windows file protection

Question

I hope that I am on the right message board.  My computer has an error coming up that says 'files that are required for Windows to run properly have been replaced by unrecognized versions.  To maintain stability, Windows must restore to original versions of these files.  Insert CD now'  The problem is I have no CD because Windows XP was embedded in my Dell computer when I bought it.  So now what do I do?   Please HELP!

fudgieguys · Answer

You could try a System Restore to a previous data and time before this error came up. It seems, according to the error message, either a hotfix was installed or some other software had been installed recently and some Window's files were over written.

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/helpandsupport/getstarted/ballew_03may19.mspx

This link helps in performing system restore. FYI.

If this fixes the problem, then contact Dell to get a copy of XP CD.

Message Edited by fudgieguys on 09-01-200608:49 AM

Mary G · Answer

Run sfc  /scannow You might not need the xp cd now, but you will in the future, so contact Dell and get one.

RoHe · Answer

If your system is still under warranty, contact Dell to request the XP CD and all the other CDs for your system.

That file protection message could also mean your system is infected with something that's replaced normal XP system files with malware, so make sure you run full antiviral and anti-malware scans too.

If none of the above solves the problem and you still don't have the XP CD, back up your personal files to CD. Reboot and press Ctrl-F11 to run PC Restore (assuming your system was shipped after July-04). That will reset the system to exactly the way Dell shipped it. ALL personal files, any software you added, and all XP updates have to be reinstalled after using PC Restore.

Ron

Message Edited by RoHe on 09-01-200601:37 PM

ro573 · Answer

I just want to thank everyone for helping me.  The response has been outstanding.  You've all been very helpful.  Thank you.   I called Dell and will be receiving the CD.

RoHe · Answer

:)

udns_eric · Answer

Hi, I just installed MS Office 2003 SP 3 and Acrobat 7 Standard Edition last night and then this morning, ran Disk Cleanup, and I got the WFP message too. I'm running the command line switch you suggested and hopefully it'll work. I tried to use the re-install DVD of XP MCE 2005, but it would not work. I hope the command line does the trick. Eric

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windows file protection

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