help with Windows Protection Error

I have receiving a Windows Protection Error when I start up for a few
weeks. I was able to get the computer to function well for about a
week by disabling all start-up programs, restarting, then reenabling
the programs. The error disappeared.

This didn't work the second time- today. I can't seem to get the
computer to start normally. I can start in safe mode, and even when I
try to start selectively, it automatically goes into safe mode. Normal
startup doesn't work and involves too many startup programs.

I have been working with msconfig. I disenabled some of the options in
selective startup, like auto bat but when reenabled, the computer
didn't start properly.

Is it time to reinstall windows 98? I have the Cd for the SE. I am
apprehensive because I didn't know how much of a hassle it will be and
whether I will have to reinstall the bios.

Feedback appreciated.
Bruce

Hi Bruce. I just finished going through the same thing myself. Look at the
post "Windows Protection Error? Whoa!" Although it may not help you answer
any of your questions, it may start to give you an idea as to the problem.
Here's what I learned from my situation:

My system was hanging upon startup (still undertermined cause) and was thus
causing a Windows protection error upon startup. I learned that the error in
my case was related to a registry entry. Bad registry entries seem to be a
major factor. I fixed the registry entry and the error stopped, but the hang
did not.

It seems Windows protection errors are very general errors, and can be
caused by a wide variety of things including bad memory, failing hardware,
bad registry, and even viruses. Try running Windows in safe mode. If that
works, then you more than likely have a problem with a startup device. Look
here ---- http://support.microsoft.com/kb/149962

That will give you a good starting point. Also do a virus scan in safe
mode. If you have many items checked in msconfig's startup, try deselecting
as many as possible. I have only scanreg, systray, and explorer checked in
mine.

As far as reformatting and/or re-installing Windows...make sure you have ALL
your program installation discs, driver discs/disks, and your Windows 98 CD
with product key. You BIOS will NOT change as a result of a reformat or
reinstallation. The only way those settings change is if you either change
them yourself or the CMOS battery dies. (I suppose a virus could also do
this, but I don't know for sure)

I actually just reformatted my HD a few days ago to to get rid of the error,
and it took me about 4 hours to get my system up and running just as it was
before the error occured. I like reformatting. It's like getting a brand
new machine. But it's not a quick task! If you haven't done a reformat in a
long time, or haven't ever done one, be prepared for a full day to get your
system back up to running as it was before.

Good luck, and I hope this has helped a bit!

I'm just another user...that's all!

"brucegooglegroups" wrote:

I have receiving a Windows Protection Error when I start up for a few
weeks. I was able to get the computer to function well for about a
week by disabling all start-up programs, restarting, then reenabling
the programs. The error disappeared.

This didn't work the second time- today. I can't seem to get the
computer to start normally. I can start in safe mode, and even when I
try to start selectively, it automatically goes into safe mode. Normal
startup doesn't work and involves too many startup programs.

I have been working with msconfig. I disenabled some of the options in
selective startup, like auto bat but when reenabled, the computer
didn't start properly.

Is it time to reinstall windows 98? I have the Cd for the SE. I am
apprehensive because I didn't know how much of a hassle it will be and
whether I will have to reinstall the bios.

Feedback appreciated.
Bruce

On Nov 15, 12:02 am, Paradoxdb3
wrote:
Hi Bruce. I just finished going through the same thing myself. Look at the
post "Windows Protection Error? Whoa!" Although it may not help you answer
any of your questions, it may start to give you an idea as to the problem.
Here's what I learned from my situation:

My system was hanging upon startup (still undertermined cause) and was thus
causing a Windows protection error upon startup. I learned that the error in
my case was related to a registry entry. Bad registry entries seem to be a
major factor. I fixed the registry entry and the error stopped, but the hang
did not.

It seems Windows protection errors are very general errors, and can be
caused by a wide variety of things including bad memory, failing hardware,
bad registry, and even viruses. Try running Windows in safe mode. If that
works, then you more than likely have a problem with a startup device. Look
here ----http://support.microsoft.com/kb/149962

That will give you a good starting point. Also do a virus scan in safe
mode. If you have many items checked in msconfig's startup, try deselecting
as many as possible. I have only scanreg, systray, and explorer checked in
mine.

As far as reformatting and/or re-installing Windows...make sure you have ALL
your program installation discs, driver discs/disks, and your Windows 98 CD
with product key. You BIOS will NOT change as a result of a reformat or
reinstallation. The only way those settings change is if you either change
them yourself or the CMOS battery dies. (I suppose a virus could also do
this, but I don't know for sure)

I actually just reformatted my HD a few days ago to to get rid of the error,
and it took me about 4 hours to get my system up and running just as it was
before the error occured. I like reformatting. It's like getting a brand
new machine. But it's not a quick task! If you haven't done a reformat in a
long time, or haven't ever done one, be prepared for a full day to get your
system back up to running as it was before.

