AllExperts > Windows XP 
Search      
Windows XP
Volunteer
Answers to thousands of questions
 Home · More Windows XP Questions · Answer Library  · Encyclopedia ·
More Windows XP Answers
Question Library

Ask a question about Windows XP
Volunteer
Experts of the Month
Expert Login

Awards

About Us
Tell friends
Link to Us
Disclaimer

 
 
 
 
About Mike Dacre
Expertise
I am proficient with all windows platforms. Installation and maintenance of home/business networks and small business servers. windows Vista and XP questions please but I will answer win 2000 as well. If your system is older then that, then your problem is your operating system is just too old to be using on the internet!

 
   

You are here:  Experts > Computing/Technology > Focus on Windows > Windows XP > Scanning registry in DOS

Windows XP - Scanning registry in DOS


Expert: Mike Dacre - 7/11/2008

Question
QUESTION: I'm having a problem with winxp pro.  I'm familiar with how to make a bootable disk for DOS, but I don't know of a tool that can scan and repair the windows registry.  I've used a couple tools to repair the registry, but I get the BSOD each time and it doesn't complete.  I also cannot run a full virus scan because it results in the same BSOD.  I've tried to restore to a prior system repair point, but it does not resolve the problem.

ANSWER: Hello Bob,

Actually it sounds more like you should be checking your memory (RAM) first by unseating and reseating it and/or if you have more then one strip, swap them out. There are memory checker type programs and what not, but for the most, typically the problems are either the hardware (the memory) or possibly the CPU itself, but if not, then the software being infected/replaced, etc... for this I suggest going to my website at http://tpsconsulting.com and reading the TIPS page  on OPTIMIZING your computer. Then if you go to the SOFTWARE/SUPPORT page, I suggest installing all the programs from the PINK section as they will help with the cleaning/removal and ongoing maintenance from the spyware/malware issues that are quite often the problems with the computer.  To note, such programs like everest diagnostic tool, belarc advisor and system jewel can be quite useful.

Hope this helps,

Sincerely

Mike Dacre
http://tpsconsulting.com

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Ok, I reseated the memory to no avail. I also, and I replied earlier, scanned my memory in DOS to make sure it wasn't a memory problem.  

I looked over the optimizing page of your website as well and did not find anything of benefit to my system.  I'm employed as a network administrator and regularly tweak my system to maintain performance and avoid system troubles.  

I know there is a problem with the registry file that may be the result of a hard drive issue.  I'm set up in a RAID 5 configuration and recently had a hard drive failure.

Unfortunately, I also cannot run a full harddrive scan as it pauses during the extended checks.  I'm sure this is where the true problem is, but I would like to solve this registry problem if possible before attempting to fix that issue.

Trying a scan of the registry in windows safe mode also fails with a BSOD.

Do you know of a program that can do a reliable scan and repair of windows registry while in DOS?

Answer
Hello again,

I am sorry my optimizing tips were found to be something you do not require for your problem.  I am forced to suggest the WINDOWS REPAIR option as what I would suggest as your only other choice other then a full reformat/partition and installation. That tip can be found on my website at http://tpsconsulting.com  Click on the TIPS and read the VARIOUS WINDOWS XP TWEAKs tip as this will explain how to perform a windows repair without having to reinstall all of your other programs.  Since this basically reinstalls all of the windows system files, it should give you a good idea whether it is related to the registry or not. From what you have further explained however, it does also sound like your hard drive is at fault, especially with BSOD.

Hope this helps,

Sincerely

Mike Dacre
http://tpsconsulting.com

Add to this Answer    Ask a Question



  Rate this Answer
   Was this answer helpful?
Not at allDefinitely              
   12345  

     
About Us | Advertise on This Site | User Agreement | Privacy Policy | Help
Copyright  © 2008 About, Inc. About and About.com are registered trademarks of About, Inc. The About logo is a trademark of About, Inc. All rights reserved.