web, simply click the new desktop icon, and it will bring up
Explorer and take you to your favorite Web site!
Web Sites
Can't Access Certain Websites (Suggestions and Checkpoints)
IE/Tools/Internet Options/Advanced and uncheck the option
to Enable third party browsing extensions, restart IE.
Go to Start/Run and type in: regsvr32 actxprxy.dll and regsvr32 shdocvw.dll. Then reboot.
Open Internet Options control panel to the Privacy tab and put one of these web sites in the
exception list.
Try putting the web site in the "Trusted Zone" and if this fixes the problem, you can begin to
diagnose cookie/script problems with that site and your Internet zone settings.
If you have more than one local number for dialup, remove the primary number that is dialing up
first and use the secondary dialup number. Clear the checkbox for "negotiate multilink for single
link connections" in the PPP settings.
A file in your Windows folder called 'hosts' (no extension) may have an incorrect IP address for
the page. To find out, open Windows Explorer, select your C:\Windows folder, and look in the
right pane for a hosts file.
If you can't find it in your Windows folder, this isn't your problem. If you do find a hosts file,
open it in Notepad and look for a line referring to the page that's giving you trouble. If it's there,
enter # at the beginning of the line. Save and exit the file.
Unable to Log on to Web Site or Gain Access to Some Web Sites
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q301/4/55.asp
PPPoE with ICS Requires MTU Setting Below 1492 on the ICS Clients
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q259/7/83.asp
Many people have reported solving the problem by using the RASPPPoE client instead of XP's.
Details at these sites:
http://www.wown.com/j_helmig/adslpoe2.htm
http://user.cs.tu-berlin.de/~normanb/
For DNS/Page Cannot Be Displayed: For most users this works:
Lan Settings - Proxy Server - Disable (Line 253)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual: IE/Tools/Internet Options/Connections/Lan Settings. Uncheck Use a proxy server.....
Rename your hosts file: Go to: Windows\System32\DRIVERS\etc.

Repair Loss of Internet Access/Certain Web Sites (155)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Page Cannot be Found and/or DNS/Server Error (Line 68)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
More information here:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_p.htm#pnf
Added info/articles:
Troubleshooting Problems Communicating on the Internet
Unable to Log on to Web Site or Gain Access to Some Web Sites
Windows XP Internet Programs Cannot Connect to the Internet Through Broadband Connection
Website Design and Maintenance
Create a website that fits your personal, family, or company profile.
Web Sites - Restrict Web Sites from Installing Software
StartPage Guard
IE-SPYAD: Restricted Sites List for Internet Explorer
http://www.staff.uiuc.edu/~ehowes/resource.htm#IESPYAD
These restrictions allow you to block unwanted web sites from downloading software onto your
system. This can be useful in disabling the installation of some common "cursor" programs.
Start/Run/Regedit
Create a new sub-key for each site you want to block, naming it based on the top-level domain for
the site. For example to block www.spam.com you would create a new sub-key called:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\InternetSettings\
ZoneMap\Domains
\spam.com. Under the sub-key create a new DWORD value called "*" and set it to equal "4".
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet
Settings\ZoneMap\Domains
Value Name: *
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (4 = restricted)
Restart Internet Explorer for the change to take effect.
Note: This setting can also be applied on a user-by-user basis by modifying the same key under
the HKEY_CURRENT_USER hive.
Web Sites - Who is linking to yours?

Google and AltaVista: type: link:www.yourwebsite.com
AOL, HotBot, iWon and MSN: type: linkdomain:www.yourwebsite.com
AllTheWeb: type: link.all:www.yourwebsite.com
Web Surfing
Tools for Power Searching - Search Bootmarklets
Web Tab - Missing
Restore the Web Tab - Display Properties (Line 177)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Active Desktop - Enable/Disable (Line 16)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Webhelper1
Checkpoints: Try each step until the situation is resolved.
1. IE/Tools/Internet Options/Advanced and uncheck the option to Enable third party browsing
extensions, restart IE.
2. Go to Start/Run/cmd and type in: regsvr32 /u iehelper.dll
3. Go to Start/Run/Regedit and delete this key:
HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\BrowserHelperObjects\
{00000000-5eb9-11d5-9d45-009027c14662}
4. Go to Start/Search and type in: IEHelper.dll
If found, rename IEHelper.dll file to IEHelper.old
Welcome Screen
Hide User or Add User on the Welcome Screen (Line 22)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Enable/Disable Administrator on the Welcome Screen (Line 5)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Add ControlUserPasswords2 To Control Panel (Line 1)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual Steps:
Control Panel/Users/Change the Way Users Logon/Welcome Screen or... Start/Run/Regedit Key
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\ CurrentVersion\Winlogon]
Value Name: LogonType Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value) Value Data: (0 = Classic
Mode, 1 = Welcome Screen) Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called
'LogonType' and edit the value according to the settings below. Reboot.

