Error during startup

  • Thread starter Thread starter Phillip Shulman
  • Start date Start date
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Phillip Shulman

A few days ago, I started receiving an error message at startup. It reads
like this:

Windows cannot find '/idlist,:520:2324,'. Make sure you typed the name
correctly, and then try again. To search a file, click the Start button, and
then click Search.

Also, a Windows Explorer window opens up pointing to the My Documents
folder. I have never seen this one before, and I have searched through
TechNet without any success. Anyone have any ideas?
 
I'm unable to find the errorneous item that's causing the problem. I have
two suggestions:

1. Include the quotation mark for startup entries that have long file names
(and if the quotation mark is already missing). Example:
http://windowsxp.mvps.org/stfolder.htm

2. Use Autoruns utility (from www.sysinternals.com) and disable the startup
programs one (or few ones) at a time and reboot. This is a trial and error
method.

3. Fix the Userinit registry value. Open Regedit.exe and navigate to the
following registry branch:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon

Backup the key by exporting it to a file. Ref:
http://windowsxp.mvps.org/registry.htm

In the right-pane, inspect the "Userinit" value assignment. It should be
like this:

C:\WINDOWS\system32\userinit.exe,

Important points regarding Userinit value:

a. Assuming the C:\ is where Windows is installed
b. Include the trailing comma as well
c. Incorrect userinit value will prevent you from logging on to the user
profile. So please be careful while fixing the Userinit value.

--
Ramesh, Microsoft MVP
Windows XP Shell/User

Windows XP Troubleshooting
http://www.winhelponline.com
 
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