XP problem

[Iain.Faulkner]

This isn't technically to do with work, but help would be appreciated nonetheless.

 

I've got a PC which i'm working on which has (probably due to a virus) had it's control panel disabled in the registry. I found a registry fix for it, however unfortunately the registry editing has also been disabled.

 

I've run symantec on it, pulled off all viruses I can find. Anyone got any ideas?

 

I'm pretty stuck, can only think to reload the PC, but i'm loathed to do it.

 

cheers

[Oops_my_bad]

The owner hasn't been dicking around with group policy have they? (local or otherwise). See if you can open gpedit.msc on the PC and try editing the appropriate settings.

[steve]

To get access to registry editing tools try:

 

1.Click Start, click Run, type gpedit.msc in the Open box, and then click OK.

2.Expand User Configuration, Administrative Templates, and System, and then click Prevent access to registry editing tools.

3.Click to select one of the following option:

• Disabled

 

Also do the Control Panel from gpedit.msc

 

User Configuration>Administrative Templates>Control Panel:Prohibit Access to the Control Panel=disabled.

[Michael]

The above solutions should work, however if the PC is in bad shape, formatting and re-installing should fix all outstanding problems and remove all viruses too.

 

It's a longish process, but at least you can start with a fresh new install.

[elsiegee40]

I'm with Michael. Start again.

 

I've got a disaster zone on my hands belonging to our Headteacher. I've booted it in safe mode and can rescue some photos she needs. My next step is to reformat the hard drive and reinstall Windows.

 

It just isn't worth spending hours on something that may never run properly even after hours of work.

[dan400007]

Every PC likes a brand new Windows Install. Each time I'm amazed as to how much quicker it is.

[pinemarten]

yes, agree with re- install , takes much less time than sorting out problems in most cases.

also you can be sure that any problem remaining after re-install is not software-related.

[plock]

Not sure if a windows repair might do the job?

[Iain.Faulkner]

Thanks for all your suggestions.

 

I've tried the Group Policy editing option, and still can't access what I need. Looks like I'm gonna have to go down the full reinstall route.

 

Cheers

[OutToLunch]

Boot the CD with BartPE, load the PC registry from the HD offline and import the key you need...