More information and options here:
A User Logon Request Is Rejected Without Any Messages
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=313322
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_wel_screen.htm
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/win_xp_logon.htm
Welcome Screen Old Style
Change the Login Window to W2K Style This setting controls which type of logon screen is shown, either the classic Windows NT/2000
format or the Windows XP welcome screen.
Start/Run/Regedit
Key: [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\
CurrentVersion\Winlogon]
Value Name: LogonType
Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)
Value Data: (0 = Classic Mode, 1 = Welcome Screen)
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'LogonType' and edit the value
according to the settings below.
Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Note: Using the classic logon method will also disable the use of fast user switching, where
applications remain active in other users sessions.
Tip: Clear Last User on W2K Style Boot Screen
Welcome Screen - Colors
Select theme and color scheme for welcome screen
With this tweak you will be able to modify which color selection of the default theme is shown
when the computer start up screen is displayed. Currently since there is only one theme you can
only change the color scheme for the theme but in the future when more themes are available for
XP you will be able to change which theme is used in the same place in the windows registry.
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
Navigate to
HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ThemeManager
Locate the key NormalColor
Right Click on it and select modify.
Change where it says "NormalColor" to "Metallic"
Click Ok, and exit regedit
Restart

Note: To go back to the old color scheme durring startup just change "Metallic" back to
"NormalColor" Once more themes are released you will be able to modify the DllName key to
select different themes.
Welcome Screen - Hide
This setting hides the welcome screen that is normally displayed each time the user logs on to
Windows XP Professional. Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer.
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called 'NoWelcomeScreen' and edit
the value according to the settings (0 = default, 1 = hide). Exit your registry, you may need to
restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Note: Users can still display the welcome screen by selecting it on the Start menu or by typing
"Welcome" in the
Run dialog box.
Welcome Screen User Pictures
Default Pictures are stored here:
Windows Explorer\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Microsoft\User Account
Pictures\Default Pictures
Restore User Default Pictures (Line 58)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
HOW TO: Add or Change a User's Picture in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q292434
How to Add a Specific Picture
Find a picture you are interested in using and use Save As to download and/or move the picture in
question to your My Pictures Folder. Then go to User Account/Change my picture/Browse for
more pictures/My Pictures Folder/Choose the picture you want to use, then click Open.
Summary of an image is 48x48/71 dpi, depth 24.
Note: If you have disabled Picture and Fax Viewer by using regsvr32 /u shimgvw.dll, you will not
be able to change the picture.
To restore, go to Start/Run and type in: regsvr32 shimgvw.dll
User Picture is Missing on Start Menu: It's only there if you are using XP themes. If using classic
there is no picture.
Wheel Mouse - Navigating Internet Explorer With A Wheel Mouse
If you hold down the Shift key while you move the wheel on your super new wheel mouse,
Internet Explorer will navigate backward and forward through visited pages. Just like clicking the

Back and Forward buttons, or holding down the Alt key while you click the left or right keypad
arrows.
White Space
When making a post and someone urges for white space, it means:
That you should repost your question, clearly and concisely, using paragraph breaks or numbered
points. As it stands for the those who do not include white space, it reads like a stream-of-aconsciousness novelette and most people, myself included, will glance over it and not bother to
wade throught it.
You want to make it easy for people to help you. Here are some links to help you make a good
newsgroup post:
http://www.dts-l.org/goodpost.htm
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html
People like myself and others, who help out in various groups every day go through those groups
quickly. We tend to skip over posts with subjects like "help" or "problem" and if we do look at one
of those, if the question is written as one long page with no breaks, we often move on.
These comments are not meant to hurt your feelings - they are meant to help you maximize your
chances of getting an answer.
MS-MVP Malke
Win32 Application Errors - Possibilities for the Win32 application error:
1. Run a virus check.
2. Your program or download may be corrupted and the "exe" cannot be run. Remove or rename
the current "exe" and try to redownload, re-install the program.
3. It it is a game, this article may help:
Games: Error Message: Not a Valid Win32 Application
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q315589
4. If it is a dos-based program, you are probably not running it from a command prompt.
Win32.DlDer
D1Der.exe was installed in November and December 2001 as an added component called
"ClickTillUWin" with LimeWire, KaZaa, Grokster, Net2Phone, BonziBUDDY, and some other
person-to-person file-sharing software programs. The trojan program was installed even if you
selected not to install any additional components from those packages during setup. Most software
packages no longer contain DlDer. Description of the Win32.DlDer Spyware Trojan Program
Winamp3
Winamp3 May Cause an Error Message in Windows XP

Window Refresh - Automatically
Folders blink and/or icons flash, run the edit here on line 157: http://www.kellys-kornerxp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Enable Refresh, run the edit on line 199: http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual Checkpoints:
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Update. Value Name:
UpdateMode, Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value), Value Data: default = 1. Create a new
DWORD value, or modify the existing value, named "UpdateMode" and set it to equal "0" for
faster updates. Restart Windows for the change to take effect.
Windows for Dummies
Windows XP Resource Center for Dummies
Windows Explorer
Explorer.exe Process Uses Many CPU Cycles When Windows Is Idle
http://support.microsoft.com/?scid=kb;EN-US;q317751
Windows Explorer May Stop Responding When You Close a Window
Windows File Protection
About Windows File Protection
Windows Installer Issues
Run the edit on line 94: http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm and/or:
Go to Start/Run and type in:
msiexec /unregister [click ok]
Then Start/Run and type in:
msiexec /regserver [click ok]
If neither of the above has helped: Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\MSIServer
Does the image path in the right pane correctly point to: (modify drive letter as needed)
C:\Windows\System32\Msiexec.exe /V
If not: boot into safe mode and then go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: msiexec.exe
Once done and while still there type in: msiexec /regserver
Check the image path again, if it is now present, reboot.