Good luck, and I hope this has helped a bit!

I'm just another user...that's all!

"brucegooglegroups" wrote:
I have receiving a Windows Protection Error when I start up for a few
weeks. I was able to get the computer to function well for about a
week by disabling all start-up programs, restarting, then reenabling
the programs. The error disappeared.

This didn't work the second time- today. I can't seem to get the
computer to start normally. I can start in safe mode, and even when I
try to start selectively, it automatically goes into safe mode. Normal
startup doesn't work and involves too many startup programs.

I have been working with msconfig. I disenabled some of the options in
selective startup, like auto bat but when reenabled, the computer
didn't start properly.

Is it time to reinstall windows 98? I have the Cd for the SE. I am
apprehensive because I didn't know how much of a hassle it will be and
whether I will have to reinstall the bios.

Feedback appreciated.
Bruce

Hi paradox,
Thanks for your reply. I tried to edit the msdos.sys file on the
computer to stop it from going into safe mode- but it didn't work.
So I will try to reinstall Dell suggested trying to install Windows
Xp- but I am skeptical. I have a celeron 500 on this machine, with
almost 400 RAM, but I am not sure if XP will work.

I will have to prepare and get all the disks from the original
installation.
Bruce

"brucegooglegroups" wrote in message
...
I have receiving a Windows Protection Error when I start up for a few
weeks. I was able to get the computer to function well for about a
week by disabling all start-up programs, restarting, then reenabling
the programs. The error disappeared.

This didn't work the second time- today. I can't seem to get the
computer to start normally. I can start in safe mode, and even when I
try to start selectively, it automatically goes into safe mode. Normal
startup doesn't work and involves too many startup programs.

I have been working with msconfig. I disenabled some of the options in
selective startup, like auto bat but when reenabled, the computer
didn't start properly.

Is it time to reinstall windows 98? I have the Cd for the SE. I am
apprehensive because I didn't know how much of a hassle it will be and
whether I will have to reinstall the bios.

Feedback appreciated.
Bruce

Troubleshooting Windows 98 Startup Problems
http://support.microsoft.com/default...;EN-US;Q188867

How to Perform Clean-Boot Troubleshooting for Windows 98
http://support.microsoft.com/default...;EN-US;Q192926

Also read “Clean Boot -- What it is and why you need it” by MS MVP Gary Terhune.
http://www.grystmill.com/articles/cleanboot.htm
http://www.grystmill.com/articles/security.htm

Windows 98 or Windows 95 Defaults to Safe Mode Even After Successful Start
http://support.microsoft.com/default...;EN-US;q143283

The Computer Always Starts in Safe Mode
http://support.microsoft.com/default...;en-us;Q306615



--

Brian A. Sesko { MS MVP_Shell/User }
Conflicts start where information lacks.
http://basconotw.mvps.org/

Suggested posting do's/don'ts: http://www.dts-l.org/goodpost.htm
How to ask a question: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/555375

"brucegooglegroups" Thanks for your reply.
I tried to edit the msdos.sys file on the
computer to stop it from going into safe mode- but it didn't work.
So I will try to reinstall Dell suggested trying to install Windows
Xp- but I am skeptical. I have a celeron 500 on this machine, with
almost 400 RAM, but I am not sure if XP will work.

I will have to prepare and get all the disks from the original
installation.
Bruce

Don't even think about XP with your setup.
Don't re-install Win98 just yet.
Use the links Brian A. gave you.

On Nov 15, 2:27 pm, "Buffalo" wrote:
"brucegooglegroups" Thanks for your reply.
I tried to edit the msdos.sys file on the

computer to stop it from going into safe mode- but it didn't work.
So I will try to reinstall Dell suggested trying to install Windows
Xp- but I am skeptical. I have a celeron 500 on this machine, with
almost 400 RAM, but I am not sure if XP will work.

I will have to prepare and get all the disks from the original
installation.
Bruce

Don't even think about XP with your setup.
Don't re-install Win98 just yet.
Use the links Brian A. gave you.

