How to recover ability to install things?

[MF]

Long, long ago -- maybe two months ago -- installation of a device
failed, but I do not remember which device. The problem is that I can
not install anything, no devices, not even some software.

I want to recover the ability to install and use devices. In "Add
Hardware", the error is:

"You can install only one device at a time. Another device
installaton is underway. -- when finished, you can try this wizard
again."

This message has appeared when I attempt to install USB devices, or
even software.
It also appears when I plug in a new device.

Thanks.

 

[Kelly]

Go to Start/Run/Regedit and navigate to this key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\Setup

If there is a key or value named: FactoryPreInstallInProgress
Right click and delete it.

Do the same here: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Factory

Reboot.

--

All the Best,
Kelly (MS-MVP/DTS&XP)

Taskbar Repair Tool
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/taskbarplus!.htm