installer/uninstall problem

[amberlynn]

Hello,
I'm trying to fix a friends laptop.
She tried to uninstall a bunch of software - no idea what method she used, but at this point, the laptop constantly pops up a 'Microsoft Installer' window, that says it's installing something. It happens on bootup, and often when you are starting a program.
Many of the programs that need to be uninstalled either result in an error message, or when you click 'remove' in the control panel - add or remove programs window, nothing happens.

Any suggestions where to start fixing this?
She is really hoping that we don't have to reformat the hard drive and reinstall windows...

Thanks,
Amber

 

[BadBigBen]

She is really hoping that we don't have to reformat the hard drive and reinstall windows...

how about a REPAIR INSTALL instead...

How to Perform a Windows XP Repair Install

http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

Perform a Repair Installation

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/helpandsupport/learnmore/tips/doug92.mspx

This will reset Windows Registry, leaves all your data intact, but all HOTFIXES/UPDATES will have to be reapplied...


Ben

"If it works don't fix it! If it doesn't use a sledgehammer..."

 

[BadBigBen]

You may try this before you do a REPAIR INSTALL...

Description of the Windows Installer CleanUp Utility

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/290301

Ben

"If it works don't fix it! If it doesn't use a sledgehammer..."

 

[linney]

Line 348 - Windows Installer Issues

http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

How to resolve Common "Windows Installer" Problems

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;290301

Windows Installer CleanUp Utility

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;290301

Windows Installer 3.1 (v2) is available

http://support.microsoft.com/?id=893803