msconfig access denied

[Chas]

If i try to alter anything in msconfig, I get a message saying access denied
and that I have to be the administrator.
This is a home computer with me alone using it for the last 3 years.
Why has this suddenly started and how do I put it back to normal?
Thanks

 

[Malke]

If i try to alter anything in msconfig, I get a message saying access
denied and that I have to be the administrator.
This is a home computer with me alone using it for the last 3 years.
Why has this suddenly started and how do I put it back to normal?
Thanks

What is the exact text of the error message? Please quote, don't
approximate.

Depending on the actual error message, reasons could be:

1. You have an HP printer installed and are getting an error about making
changes but the changes get made nonetheless.

2. You have some security software installed that is denying changes to the
registry. Examples are Spybot Search & Destroy, Ad-aware Pro, Norton or
McAfee security suites.

3. Your computer is infected.

When you post back with the actual error message, please also include what
security software you're running.

Malke

 

[Twayne]

What is the exact text of the error message? Please quote, don't
approximate.

Depending on the actual error message, reasons could be:

1. You have an HP printer installed and are getting an error about
making changes but the changes get made nonetheless.

2. You have some security software installed that is denying changes
to the registry. Examples are Spybot Search & Destroy, Ad-aware Pro,
Norton or McAfee security suites.

3. Your computer is infected.

When you post back with the actual error message, please also include
what security software you're running.

Malke

In my case I narrowed that down to the javaw.exe being used by HP's
printer ToolBox. First I just deleted javaw.exe and that clarified who
wanted it, then I removed the toolbox. Message went away. NO idea why
that file was the culprit, but like I said, in my case ... . XP Pro SP2
HP2550n color laser.
I put the toolbox back and the error came back. So I just live with
it; long as I know why and the changes still stick, I'm OK with it. But
I still wish it didn't do that.
NOTE: You might find lots of javaw.exe files scattered around of
different dates & revs; not meaningful. Each one is a world onto itself
so if you try to duplicate my work you have to be sure you find the
right one. Else you'll break something else.

Reagards,

Twayne