The Windows Installer Service Could Not Be Accessed" Error Message When You Add or
Remove Program
Error Message: The Windows Installer Service could not be accessed. This can occur if you are
running Windows in safe
mode, or if the Windows Installer is not correctly installed. Contact your support personnel for
assistance. Line 94.
Another note is, if you are running DirectX 9, many users are having this same issue. It seems to
be prevelent to certain graphics cards and the dxdiag tool, doesn't help.
The only workaround so far is to uninstall DirectX 9. If this is your case and an option you are
willing to try...
I have the download for the uninstaller listed on my site. The only modification to be made is to
extracte the zip file to C:\DXTEMP and
not C:\DXTEMP! as per the readme. Also, run it only in safe mode.
Uninstall DirectX 9 (Line 112)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Added info:
Windows Installer can use logging to help assist in troubleshooting issues with installing software
packages. To enable verbose logging apply this edit:
Windows Installer Logging or Cleanup Utility (Line 84)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Windows Installer will store the logs in the TEMP directory. The filename is random, but begins
with the letters "Msi" and end with a .log extension.
Windows Installer CleanUp Utility (Office Products)
http://download.microsoft.com/download/office2000pro/util20/1/NT4/EN-US/msicuu.exe
Troubleshooting Windows Installer
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_w.htm#xp_wininstaller
"Error 1719. The Windows Installer Service Could Not Be Accessed" Error Message When You
Add or Remove Program
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q315346
Windows Installer Cleanup Utility
http://download.microsoft.com/download/office2000pro/util20/1/NT4/EN-US/msicuu.exe
Run Windows Installer Clean Up, select the application which pops up with the Windows
Installer, and click Remove.
Windows Installer - Remote Administration
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Installer]

Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called "EnableAdminTSRemote" and
set it according to the value data below. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of
Windows for the change to take effect.
Note: This setting affects system administrators only. Other users cannot install programs
remotely
Windows Installer - Disable
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Installer]
Create a new DWORD value, or modify the existing value, called "DisableMSI" and set it
according to (0 = default, 1 = admin only, 2 = disabled). Exit your registry, you may need to
restart or log out of Windows for the change to take effect.
Windows Installer Logging
Windows Installer can use logging to help assist in troubleshooting issues with installing software
packages. You can enable verbose logging with this setting. Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate
to this key:
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Installer]
Create a new string value called "Logging" and set it to a combination of the letters below to
enable the logging options. A value of "voicewarmup" will enable all the logging options.
Letter
Option
v Verbose output
o Out-of-disk-space messages
i Status messages
c Initial UI parameters
e All error messages
w Non-fatal
warnings
a Sta
rt
up
of
acti
ons
r Act
ion
spe
cifi
c
rec
ord
s

m Out
-ofme
mo
ry
or
fata
l
exit
inf
or
mat
ion
u Us
er
req
ues
ts
p Ter
mi
nal
pro
per
ties
+ Append to existing file
! Flush each
line to the
log
The next time Windows Installer is used a log will be created.
Note: Windows Installer will store the logs in the TEMP directory. The filename is random, but
begins with the letters "Msi" and end with a .log extension.
Windows Key - Commands
Windows: Display the Start menu
Windows + D: Minimize or restore all windows
Windows + E: Display Windows Explorer
Windows + F: Display Search for files
Windows + Ctrl + F: Display Search for computer
Windows + F1: Display Help and Support Center
Windows + R: Display Run dialog box
Windows + break: Display System Properties dialog box
Windows + shift + M: Undo minimize all windows
Windows + L: Lock the workstation
Windows + U: Open Utility Manager

Windows Key - Disable the Windows Key
Start/Run/Regedit
Create a new Binary value, or modify the existing value, called 'Scancode Map' and edit the value
according to the settings below.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\
Keyboard Layout. Value Name: Scancode Map, Data Type: REG_BINARY (Binary Value), Value
Data: 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 03 00 00 00 00 00 5B E0 00 00 5C E0 00 00 00 00
A REG (Registry) file that will make this change for you can be downloaded here. Save the file to
your hard drive and double click it. Answer yes to the import prompt. REG files can be viewed in
Notepad by right clicking the file and selecting Edit.
Windows Logo Key - Disable
Go to: Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Keyboard Layout
Create a new Binary value, or modify the existing value, called 'Scancode Map' and edit the value
according to
Value Data: 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 03 00 00 00 00 00 5B E0 00 00 5C E0 00 00 00 00
To disable or re-enable the Windows Key
Windows Logon and Security Dialog Title
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\ CurrentVersion\Winlogon.
Create a new String value, or modify the existing value, called 'Welcome' and edit the value
according to the settings below. Exit your registry, you may need to restart or log out of Windows
for the change to take effect.
Windows Management Instrumentation - WinMgmt could not initialize the core parts
Go to Start/Run/CMD and then run each of these hitting enter after each:
winmgmt /clearadap
winmgmt /kill
winmgmt /unregserver
winmgmt /regserver
winmgmt /resyncperf
This may or may not repair the repository but will re-install wmi into the registry.
For this error: "Help and Support" Does Not Collect All Hardware Information
Go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: net stop winmgmt. Then delete
the %windir&\system32\wbem\repository directory. Once done go back to Start/Run/CMD and
type in: net start winmgmt

