Windows XP issue

markyboy.1967 · 29 May 2011

My wifes laptop keeps getting a warning message coming up. The message is-

Windows File Protection
Files that are required for Windows to run properly have been replaced by unrecognised versions. To maintain system stability, Windows must restore the original versions of these files.
Insert your Windows XP Professional CD2 now

Her laptop had XP Pro added by my last workplace after a virus issue several years ago and the company has now closed. We dont have any disc..

Any ideas on how to resolve would be great.

amjad175 · 30 May 2011

markyboy.1967 said:
Insert your Windows XP Professional CD2 now

You can try windows update but I believe you're going to need the Windows XP cd to restore the files.

There are several applications installed by default which are monitored but hardly ever used, Outlook Express, Netmeeting and Messenger (xp version). If you're not using them or have any other issues then just ignore the message.

neil_g · 30 May 2011

has it started since installing something in particular?

DavidBloor · 31 May 2011

Try running sfc /scannow from a command prompt, this should help you download and replace the files that are the wrong versions, if there are any.

neil_g · 31 May 2011

DavidBloor said:
Try running sfc /scannow from a command prompt, this should help you download and replace the files that are the wrong versions, if there are any.

that still needs the windows disk

KMPhoto · 31 May 2011

Have you tried a system restore?

WillW · 31 May 2011

neil_g said:
that still needs the windows disk

You can instal the RC without a Windows disc. I'm not at home, so can't get the instructions right now but I will do later.

neil_g · 31 May 2011

someguy201 said:
You can instal the RC without a Windows disc. I'm not at home, so can't get the instructions right now but I will do later.

the SFC pulls the files from the disk when it finds ones that arent original. not sure if that can be changed to be honest, i think its hard coded to look at the optical drive?

WillW · 31 May 2011

You can use the i386 directory, although it's a bit awkward.

neil_g · 31 May 2011

i seem to remember trying to force it to use a UNC path once but it didnt like it

WillW · 31 May 2011

It's not a pleasent experience :lol:

I can't remember if sfc will work on a service pack disc, without the full OS present.

markyboy.1967 · 31 May 2011

For some reason one of the times the laptop was powered on it took about 30 mins to load up. It has a message saying it was scanning or similar and for us to wait, which we did and now the error message doesnt come up--looks like it sorted itself out without needing to do anything.