That's what I figured: Murphy always kicks in....
I'm having some problems with Windows that I believe to be related to the
way I installed it originally: i.e., I have eight (8) users who all have
admin privileges. At least one of the software packages I use (CounterSpy)
says their software has problems with this type of configuration.
Also, when I originally started up the computer, I plugged in my HP5550
printer before installing the driver - then I read the documentation that
said this was a disaster (I spent HOURS on the phone with both Dell and HP
trying to make this work before finally giving up and using the Dell printer
that came free with the computer -- and costs twice as much for printer ink).
I was never able to completely clean out the registry, etc., of the HP files
so that I could install the driver first, then the printer so that it would
work properly.
Also, I believe I have a virus that neither CounterSpy nor McAfee have been
able to remove properly (winfixer) as well as some other unknown process that
keeps trying to connect to the Internet.
Also, my Internet connection locks up 7 times out of 10 immediately after
connection: the computer seems responsive, but you cannot start any programs
(even ctrl-alt-del just gives an hourglass mouse pointer for 5 or 10 seconds
then goes back to the default arrow with no Windows Task Manager startup).
Sometimes, after waiting 5 minutes or so, the computer will come back to
normal operation, but you can't depend on it. It's easier to reboot and try
again (of course, it won't shut down either -- since that's starting a
process to shut down -- so you end up having to shut off the power switch).
Anyway, I think I need to rebuild the O/S, no?
Cheers,
Owen
JoAnn Paules said:
Knowing that it's *that* critical - yes, the worst will happen. Murphy's Law
will kick in full force. Make sure you have all of your affairs in order.
Back up all critical documents, especially since you're going to reformat
the system. Check for *all* of your software, including ISP and drivers.
When you reinstall Office, you may not be able to activate it online. If
that happens, select the telephone option. When you call, just explain the
situation. They will help you.
Are you sure you need to reformat? Are you having problems with Windows?
--
JoAnn Paules
MVP Microsoft [Publisher]
Owen said:
OK. I've got the CDs and their associated product keys. Will there be any
problem with the activation? My wife and children rely on having Office
(esp
Word and Excel) and I'll be dead meat if it doesn't work same-day.
JoAnn Paules said:
Make sure you have your CDs and your product key.
--
JoAnn Paules
MVP Microsoft [Publisher]
I'm getting ready to Nuke-N-Pave my PC's O/S (XP Pro SP2). What do I
need
to
do beforehand to make sure Office Pro 2003 will work when I'm done.
Specifically, do I need to un-register it? Will Microsoft allow me to
re-install on the same machine?
TIA,
Owen
