windows protection error system haulted:(

[rorpan]

When I start up my comp I get this message (blue screen) Hit the reset and it boots into safe mode. Is this a software or hardware problem (any idea.) Using the windows millenium operating system. Not showing any driver problems in the device manager when i'm in safe mode. However, I did notice there is no cd rom showing up in my computer. Any tips appreciated for solving this problem. I tried reinstalling millenium but it loaded up to the 7min left mark and seemed to cycle there forever?

 

[davidkay]

I had this problem problem a few years ago. I can't remember exactly how I fixed it but I do know it didn't do it if I disconnected the CD-ROM. Sorry I know thats not much help!

 

[rorpan]

Thanks I will give that a try. I wounder if it could be a virus. Windows protection error is it software or hardware related. Any educated guesses

 

[Conor026]

Any new drivers,new software or viruses can cause this.
But since you can get into windows its probably drivers.
When in safe mode,only the bare amount of drivers or default drivers
are loaded and if the driver that is causing the error isnt loading the computer works.

In safe then,delete any new drivers and restart,
if it works reload the drivers and restart.
if you get the error again download updated drivers

 

[newbiepcuser]

Trying running msconfig in Safe mode and uncheck any unnecessary software in the startup.


MSCONFIG with Windows ME

 

[davidkay]

btw, when i had this problem a few years back, it wouldn't even let me into Safe mode!

 

[rorpan]

did you figure out the problem or find out what it was ie hardware software
thanks

 

[rorpan]

Fixed the problem I think. Installed a different video card and started the machine. It loaded windows properly. Then I shutdown the machine and put the original card back in. Started the machine again and it started up properly again. I found a version of pgp (ecription program) loaded that was not made of mellenium. I uninstalled the program. Shutdown and resatrted the machine and everything seems to be fine Does this make any sesnse to anyone. Was there a driver issue with the video card or is it possible the ecription program was causing the problem?
Thanks for your help

 

[kylef]

It's almost certainly a video driver issue. Especially with Windows 9x (Me included), the best way to swap video cards was to:

1. Uninstall any applications that your video card installed in "Add/Remove Programs..."
2. Load the "Standard VGA" video drivers to replace your current drivers
3. Shut down the computer and swap the video card
4. Start the computer, and install the new video card's drivers