In the "old days" (Win 98 or 2000) if I was missing a utility or file I
could just stick the original Windows install disc in and pick-up or
re-install the missing file or utility program.
However, now with my XP Pro system.., the damn thing "seems" to want to
re-partition, re-format, and wipe all of the other programs out before it
will reinstall the missing ones..!!
Lately I have tried to defrag my laptop and an error appears indicating
I'm missing a MFC42u.dll file. I keep downloading the file from numerous
sites.., but can't get the damn thing to work.
Plus I'm afraid of that screw'y reinstall system...!!! Anybody know what
I'm talking about..??

wrote:

> In the "old days" (Win 98 or 2000) if I was missing a utility or
> file I
> could just stick the original Windows install disc in and pick-up or
> re-install the missing file or utility program.
> However, now with my XP Pro system.., the damn thing "seems" to
> want to
> re-partition, re-format, and wipe all of the other programs out before
> it will reinstall the missing ones..!!
> Lately I have tried to defrag my laptop and an error appears
> indicating
> I'm missing a MFC42u.dll file. I keep downloading the file from
> numerous sites.., but can't get the damn thing to work.
> Plus I'm afraid of that screw'y reinstall system...!!! Anybody
> know what
> I'm talking about..??

The behavior you describe is not normal behavior for Windows XP.
Something else is wrong with your computer. Since we don't have any
details about your computer, its specs, if you installed XP and if so
how (upgrade? clean install? OEM pre-install?) it isn't possible to
give you focused troubleshooting. It would also be helpful to know when
you get the missing file error and the exact text of the error message.

To check for missing system files, use the System File Checker.
Start>Run>sfc /scannow [enter]

Note that you may need to have your XP cd handy and that there is a
space between "sfc" and "/scannow".

So for more help, please post back with required details such as exactly
what you are trying to do, etc. Unlike earlier MS operating systems
such as Win9x/ME, reinstallation of XP is usually a last resort.

Malke
--
Elephant Boy Computers
www.elephantboycomputers.com
"Don't Panic!"
MS-MVP Windows - Shell/User