16 bit ms-dos subsystem error

[rabbit]

16 bit ms-dos subsystem error message is displayed as soon as i log on onto
xp. it also prevents me from installing 16 bit software or games how can i
solve this?

 

[Ronnie Vernon MVP]

16 bit ms-dos subsystem error message is displayed as soon as i log
on onto xp. it also prevents me from installing 16 bit software or
games how can i solve this?

Take a look at the following links for information and fixes for this issue.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/324767
Error message when you install or start an MS-DOS or 16-bit Windows-based
program

Replace the standard version of autoexec.nt/config.nt by copying a backup
copy
located in %windir%\repair\ to %windir%\system32\

Troubleshooting MS-DOS-Based Programs in Windows
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/314106

16-bit MS-DOS Subsystem error while installing or running a DOS application:
http://windowsxp.mvps.org/16bit.htm

MS-DOS or 16-bit Windows-based program Error Message
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_m.htm#16bit

In addition to that "Windupdate.exe" information, there is yet another issue
that has been documented.

The autoexec.nt file in C:\WINDOWS\system32 can be deleted by a malware
program called WinAdTools.

Look for this program in the Control Panel/Add or Remove Programs and remove
it.

You should also use one or both of the following programs to clean and
maintain the system.

AdAware SE
http://www.lavasoftusa.com/support/download/

Spybot
http://security.kolla.de/