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\WindowsUpdate

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.htmAcdseeAcdsee.exe May Cause an Error MessageActivation - Troubleshooting Blank Activate Windows Page in the WPA WizardService Pack 1 Changes to Product ActivationWindows 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 DesktopActive 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: ForceActiveDesktopOnData 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: NoSetActiveDesktopData 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: NoActiveDesktopChangesData 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\ActiveDesktop]System Key: [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\ActiveDesktop]Data Type: REG_DWORD (DWORD Value)Value Data: (0 = disable restriction, 1 = enable restriction)

Active PartitionThe Computer Does Not Start After You Change the Active Partition by Using the Disk Management ToolAd 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 RemoveHide 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 MS04-015http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;842253Add 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 FilesWindows 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,,4WBEM=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,wbemoc.inf,hide,7Display=desk.cpl,DisplayOcSetupProc,,7Fax=fxsocm.dll,FaxOcmSetupProc,fxsocm.inf,,7NetOC=netoc.dll,NetOcSetupProc,netoc.inf,,7iis=iis.dll,OcEntry,iis.inf,,7com=comsetup.dll,OcEntry,comnt5.inf,hide,7dtc=msdtcstp.dll,OcEntry,dtcnt5.inf,hide,7IndexSrv_System = setupqry.dll,IndexSrv,setupqry.inf,,7TerminalServer=TsOc.dll, HydraOc, TsOc.inf,hide,2msmq=msmqocm.dll,MsmqOcm,msmqocm.inf,,6ims=imsinsnt.dll,OcEntry,ims.inf,,7fp_extensions=fp40ext.dll,FrontPage4Extensions,fp40ext.inf,,7 AutoUpdate=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,au.inf,hide,7msmsgs=msgrocm.dll,OcEntry,msmsgs.inf,hide,7WMAccess=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,wmaccess.inf,,7RootAutoUpdate=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,rootau.inf,,7IEAccess=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,ieaccess.inf,,7OEAccess=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,oeaccess.inf,,7WMPOCM=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,wmpocm.inf,,7

Games=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,games.inf,,7AccessUtil=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,accessor.inf,,7CommApps=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,communic.inf,HIDE,7MultiM=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,multimed.inf,HIDE,7AccessOpt=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,optional.inf,HIDE,7Pinball=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,pinball.inf,HIDE,7MSWordPad=ocgen.dll,OcEntry,wordpad.inf,HIDE,7ZoneGames=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 Gameshttp://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q307/7/68.asphttp://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q307768#2Add 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;2903019. 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 EntriesThis 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 ProgramAdd 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 - UndoAdd 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 hereErrors 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 & monitoredfiles 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.aspAdd or Remove - White SpaceAutoCad 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 HardwareTry 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 XPhttp://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q244/6/17.asp

Partial List of Possible Error Codes with Driver Verifierhttp://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q229/9/03.aspDevice Manager Conflicts, Error Codes and SolutionsAdd 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 BarIn Microsoft Internet Explorer, use Alt + D to highlight the address bar. This allows you to enter a URL without themouse. 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 Explorerhttp://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/ToolbarRepair.ExeRestore All Tabs under Internet Options and Remove the Internet Options Restriction Message (Line 268)http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htmRemove/Disable All Toolbars in Internet Explorer (Line 282)http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htmSet the Search Engine in Internet Explorer back to XP Default (Line 229)http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htmAddress 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 LocationOLEXP: 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 BookErr 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 DesktopThe "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 ScreenDownload 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 ScreenOn 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.htmhttp://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/win_xp_logon.htmAdministrator 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.htmAdministrative Shares HOW TO: Restore Administrative Shares That Have Been Deleted HOW TO: Create and Disable Administrative Shares on Windows XPAdministrative 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: StartMenuAdminToolsData 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 - RestoreAlbum CoversAlbum Cover Art for Windows XP and Windows Media Player 8All Part2 is NullGo 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 /clearadapwinmgmt /killwinmgmt /unregserverwinmgmt /regserverwinmgmt /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 BehaviorOpen 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 XPStart/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-VirusList of Antivirus Software VendorsApplication - 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 CommandTo 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 DisallowRunCalcRestart 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: DKThis 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 ExplorerRight 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 - ClearIE/Tools/Internet Options/General/Clear HistoryIE/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 drop-down 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.htmRestore 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.mscScroll 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 Enabledhttp://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;Q230592AutoComplete and Vcard and how they workhttp://htmlgoodies.earthweb.com/autocomplete.htmlAutoComplete Keys and StorageThe specific subkeys for different applications (appear to be) is as follows:

IE: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System Provider\S-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db

OE: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage System Provider\S-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\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-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\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-11d0-84bc-00c04fd43f8f

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'sWhen 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 SystemProvider\S-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\q:StringData]"Behavior"=-"Item Data"=-

[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage SystemProvider\S-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\e161255a-37c3-11d2-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 SystemProvider\S-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\q:StringData]

[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Protected Storage SystemProvider\S-1-5-21-839522115-1708537768-1343024091-1003\Data\e161255a-37c3-11d2-bcaa-00c04fd929db\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:StringDataHighlight 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 PasswordsGo 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 ScriptInternet 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 EnabledAuto-Dial: Disconnect/DisableCheck 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-Disconnecthttp://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_modem.htmAudigyCreative SoundBlaster Audigy Audio May Cause an Error MessageAuto-Disconnect ModemStart/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 Auto-Disconnect 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 XPhttp://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_modem.htm

Auto-Logon1. 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.htmOr...

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 XPhttp://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_wel_screen.htm

Logon and User Profileshttp://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/win_xp_logon.htmAutoPlay - Add Your CD-Rom Burning ProgramAdd Your CD Burning Program to AutoPlay Actions - Blank CD InsertedTweakUI/My Computer/AutoPlay/Handlers/EditAutoPlay - 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: NoDriveTypeAutoRunType: 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\CdromAutoRun = 0

Auto-Play: EnableControl 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/AutoPlayhttp://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\AutoplayHandlers. 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\AutoplayHandlers\Handlers\MSTakeNoActionHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\AutoplayHandlers\Handlers

Restore AutoPlay Handlers (Line 99)http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htmRestore AutoPlay Icon - http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htmTo 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 Microsofts 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 theres 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/RegeditHKEY_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-RunsAutoRuns - 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 ExplainedAutomatic Window RefreshStart/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 BytesDescription of What the Available Bytes in Task Manager RepresentsAVI 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 XPCannot Use Sony MovieShaker v1.1 and v1.2 to Open AVI FilesAVI FixThis 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 - RemoveClose 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.ExeStart/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 ID:310514

Last Review:October 26, 2002

Revision:1.0

This article was previously published under Q310514

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SUMMARY

Distributing Custom Desktop ThemesSUMMARY

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 topDistributing 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 UsersCreate 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 UsersHOW TO: Configure Desktop Themes in Windows XPBackground - 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 MissingGo 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 XPIn 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 XPWindows 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.htmBackup 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 PlusBackup 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 RecoveryThe 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 harddisk 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 doesnt 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 reformattedthus erasedas 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 youre prompted to upgrade to Windows XP, click No.

From the command promptor from the Run command in the Start menutype 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:\I386\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 regularlyusing the Backup utility in Windows XPto keep your archived data uptodate. 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, MeCannot 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 ScriptMove 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 - .batBatch files for XPBatch Script CollectionBatch Files for WindowsBatch File Association Fix Or from a command prompt just type assoc .bat=batfile

Belarc Advisor - System Inventory ToolThe 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 GenerationBootIt 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 GenerationSupport and FAQ'sHelp/InfoBootIt NG Newsgroup SupportHow 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).

BiosBios ExplainedBios - Beep CodesYou'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.shtmlBios - Upgrades

WimsBios - By Motherboard Manufacturer - FAQ's - ForumBIOS Information Guide - How To's, General Information and Download LinksSoyo Bios Downloads - Download Drivers, Manuals, and Other Information Bios - CommandsBios Manufacturer

Key Command(s)

ALR Advanced Logic Research, Inc. PC / PCI F2

ALR PC non / PCI

CTRL+ALT+ESC

AMD (Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.) BIOS

F1

AMI (American Megatrends, Inc.) BIOS

DEL

Award BIOS

CTRL+ALT+ESC

Award BIOS

DEL

DTK (Datatech Enterprises Co.) BIOS

ESC

Phoenix BIOS

CTRL+ALT+ESC

Phoenix BIOS

CTRL+ALT+S

Phoenix BIOS

CTRL+ALT+INS

Computer

Key Command(s)

Acer

F1, F2, CTRL+ALT+ESC

AST

CTRL+ALT+ESC, CTRL+ALT+DEL

Compaq 8700

F10

CompUSA

DEL

Cybermax

ESC

Dell 400

F3

Dell 400

F1

Dell Dimension F2 or DEL

Dell Inspiron F2

Dell Latitude Fn+F1 (while booted)

Dell Latitude F2 (on boot)

Dell Optiplex DEL

Dell Optiplex F2

Dell Precision F2

eMachine DEL

Gateway 2000 1440 F1

Gateway 2000 Solo F2

HP (Hewlett-Packard) F1, F2

IBM F1

IBM E-pro Laptop F2

IBM PS/2 CTRL+ALT+INS after CTRL+ALT+DEL

IBM Thinkpad (newer) Windows: Programs-Thinkpad CFG.