Windows Media Player - Digital Playback
Your digital playback setting in Windows XP Device Manager is inconsistent with Windows
Media Player?
Windows Media Player in Windows XP sets the CD audio properties for digital playback as the
default. Device Manager indicates that digital playback is NOT enabled on your CD-ROM? The
Windows Media Player settings override the Device Manager settings.
To enable or disable digital playback in Windows Media Player:
1. Press Options on the Tools menu.
2. Select the Devices tab.
3. Select your CD-ROM drive and press Properties.
4. Make the selections you want for playback.
5. Press OK and OK.
Troubleshooting Playback in Media Player for Windows XP MS-KB Article
Troubleshooting with Windows Media Player Error Code Page
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_resources.htm
Checkpoint: Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/File Types/Audio
CD/Advanced/Edit/Application used:
"C:\Program Files\Windows Media Player\wmplayer.exe" /prefetch:3
/device:AudioCD "%L"
Windows Media Player - Change/Remove 3rd Party Branding
Close Media Player. Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT Go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\WindowsMediaPlayer
Right click in the right pane and select New, String value. Name the value TitleBar. Double click
the value you just created and enter the text you want to appear on the Title Bar. Value Name:
TitleBar, Data Type: REG_SZ (String Value). Create a new string value called "TitleBar" and set it
to the text you would like display in the title. Restart Media Player for the change the take effect.
If you want to get rid of the branding entirely, right click on the TitleBar value and select Delete.
Windows Media Player - Clear Recent Files List
To clear the Recent Files list in Windows Media Player, close Media Player and click Start, Run
and enter REGEDIT. Go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\Player\RecentFileList
Right click on the RecentFileList sub-key and select Delete. A small VB Script which will do this
for you is available here. Download the VBS file and save it. Double click the file you just
saved. This Registry key will be recreated the next time you open a file in Media Player.
Windows Media Player - Disable Recent File List
Clear Recent File Lists (Media Player and Prevent List)

http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/ClearRecent.Exe
Disable and/or Clear Media Players Play List (Line 11)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
To change it manually - Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\Player\RecentFileList
Delete RecentFileList, or manually remove them in the right pane.
NOTE: This registry key is re-created the next time you open a file in Media Player.
To Keep Media Player from maintaining the Recent Files List.
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\Preferences
Create a new Binary value, or modify the existing value, called "AddToMRU". Double click this
item and set the value to 00 (two zeros)
Disable Media Player Play List - VBS Script
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Clear MRU and Disable
http://www.nwlink.com/~zachd/pss/pss.html#mru
Added Tips and Workarounds:
Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00
[-HKEY_USERS\Default\Software\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\Player\RecentFileList]
[-HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\Player\RecentFileList]
In the reg key noted above, replace (Default) with the user name you use to log into Windows.
Save the file as "noplay.reg". Note the path where you saved the file (for example, C:\My
Documents\Registry Fixes\noplay.reg).
You then add the noplay.reg file to your Startup folder. Whenever you start Windows, the
Windows Media Player history will clear. Here's how you add the
file to the Startup folder:
Click on the Start menu, point to Settings, and select Taskbar.
Click on the Start Menu Programs tab.
Click on the Add button.
In the Command line box, type, "regedit /s" and then the path to the
noplay.reg file (for example, regedit /s C:\My Documents\Registry
Hacks\noplay.reg).
Click on Next.
Find the Startup folder and double-click it.
Click Finish.
Remember, if you put it in your StartUp, it will clear only when your machine boots. That means