Buffalo,
Which link should I consult first? right now I can't use the CD rom
drive to backup data.
Thanks.
Bruce

"brucegooglegroups" wrote in message
...
On Nov 15, 2:27 pm, "Buffalo" wrote:
"brucegooglegroups" Thanks for your
reply.
I tried to edit the msdos.sys file on the

computer to stop it from going into safe mode- but it didn't work.
So I will try to reinstall Dell suggested trying to install Windows
Xp- but I am skeptical. I have a celeron 500 on this machine, with
almost 400 RAM, but I am not sure if XP will work.

I will have to prepare and get all the disks from the original
installation.
Bruce

Don't even think about XP with your setup.
Don't re-install Win98 just yet.
Use the links Brian A. gave you.

Buffalo,
Which link should I consult first? right now I can't use the CD rom
drive to backup data.
Thanks.
Bruce

Since you had the problem earlier and then it returned, I would:
First of all, remove and reseat the memory cards and the video card.
If this doesn't help,then:
If you have more than 1 stick of ram, I would try using your machine with
only one stick until you get it sorted out.
It's possible that one stick is going bad.
Make sure the cpu/fan/heatsink is fairly clean.
Read the Gary Terhune links first.
A clean boot is an easy and essential way to determine if it is a driver
problem.
Reading all the links is not the time consuming.
Hopefully if this does not help you out, others will come in and add their
expertise in Win98.
There are some great ones in this NG.

On Nov 15, 5:17 pm, "Buffalo" wrote:
"brucegooglegroups" wrote in message

...



On Nov 15, 2:27 pm, "Buffalo" wrote:
"brucegooglegroups" Thanks for your
reply.
I tried to edit the msdos.sys file on the

computer to stop it from going into safe mode- but it didn't work.
So I will try to reinstall Dell suggested trying to install Windows
Xp- but I am skeptical. I have a celeron 500 on this machine, with
almost 400 RAM, but I am not sure if XP will work.

I will have to prepare and get all the disks from the original
installation.
Bruce

Don't even think about XP with your setup.
Don't re-install Win98 just yet.
Use the links Brian A. gave you.

Buffalo,
Which link should I consult first? right now I can't use the CD rom
drive to backup data.
Thanks.
Bruce

Since you had the problem earlier and then it returned, I would:
First of all, remove and reseat the memory cards and the video card.
If this doesn't help,then:
If you have more than 1 stick of ram, I would try using your machine with
only one stick until you get it sorted out.
It's possible that one stick is going bad.
Make sure the cpu/fan/heatsink is fairly clean.
Read the Gary Terhune links first.
A clean boot is an easy and essential way to determine if it is a driver
problem.
Reading all the links is not the time consuming.
Hopefully if this does not help you out, others will come in and add their
expertise in Win98.
There are some great ones in this NG.

I am finally able to access the computer including the drivers ( and
the internet) by interactively loading the drivers. I didn't load the
autoexec.bat file and the config.sys file or the startup items. Do I
need the autoexec and the config to be loaded each startup?
Thanks.
Bruce

"brucegooglegroups" wrote in message
...
On Nov 15, 5:17 pm, "Buffalo" wrote:
"brucegooglegroups" wrote in message

...



On Nov 15, 2:27 pm, "Buffalo" wrote:
"brucegooglegroups" Thanks for your
reply.
I tried to edit the msdos.sys file on the

computer to stop it from going into safe mode- but it didn't work.
So I will try to reinstall Dell suggested trying to install Windows
Xp- but I am skeptical. I have a celeron 500 on this machine, with
almost 400 RAM, but I am not sure if XP will work.

I will have to prepare and get all the disks from the original
installation.
Bruce

Don't even think about XP with your setup.
Don't re-install Win98 just yet.
Use the links Brian A. gave you.

Buffalo,
Which link should I consult first? right now I can't use the CD rom
drive to backup data.
Thanks.
Bruce

Since you had the problem earlier and then it returned, I would:
First of all, remove and reseat the memory cards and the video card.
If this doesn't help,then:
If you have more than 1 stick of ram, I would try using your machine with
only one stick until you get it sorted out.
It's possible that one stick is going bad.
Make sure the cpu/fan/heatsink is fairly clean.
Read the Gary Terhune links first.
A clean boot is an easy and essential way to determine if it is a driver
problem.
Reading all the links is not the time consuming.
Hopefully if this does not help you out, others will come in and add their
expertise in Win98.
There are some great ones in this NG.

I am finally able to access the computer including the drivers ( and
the internet) by interactively loading the drivers. I didn't load the
autoexec.bat file and the config.sys file or the startup items. Do I
need the autoexec and the config to be loaded each startup?
Thanks.
Bruce

The autoexec.bat file and the config.sys file for the most part are not needed to
boot successfully to Windows, however on rare occasions an application may add itself
or a part of into one, the other or both.
Open both in Notepad and copy/paste the contents in a response so we can have a
look at them to see if there may be something out of whack.