Intel Tangent DEL

Micron F1, F2, or DEL

Packard Bell F1, F2, Del

Sony VIAO F2

Sony VIAO F3

Tiger DEL

Toshiba 335 CDS ESC

Toshiba Protege ESC

Toshiba Satellite 205 CDS F1

Toshiba Tecra F1 or ESC

Bios - View System BIOS Information

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\HARDWARE\DESCRIPTION\System

Value Name: SystemBiosDate, SystemBiosVersion, VideoBiosDateData Type: REG_SZ (String Value)Black Screen Black Screen on BootComputer Stops Responding with a Black Screen When You Start WindowsWindows XP Stops Responding at the Welcome Screen Blank Screen or Operating System Cannot Load Profile at LogonBlocking AdsBlocking Ads with a Hosts File:http://mywebpages.comcast.net/winhelp2002/download.htmBootable CDHow to make your XP bootableHow 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 1Boot - Disable Splash ScreenRight 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 /SOSBoot - Run a Batch File at Bootup (before XP loads)How to Run a Batch File Before Logging on to Your Computer (Q243486)Boot DisksObtaining Windows XP Setup Boot Disks (Home & Pro)An alternative, ONE BOOT DISK, to the Microsoft Windows XP 6 Disk SetHOW 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 INIHow do I use Msconfig to modify boot.ini?A Discussion About the Bootcfg Command and Its UsesBOOT.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 SpeedRight 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 DVD-ROM(or CD) and CD-R on your two secondary IDE channels.Boot - ProblemsHow to Perform a Clean Boot in Windows XPHow to Use Clean Boot Troubleshooting for Windows XPHow to Troubleshoot By Using the Msconfig Utility in Windows XPhttp://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 XPFast Boot /Fast Resume Design: A performance trace visualization tool for use with Windows XP systems.Troubleshooting Bootup Problems and EditsBoot Disk - Control Automatic Boot Disk OptimizationGo 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 TimeBootvis 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 CandyBootvis 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/fastboot-winxp.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 APIs 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:

DWORDProcessIdleTasks()

The API itself is synchronous, so it wont return until the idle tasks have completed.

Bootable CDA 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 IssuesHow to Perform a Clean Boot in Windows XPHow to Use Clean Boot Troubleshooting for Windows XPHow to Troubleshoot By Using the Msconfig Utility in Windows XPhttp://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_conflicts.htmWindows XP Restarts Continuously with Blue Screen How to Disable a Service that Prevents Windows XP from BootingUse System Files to Create a Boot Disk to Guard Against Being Unable to Start Win XPBootup - 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\system

In this key, look for the following values: SynchronousMachineGroupPolicy and SynchronousUserGroupPolicyBy 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 DisableBootup - 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 - RemoveChanges the Title Bar Text in Internet ExplorerRemove IE/OE Branding For IE: Go to Start/Run and enter: rundll32.exe iedkcs32.dll,ClearManual 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.

BriefcaseHow 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 XPBrowser HijackingCheck your settings here: Start/Run/RegeditHKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main. In the right pane scroll down to Start Page. Double clickand 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 change-startpage-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.htmlHelp to Clean Spyware from your SystemLavasoft AD-Awaredetects: 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-awaredetects: Adware, Alexa, Aureate v1/2/3, Comet Cursor v1/2, Cydoor, Doubleclick, DSSAgent, Flyswat, Gator, TimeSink v1/2, Web3000 and Webhancer. Download EXE

Blocking ZoneAlarmA 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 6http://tech.tln.lib.mi.us/blockcc.htm

Browser Hijackinghttp://www.spywareinfo.com/hijacked.html

Spyware

http://www.simplythebest.net/info/spyware.htmlPornography - Clear unwanted files by Content AuditYou 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\RemoteComputer\NameSpace In the left pane find: {D6277990-4C6A-11CF-8D87-00AA0060F5BF} Value and delete it.

Bug FilingGo Start/Administrative Tools/Component Services/Services (Lo