Windows cannot find '???

Question

When I turn on my computer I get this message on my desk top, Windows cannot find '???. I am using XP. I have done a file by file search and cannot not locate where this came from. My XP has become unstable so I am at a loss.Has anyone else had this happen and if so what does it refer to.

Answer 1

Wish you had completed the message and listed the filename...

Try running a registry cleaner (ccleaner from download.com)

Also run the msconfig utility
Start > Run . Type in: msconfig
Click on the Startup tab
Look down through the list of things being loaded and that missing file, and if you find it (or anything else being loaded from the same directory) uncheck it so it will not load.

Answer 2

I think you might have had some kind of Mal Ware/ Ad Ware program running before ( without your knowledge). This was somehow deleted ( probably by your Anti-virus ). The fact that it was not deleted totally is the reason why your Windows searches for it during boot up and gives you this error.

Unfortunately it will not be easy to find what exactly this is unless and until you spend a lot of time,searching deep in the annals of Windows XP.

Maybe a re-installation of windows XP is in order.

Good Luck.

Answer 3

Backup all of your irreplacable document, locate your original installation or recovery media, format completely, re-install, before plugging your PC to any network, install Antivirus, Windows Defender, then complete all Windows Updates.
Windows defender does a good job of keeping Malware, Trojans, and spoyware from infesting your Windows system.

Answer 4

Reboot from a CD and reinstall OS.

Answer 5

does it say "???" or what can it not find otherwise u cant get much of any help try that link for live help

Answer 6

u and your girl friend (plz do not mind)