if you use WMP and don't reboot, it will not clear the
history. In that case, just run the batch file manually.
The Recent Files list in Windows Media Player 8 can be disabled. Click Start, Run and enter
REGEDIT. Go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\MediaPlayer\Preferences
Right click in the right pane and select New, Binary value and add a new value called
AddToMRU. Double click the entry you just created and set the value to 00. For your
convenience, you can download a REG file or a VB Script file that will make this change for you.
Download the REG or VBS file and double click it. For REG files, answer yes to the import
prompt. Either file can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on the file and selecting Edit.
Delete/Repair the Windows Media Player Library
If you have moved your music around on your hard drives, Windows Media Player continues to
add new entries into it's library instead of modifying the existing ones. This means that you will
now have multiple entries for the same song, half of which will not work now because you have
moved the files to their new location. To delete the current library and build a new one, do the
following:
1. Close Windows Media Player, wait about 3 seconds for the database to close.
2. Using "My Computer", navigate to the following folder:
Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Microsoft\Media Index
3. Delete the "wmplibrary....db" file here. This is not your actual music, only the database which
Windows Media Player uses as a listing.
4. Start Windows Media Player
5. Hit "F3" and enter the location where you have moved your music to. If it is on muliple drives,
check "All Drives". Let it finish.
Windows Media Player - Disable Update Message
Error Message: Windows Media Player Is Not Configured for the Internet
When you first run Windows Media Player and use the Media Guide feature, you may receive the
following error message:
Windows Media Player is not configured for the Internet. Before you can use the Media Guide or
Radio Tuner features, you must be connected to the internet. To connect to the Internet, run the
Internet Connection Wizard and try again.
This may occur even if your computer is connected to, or is preconfigured to connect to the
Internet. To resolve this behavior, quit Windows Media Player and then run the Internet
Connection Wizard.
Windows Messenger

Messenger: Disable, Remove and Troubleshooting
Windows XP Pro - Install
Troubleshooting the Install of Windows Pro
Setup and Conflict Issues
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_setup.htm
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_conflicts.htm
Windows Product Activation - Troubleshooting
Blank Activate Windows Page in the WPA Wizard
Windows Product Activation - Explained
Windows XP will typically remind you to activate the product (most users will have 30 days to
activate XP after installation).
To activate XP manually, you can use the Start menu shortcut in the System Tools Accessories
folder. At the command prompt, type: oobe/msoobe /a or Start/All Programs/Accessories/System
Tools/Activate Windows.
Tip: msoobe stands for "Microsoft Out of Box Experience."
Windows Product Activation Explained - by MVP Alex Nichol
Windows Update
Registry Edits and Workarounds listed here: Why can't I download updates?
Access Denied: Error Message
Network policy settings prevent you from using Windows Update to download and install updates
on your computer. If you believe you have received this message in error, please check with your
system administrator.
For Windows XP Pro:
Start/Run/gpedit.msc. User Configuration/Administrative Templates/Windows
Components/Windows Update. In the right pane, double click, Remove access to all Windows
Update Features and set it to disabled.
For Windows XP Home Edition:
Start/Run/Regedit
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\WindowsUpda
te
Locate the value in the right pane called DisableWindowsUpdateAccess. Double click this entry
and change the value to 0 (zero) or right click it and select Delete.

If editing the Registry manually isn't to your liking click here for a small Visual Basic Script that
will make the change for you.
Access Denied: Error Message
Network policy settings prevent you from using Windows Update to download and install updates
on your computer. If you believe you have received this message in error, please check with your
system administrator.
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Dword value: NoWindowsUpdate
Gives the same error as
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\WindowsUpda
te\
DisableWindowsUpdateAccess
Double click this entry and change the value to 0 (zero) or right click it and select Delete.
If editing the Registry manually isn't to your liking click here for a small Visual Basic Script that
will make the change for you.
Windows Update - Administrators Only
Administrators Only -To install items from Windows Update, you must be logged on as an
administrator or a member of the Administrators group. If your computer is connected to a
network, network policy settings may also prevent you from completing this procedure.
"Administrators Only" Error Message When You Attempt to Use the Windows Update Site
(Q316524)
Windows Update - Cannot Display Page
Delete your Temporary Internet Files and History, then delete the configuration files from the
WindowsUpdate folder. Then add Windows Update to the Trusted Zones Site. Steps for each of
these tasks are listed below.
Click Tools, click Internet Options, and then click the General Tab. In the Temporary Internet
Files section, click Delete Files. Also in the Temporary Internet Files section, click Settings and
then click View Objects. Right-click the Update Class file, click Remove, and then click Yes to
confirm.
Security settings in Internet Explorer must be set to Medium or lower for ActiveX files to
correctly pass to your computer. Only the Web sites listed in Internet Explorer's Trusted Sites
Zone will be affected by the lowering of Security settings. Your current security settings for all
other Web sites will remain as they are currently configured.
From the main toolbar in Internet Explorer, click Tools, and then click Internet Options.
Click Security.
Click Trusted Sites Zone.

