Cannot install or uninstall programs

[OldGrantonian]

I have WinXP Home.

Today, I cannot uninstall programs using the Control Panel. The message was
something like: "An error occurred while trying to remove program X ..."

I cannot install programs by double-clicking. The message is: "Windows
cannot access the specified device, path, or file. You may not have the
appropriate permissions.

Until today, everything was fine.

As an experiment, I tried to "install" several programs that are already
installed, and I get the same message.

BTW: I can launch any program from Program Files by double-clicking.

Please advise.

 

[GCB]

Well it does certainly sound like a permissions problem! Has someone else
changed you user permissions or maybe you have inadvertently done so. Go into
start/control panel/user accounts and see if you have administrator
permissions.

Regards,

G. Lucas
MCP

 

[OldGrantonian]

I checked my account. I'm an administrator

However, I previously broke one of the first rules of Windows operation:
Don't even think about complaining until you have re-booted!

So, I rebooted. And everything is now fine

But thanks for your help.

 

[Walter Goldschmidt]

If nothing else works try logging on as administrator by restarting computer
and tapping F8 key until you enter a window that allows you to boot to safe
mode. Then try to uninstall the program.