This is after I used the software "advanced system optimizer". It asked my permission to reboot then it restarts again and again. It states:
Advanced system optimizer
Registry optimizer is starting to optimize registry. Please wait...
Number of hives to optimize: 5
Windows major version detected: 5
Optimizing\REGISTRY\MACHINE\SAM...
Optimization done...
etc...
Yes, in technical terms, it's screwed your system. First thing to try is restarting in safe mode and then try a system restore. If that works, then just remove any traces of the tool, just so you aren't tempted to try it again. If that doesn't work then you need to replace copies of the 5 hives it's tried to 'optimize' (aka mess up) with ones from the repair folder - post back for links/instructions if you need them. "I've always been mad, I know I've been mad, like the most of us..." Pink Floyd
It doesn't have any options like safe mode.
It doesn't have any options like safe mode or system restore. Can you please post back a detailed instruction on how to replace the copies of the 5 hives? I'll really appreciate it. Thanks a lot!
As the system starts up, keep tapping F8 and you will get a menu - one of the first options will be 'safe mode' - that's the easy fix. The replacement of the hives requires that you have either a Windows XP disk, so that you can get to a DOS command prompt, or a Linux disk, so that you can manually copy the files over - you'll need to get hold of one of these before the Hive repair can be done. "I've always been mad, I know I've been mad, like the most of us..." Pink Floyd
If it goes to Safe Mode without keep rebooting then you can do system restore from there. If all else fails type %SystemRoot%\system32\restore\rstrui.exe in the Run box and hit Enter key. Get the typing "exactly" right. Choose a date/time before you installed that magic fixer program and it should get you out of trouble. You should avoid all optimizers, registry tools and fixers you find on the internet unless recommended by an expert. Most of them wreck things and are unnecessary.
Please come back and let us know the outcome.
None of them worked. Where can I find the run box? That's the only option left for me to try. Thanks anyway.
It's normally shown on the right after you click the Start button. It all depends on whether you can get to Safe Mode using F8 key or not. Please come back and let us know the outcome.
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