Click Sites.
Click "Require server verification (https:) for all sites in this zone" to clear the selection.
In the "Add this Web site to the zone:" field, type http://*.microsoft.com and then click Add.
Click OK.
Click Custom Level and select Enable for the following items:
Download signed ActiveX controls.
Download unsigned ActiveX controls.
Initialize and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe.
Run ActiveX controls and plug-ins.
Script ActiveX controls marked safe for scripting.
Click OK, and then click OK again to exit Internet Properties.
If you continue to receive the Cannot Display Page error, disable any antivirus software or
Internet filter software which may interfere with the download of the Windows Update control.
For additional troubleshooting steps, see:
241783 WINUP-Errors Using Windows Update Through a Proxy Server or Firewall
241234 WINUP-Third Party Products That Conflict with Windows Update
Windows Update - Issues
There are various solutions being put forth for the failed update result.
Option 1) Click Start, Run and enter SERVICES.MSC Go to Cryptographic Services and double
click it. It should be set to Automatic and should be Started. If you were required to change this,
try the Windows Update site again.
Option 2) Click Start, Run and enter REGEDIT Go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\WindowsUpda
te
If the key WindowsUpdate does not exist, create it by right clicking on the Policies sub-key and
selecting New, Key and giving the new key the name WindowsUpdate.
Within this key, you may see one or both of the following DWORD entries:
NoWindowsUpdate and/or DisableWindowsUpdateAccess
If either of these entries appear, change their values to zero by double clicking on them and setting
the value to 0 (zero). If they do not appear, add them as DWORD entries with their values at zero.
To create a new value, right click in the right pane and select New, DWord value and name it as
indicated.
Next, go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
you may see the entry NoWindowsUpdate. If it exists, it may be set to 1. To change this, double
click the NoWindowsUpdate value and set it to 0 (zero). If it does not exist, right click in the right
pane and select New, DWord value. Give it the name NoWindowsUpdate and leave the value at 0.

Next, go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE \SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\WindowsUpdate
Right-click on the WindowsUpdate folder, click on Permissions. Give Admin (and/or System)
Full Control and Read permissions by checking the allow boxes. Close Regedit and reboot. Try
the Windows Update site again.
To get the updates to re-appear and/or to be listed as available again. Go to Start/Run/CMD and
type in:
del /q "%SystemRoot%\System32\Catroot2\Edb.log. Then try again.
Can't download any updates and/or you receive an error message:
Go to Start/Run and type in: regsvr32 wintrust.dll. If that doesn't help: Go to Start/Run and type
in CMD. At the command prompt, type the following commands, pressing ENTER after each
line:
net stop cryptsvc
ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 oldcatroot2
net start cryptsvc
Then try the install again.
Another issue: When you use the Windows Update scan feature, the scan quickly reaches 100%,
and then displays the "There are no updates available at this time" message. To correct this:
Verify that your computer's date and time are accurate and that the Internet Explorer language
option is not empty.
To check the language setting in Internet Explorer:
1. Click "Tools" and then choose "Internet Options"
2. Click the "Languages" button
3. Make sure at least one language is listed in the "Language Options" dialog.
Windows Update Site Lists Updates That You Already Installed
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;Q319109
Troubleshooting Windows Update Issues
http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/troubleshoot/
Errors Occur When You Try to Install Updates from the Windows Update Web Site
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=817753
Troubleshooting Windows Update Issues:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_u.htm#update
Windows Update Restriction Error (Network) Line 28
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

Windows Update Greyed Out - Restore (Line 179)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Windows Update - Run Windows Update Manually
Select Start, All Programs, Windows Update and if you aren't online already, you'll be prompted to
make a connection. At the Welcome to Windows Update screen, click Scan for Updates. When the
scan is finished, available updates appear by category on the left side of the screen. One at a time,
select a category and click the Add or Remove button next to each update, depending on whether
you want to add it to the list of updates to be installed. When you're finished, click Review and
install updates, then click the Install Now button.
Winhelp32
After installing SP1 for some users the correct version of win32hlp.exe is not properly placed in
the System32 folder. If this is the case replace the older version with the version found in
windows\ServicePackFiles\i386. Or you can download it here:
Restore winhelp32.exe for XP or XPSP1 (Line 57)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Manual Edit:
1. Insert the Windows XP installation CD into your CD-ROM.
2. Browse to your CD-ROM and change the folder to \I386
3. Copy the following files into a temporary folder on your hard disk:
Winhlp32.cn_
Winhlp32.ex_
Winhlp32.hl_
4. Click Start->Run, type "CMD" without the quotation marks and then press Enter.
5. Change to the temporary folder where you stored the Winhlp32 files.
6. Type the following commands:
EXPAND WINHLP32.CN_ WINHLP32.CNT
EXPAND WINHLP32.EX_ WINHLP32.EXE
EXPAND WINHLP32.HL_ WINHLP32.HLP
7. Copy Winhlp32.exe to your \%SYSTEMROOT%\ folder.
8. Copy the Winhlp32.cnt, and Winhlp32.hlp to the \%SYSTEMROOT%\Help\folder.
9. Typically this folder is C:\Windows.
10. Delete the contents of your temporary folder.
Winipconfig - What happened to WINIPCFG.EXE?
WINIPCFG.EXE is a GUI application in Windows 9x/Me that lets you check the status of your
network connections. Because Windows XP was designed for networking from the ground up,
however, and supports far more network connections, something a little more elegant was
required.
So Windows XP has two replacements for WINIPCFG.EXE. The first is ipconfig.exe, a command

