Can't install SP3 on Win2K Server. Error with dcpromo.exe

[MrPink1138]

I'm trying to install Service Pack 3 on my Win2k Server machine and every time I get the error message:

"The file C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\DCPROMO.EXE is open or in use by another application"

The install procedure then halts and I cannot install the service pack.

From what I've read dcpromo.exe is used for promotion of domain controllers in active directory environments.
I'm running a webserver with none of this. I've never used dcpromo or any active directory stuff so there's no reason it should be running.

I open task manager and it's not even there for me to shut it down. The only things running are:
CSRSS.EXE
mdm.exe
WINLOGIN.exe
rdpclip.exe
and explorer.exe

Any ideas on how I can fix this so I can install the service pack would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance

 

[Omnicef]

Try running DCPromo.exe and then canceling the installation. If that doesn't work maybe you can run it and install AD and then run it again to demote it. I am not sure if this will help but it is worth a try. By the way, Service Pack 4 has been released now.

Thnks in advance to all users out there who continually answer all of our questions. Although I try to answer some questions, I usually am asking.

 

[MrPink1138]

If I try to run DCPromo.exe I get an "Access Denied" message. Wierd.
I just realized SP4 was out as well so I'm gonna try that and see if it works.
Thanks for the help

 

[GlenJohnson]

If you get access denied, then make sure you're logged on as admin. Good luck.

Glen A. Johnson
Johnson Computer Consulting
MCP W2K



Want to get great answers to your Tek-Tips questions? Have a look at FAQ219-2884
"Study not to know more, but better."
Lucius Annaeus Seneca (2 BC-65AD); Roman philosopher.

 

[MrPink1138]

Wierd. I was logged in as myself and it wouldn't work even though I'm part of the administrators group.
I logged in as the actual Administrator account and it worked.

I don't think it was a permissions issue though since it tried to install it on my account but just crashed cuz that file was in use.

I'm still puzzled as to why that file was in use as I've never used it, I don't use active directory, and the machine isn't even part of a domain. The file never showed up in the task manager or anything either.

Oh well.. I can get the SPs installed now so I guess that's the important part. Thanks to those who helped

 

[GlenJohnson]

I don't think it was a permissions issue though since it tried to install it on my account but just crashed cuz that file was in use.

It is permissions causing your problem. Double check that you are an admin, and not just a comment saying your an admin. Look at the admin group and make sure that you're there. Good luck, and glad things are working out.



Glen A. Johnson
Johnson Computer Consulting
MCP W2K



Want to get great answers to your Tek-Tips questions? Have a look at FAQ219-2884
"Study not to know more, but better."
Lucius Annaeus Seneca (2 BC-65AD); Roman philosopher.

 

[MrPink1138]

No... I'm definately an admin. Part of the Administrators group. I used my account to reset the password on the actual 'Administrator' account because I never use it.

This is the account I've used to install all of the other Service Packs and windows updates.