It appears you conducted a Step x Step boot, or you made it into Windows and used
msconfig to either use the Diagnostic or Selective Startup. Now that you have made
it back into Windows, to troubleshoot a bit further using msconfig if that's what you
used:
Click Start Run, type in: msconfig and press Enter.
Recheck any selections you have unchecked a few at a time, rebooting after each
change you make. If the machine boots properly then you have a good idea that the
items you reselected aren't the cause. Repeat the process of reselecting a few and
rebooting until the machine fails to boot properly, then you will know that the last
few items reselected have the cause of the issue. Remove the selections one or two
at a time until the system boots properly, by process of elimination you will
pinpoint it down to the problematic entry.

--

Brian A. Sesko { MS MVP_Shell/User }
Conflicts start where information lacks.
http://basconotw.mvps.org/

Suggested posting do's/don'ts: http://www.dts-l.org/goodpost.htm
How to ask a question: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/555375

On Nov 15, 10:52 pm, "Brian A." gonefish'n@afarawaylake wrote:
"brucegooglegroups" wrote in message

...



On Nov 15, 5:17 pm, "Buffalo" wrote:
"brucegooglegroups" wrote in message

...

On Nov 15, 2:27 pm, "Buffalo" wrote:
"brucegooglegroups" Thanks for your
reply.
I tried to edit the msdos.sys file on the

computer to stop it from going into safe mode- but it didn't work.
So I will try to reinstall Dell suggested trying to install Windows
Xp- but I am skeptical. I have a celeron 500 on this machine, with
almost 400 RAM, but I am not sure if XP will work.

I will have to prepare and get all the disks from the original
installation.
Bruce

Don't even think about XP with your setup.
Don't re-install Win98 just yet.
Use the links Brian A. gave you.

Buffalo,
Which link should I consult first? right now I can't use the CD rom
drive to backup data.
Thanks.
Bruce

Since you had the problem earlier and then it returned, I would:
First of all, remove and reseat the memory cards and the video card.
If this doesn't help,then:
If you have more than 1 stick of ram, I would try using your machine with
only one stick until you get it sorted out.
It's possible that one stick is going bad.
Make sure the cpu/fan/heatsink is fairly clean.
Read the Gary Terhune links first.
A clean boot is an easy and essential way to determine if it is a driver
problem.
Reading all the links is not the time consuming.
Hopefully if this does not help you out, others will come in and add their
expertise in Win98.
There are some great ones in this NG.

I am finally able to access the computer including the drivers ( and
the internet) by interactively loading the drivers. I didn't load the
autoexec.bat file and the config.sys file or the startup items. Do I
need the autoexec and the config to be loaded each startup?
Thanks.
Bruce

The autoexec.bat file and the config.sys file for the most part are not needed to
boot successfully to Windows, however on rare occasions an application may add itself
or a part of into one, the other or both.
Open both in Notepad and copy/paste the contents in a response so we can have a
look at them to see if there may be something out of whack.

It appears you conducted a Step x Step boot, or you made it into Windows and used
msconfig to either use the Diagnostic or Selective Startup. Now that you have made
it back into Windows, to troubleshoot a bit further using msconfig if that's what you
used:
Click Start Run, type in: msconfig and press Enter.
Recheck any selections you have unchecked a few at a time, rebooting after each
change you make. If the machine boots properly then you have a good idea that the
items you reselected aren't the cause. Repeat the process of reselecting a few and
rebooting until the machine fails to boot properly, then you will know that the last
few items reselected have the cause of the issue. Remove the selections one or two
at a time until the system boots properly, by process of elimination you will
pinpoint it down to the problematic entry.

--

Brian A. Sesko { MS MVP_Shell/User }
Conflicts start where information lacks.http://basconotw.mvps.org/

Suggested posting do's/don'ts: http://www.dts-l.org/goodpost.htm
How to ask a question: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/555375

Hi Brian,
I did do a step by step confirmation. The first time I did it, it
worked and then when I restarted, I got the protection error. I tried
it again, this time not enabling any Norton programs. But I can't seem
to open NAV or NSW in this mode.

I have had a lot of system freezes caused by "capp not responding" in
the past. Capp is a part of Norton.

So where I am now- if I don't load Norton, startup programs, or
config.sys, and autoexec.bat my coomputer will boot up.

However, when I try to load Norton on startup the computer won't boot.

I want to enable Norton without the problems.
Suggestions?
Bruce