line application that supplies the same information, via text interface. The second is a much more
elegant (GUI) interface that is individual to each network connection: Just right-click (or doubleclick) each network connectoid to make configuration changes and check their status.
For XP: Open a Command Prompt window and enter IPCONFIG /ALL
The Windows 2000 version of WINIPCFG (WNTIPCFG.EXE) can be downloaded here.
Or...
Lists the IP Address(es) for your computer
This VB Script will determine the IP Address(es) available on your computer and display them,
along with the hostname associated with that IP Address. Download the Find IP.vbs file and save
it to your hard drive (you may want to right click and use Save Target As). Double-click the Find
IP.vbs file. A dialog will open listing the available IP Address(es) and the corresponding
hostname. http://www.dougknox.com/dbknox/utility/scripts_desc/find_ip.vbs
Wink
Is a part of WinKlez -- the random name beginning with Wink. See:
http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/[email protected] and similar.
WinK32
The behavior may occur if the win32k.sys is corrupted. Go to
C:\WINDOWS\System32 and rename the Win32k.sys file to Win32k.old and then close the
window. Now go back to the system32 folder and you will have a new and non-corrupt
Win32k.sys file.
The behavior also may be caused by that the virtual memory of the Windows XP is corrupted.
Disable and then enable the Virtual Memory to see whether it solved the problem.
To disable Virtual memory:
1. Right click My Computer and choose properties
2. Click the Advanced tab
3. Under Performance click settings.
4. Click the Advanced tab.
5. Under Virtual memory click change
6. Click no paging file
7. Click OK
8. Restart the computer
To enable Virtual memory:
1. Right click My Computer and choose properties
2. Click the Advanced tab
3. Under Performance click settings.
4. Click the Advanced tab.
5. Under Virtual memory click change
6. Click System Managed Size

7. Click OK
8. Restart the computer
WinMgmt - Could not initialize the core parts
Run winmgmt/? for some info.
You could try these commands from the command line. (in the correct order-pressing enter after
each)
Go to Start/Run and type in: CMD, then Winmgmt/? for information.
Go to Start/Run/CMD and then run each of these hitting enter after each:
winmgmt /clearadap
winmgmt /kill
winmgmt /unregserver
winmgmt /regserver
winmgmt /resyncperf
This may or may not repair the repository but will re-install wmi into the registry.
Go to Start/Run/CMD and type in: net stop winmgmt. Then delete
the %windir&\system32\wbem\repository directory. Once done go back to Start/Run/CMD and
type in: net start winmgmt
"Help and Support " Does Not Collect All Hardware Information
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q307/7/33.asp
If that doesn't help, try this:
Open a Command Prompt and type "winmgmt /clearadap" to clear prior WMI/resyncperf
information from the registry.
Then type "winmgmt /resyncperf" to register the system performance libraries with WMI again.
If this doesn't help, try posting to this group: microsoft.public.windowsxp.wmi
Winsta.dll fix
Boot into Safe Mode
Go to Start/Run and type in: inf
Scroll down to sr.inf, right click and choose install.
Reboot.
Wish: Make a wish post to Microsoft
How to Contact the Microsoft Wish Program
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;114491
Wjview
"WJView error Could not execute main" error message when you start your Windows XP-based
computer
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=831427

Wjview: Remove the runkey from here: To do so, go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this
key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Current Version\Run
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\Current Version\Run
To verify your version, go to Start/Run and type in: wjview
MS JVM Version 3809: http://tinyurl.com/fwvu
MS JVM Version 3810: http://tinyurl.com/fwty
Once 3809 is installed you can get the Update 3810 - 816093: http://support.microsoft.com/?
kbid=816093
WMI
WMIPRVSE hosts the provider that sends your events on WinXP. On WinXP providers are out of
process from the actual WMI service. You can specify the wbemConnectFlagUseMaxWait which
will cause the timeout to be 2 minutes instead of the default DCOM one which is up to 20
minutes. What may help is to ping the remote machine first before attempting a ConnectServer.
WMI relies on DCOM for remoting which in turn uses RPC which then uses TCP/IP, so there
could be several reasons why it isn't connecting initially. This is a known issue. Basically, when
the provider calls MSI, it doesn't necessarily cancel the initial request and attempts to finish it so
wmiprvse.exe will still show cpu usage.
To correct permission issues:
1 - In the Management Console\Services STOP WMI and set to manual.
2 - Go to the WMI repository %Windows%system32%wbem and delete the repository.
3 -Set the WMI service back to Automatic
4 - From %Windows%system32%wbem run "wbemtest" and connect to your namespace.
5 - Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to: Locate current
HKEY_CURRENT_CONFIG\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class. Open the class key and
right click on the sub key 0000 and select permissions and make sure that the permissions for you
[administrator] are "Full".
Word 2000-2002
MouseTrax File Cataloger v1.0 [156k]
http://www.mousetrax.com/Downloads.html
Word - Misc.
The "...document is already open, do you want to make a copy message" only occurs in this case
when a document is opened via association (i.e., through Explorer, or Recently Opened
Documents) and doesn't happen if Word is
already open (for example, if you open a document through Word, File - Open; or by association
with Word already running).
For Word: Go to Start/Run and type in: windword /r

For Excel: Go to Start/Run and type in: excel /regserver
For PowerPoint: Start/Run and type in: powerpnt /regserver
For Access:Go to Start/Run and type in: msaccess /regserver
Word - MRU
When you open MS Word and click save; Save as window open, and on the file name field, if you
click arrow down, you will see history of saved
documents, how do you clear that? Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key and delete
accordingly:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\10.0\Common\Open Find\Microsoft
Word\Settings\Save As\File Name MRU
Wordpad as HTML Editor
Add a new action via the Windows Explorer View menu's Folder Options. This puts an Edit with
WordPad option on the Context menu for any .htm (or .html) file. Start/Run/Regedit and go to:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\.htm\OpenWithList\NOTEPAD.EXE
Rename the NOTEPAD.EXE subkey as WORDPAD.EXE. Or if you want to retain the Notepad
option, add a new WORDPAD.EXE subkey beneath the OpenWithList key.
Check for the following key structure and add it as shown if it does not already exist:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Applications\WORDPAD.EXE\shell\edit\command
(Default) "C:\Program Files\Accessories\WORDPAD.EXE" "%1"
On the IE Tools menu, select Internet Options, click on the Programs tab and then on the downarrow in the HTML editor box. Select WordPad, click on the OK button. The browser's Edit
button should now launch WordPad as your default HTML editor, with other edit options
available via its own down-arrow.
Wordpad - Add to New Context Menu
Create a blank document in Wordpad and Save it. Run TweakUI for XP and go to the Templates
tab. Select Create. Point the file dialog to the file you just saved. Click Apply. It will be listed as
Rich Text Format in the Templates list.
To change the item Rich Text Format in the Templates list, open Regedit and go to:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Word.RTF.8. Change the default value to Wordpad Document (default
is Rich Text Format). A REG (Registry) file that will make this change for you can be
downloaded here. Save the file to your hard drive, then double click the file. Answer yes to the
import prompt. REG files can be viewed in Notepad by right clicking on them and selecting Edit.
Worm Removal Scripts
W32.Blaster.Worm
W32.Randex.E Worm
W32.Sobig.F. Worm

Zip Drive - Write Cache Disabled - Possible Causes of the Error Message
Intel Application Accelerator
Zip Drive
Controller Cards
Check your settings here: Right click your C drive: Properties/Hardware/Properties/Policies"write cache enabled"
Also in the BIOS.
XP Tech Downloads
NT/2000/XP Tech Downloads
Yahoo!
OLEXP: How to Configure Outlook Express for Use with a Yahoo! POP3 Account
Zip Files - Confirm after Download is Missing
Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/File Types/[File Type in Question]/Advanced. Put a
check in the box that reads: Confirm open after download.
Enable Always Ask Before Opening... (Line 164)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
This problem may be caused by this registry settings. Start/Run/Regedit
When you first choose to download a file in Internet Explorer, you receive a Confirm File Open
dialog box. The "Always ask before opening this type of file" check box in this dialog box is
selected.
If you clear the "Always ask before opening this type of file" check box, the registry entry for this
setting is changed and you do not see the Confirm File Open dialog box in subsequent download
sessions. Instead, Internet Explorer automatically opens files instead of downloading them.
To resolve this problem, enable the "Always ask before opening this type of file" option. To do so,
go to Start/Run/Regedit and modify the third octet for the EditFlags value in the
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\exefile value from 01 to 00.
Zip Files and Extensions
Go to Window Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/File Types/Scroll down to Zip (If it doesn't exist,
create it). Highlight it, click Edit, place a check mark in the box that reads confirm after
download. Also Edit the Open Command to re-associate it with the program that you are using to
extract Zip files.
Alternatively you can locate a zip file, hold down the shift key, open with and choose from the
list.
Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\.zip

In the right pane, double click PerceivedType and change it to: compressed
If that still doesn't restore the function, use this edit:
Restore Compressed Zipped Folders Assoc./Functionality (Line 85)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Zip Folders - Verify Settings
Windows Explorer/Tools/Folder Options/File Types/.zip/Advanced/Edit
"Application used to perform action":
rundll32.exe zipfldr.dll,RouteTheCall %L
"Use DDE" is checked
"DDE Message:"
[ViewFolder("%l", %I, %S)]
"Application:"
Folders
"DDE Application Not running:"
[]
"Topic:"
AppProperties
Tip: To view contents of zip files, readme's, scripts, reg files without opening:
Download both executes on line 90
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Zip Folders - To disable ZIP files being shown as folders
Click Start/Run, enter the string below, and click OK: regsvr32 /u zipfldr.dll
You should receive a dialog that says "DllUnregisterServer in zipfldr.dll succeeded." To restore
the default behavior, simply do the same with this string: regsvr32 zipfldr.dll
Tip: Stop Search from Scanning ZIP files: Un-register the zip and cab file dlls, then reregister
them after that.
Before Search:
regsvr32 /u zipfldr.dll
regsvr32 /u cabview.dll
After Search:
regsvr32 cabview.dll
regsvr32 zipfldr.dll

Zone Settings
Privacy/cookie settings:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\InternetSettings\P3P\Hi
story
Restricted sites here:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\InternetSettings\ZoneM
ap\Domains