Troubleshooting and Reinstalling Internet Explorer in Windows XP

Written by: Arun Kumar, MVP • Edited by: Heather Marie Kosur
Updated Sep 5, 2010 • Related Guides: Internet Explorer | Internet Explorer 6 | Windows XP

Problems with browsing may require a reinstallation of Internet Explorer. The process of reinstalling IE differs slightly with the version of the browser. This article takes a look at avoiding reinstallation before explaining how to reinstall Internet Explorer on computers with Windows XP.

Next up: Reinstalling Internet Explorer 6 ►

Troubleshooting Internet Explorer to Avoid Reinstallation

Slide 1 of 3

Fig 1 - Internet Settings Dialog Box with Reset Button

click to enlarge

If your Internet Explorer is not functioning properly, chances are that the Internet Explorer settings are incorrect. This problem may also be attributed to missing or damaged files that support the browser. These also include the add-ons for Internet Explorer. Before you go for a total reinstallation of your browser, it is recommended that you try to troubleshoot Internet Explorer first to fix the problem.

If the Internet Explorer settings are incorrect or add-ins go corrupt, the problem of Internet Explorer crashing or freezing can be fixed through the following steps:

Close all open windows of Internet Explorer.
Open a fresh window of Internet Explorer, and click on the Tools menu.
In the dialog box that appears, select the last tab named Advanced (see figure).
The last button in the Advanced page of the Internet Options Dialog is named Reset. Click on the button.

Resetting the IE browser settings restores your Internet Explorer to the state when you installed it. This means that it removes all additional add-ons that were added to the Internet Explorer either intentionally or unintentionally. Most applications add their own plug-ins, such as the Adobe Suite, which adds a PDF Convertor.

Please note that the Reset operation resets every user setting in Internet Explorer except the Favorites folder. After completing the Reset operation, check to see if your Internet Explorer is functioning properly. If yes, then there is no need for reinstallation of Internet Explorer.

If the above step does not solve the problem, you will have to reinstall Internet Explorer. It is recommended that you install the latest version of Internet Explorer as it offers much more stability and more security. The current best versions of Internet Explorer are Internet Explorer 7 and Internet Explorer 8. The default version installed with the installation of Windows XP is Internet Explorer 6.

Note: Sometimes installation of Windows XP service pack 3 helps to fix Internet Explorer problems. You may want to give it a try before opting for reinstallation of Internet Explorer.

Reinstalling Internet Explorer 6

Slide 2 of 3

Although it is best to go for the latest version of the Internet Explorer browser, sometimes people may not want to upgrade. They want the default version of Internet Explorer installed with Windows XP. To reinstall Internet Explorer 6, you need to locate the "Ie.inf" file associated with Internet Explorer 6:

Open the Start menu, and click on Run.
In the text box of Run dialog, type "%systemroot%\inf" without quotes, and press Enter.
This will open the Inf folder located in the Windows Installation folder.
Look for the Ie.inf file.
Once you get the file, right click on the file, and select Install from the context menu.
This will initiate a file copy process. Once the process is completed, restart the computer.

The above procedure will reinstall a fresh copy of Windows XP's default version of Internet Explorer: IE6. There may be cases where the file "Ie.inf" is not present or the file copy process is interrupted due to missing or corrupt installation files. Under such circumstances, you will have to download Internet Explorer 6 Service Pack 1, and run the installer to reinstall Internet Explorer 6.

NOTE: This download of the IE6 Service Pack 1 is not exactly meant for Windows XP. It has been designed for previous versions such as Windows ME, 2000, and 98. However, it can still be used on Windows XP without any problems.

Reinstalling Internet Explorer 7 and Internet Explorer 8

Slide 3 of 3

If you have been using Internet Explorer version 7 or 8, you need to uninstall the browser before you can reinstall it again. To uninstall it, open the Control Panel, click open Add/Remove Programs, select Internet Explorer, and click Remove/Uninstall.

To reinstall Internet Explorer 7 or Internet Explorer 8, all you have to do is to double click the relevant installation package after the uninstallation process. If you do not have the installation packages for these versions, you can download Internet Explorer 7 or Internet Explorer 8 from the Microsoft website.

However, you may encounter a problem while reinstalling IE7 or IE8. If you had installed these versions before installing the Windows XP Service Pack 3, you will not find Internet Explorer in Add/Remove Programs. You will have to uninstall the Service Pack 3 so that they are visible in the Add/Remove Programs for uninstallation.

Hence, it is recommended that you install the Windows XP Service Pack 3 before installing Internet Explorer 7 or 8. You can reinstall Internet Explorer in Windows XP without having to uninstall Windows XP Service Pack 3 if you follow the recommendation.

Important: The method to uninstall IE is different in Windows 7. If you are using Windows 7, please refer to my blog on how to reinstall IE8 in Windows 7

◄ ●●● ►

Andrea Borman Feb 4, 2012 2:34 PM

RE: Troubleshooting and Reinstalling Internet Explorer in Windows XP

Well I did not know what else to do but to upgrade my IE6 to a later version of IE,IE8. Because when I tried your method of repairing IE6,it said I needed my Windows XP CD. Which I do not have as I have a netbook. And it never came with any Windows CDs. So I tried upgrading my IE6 to IE8 and the problem was resolved.I don't like Internet Explorer anyway but it is part of Windows. And so you cannot uninstall it. Andrea Borman.

Arun Kumar, MVP Feb 2, 2012 9:20 AM

Thanks a lot, Andrea. Even I never thought of it as a method to fix IE problems. I am sure our readers will find this a very informative post. Thanks again, Arun

Andrea Borman Feb 1, 2012 2:48 PM

I have now started to have problems with IE6 on my Windows XP. Every time I opened IE6 I got this annoying message "Internet Explorer has encountered a problem and has had to close." And sometime it just closed as soon I opened it. Normally I don't use IE and instead I use Green browser or Advanced browser which are IE shells, when I have to use an IE based browser. But when I tried using my Green browser and Advanced browser the same thing happened as with IE6. And unfortunently IE engine based browsers like Green browser,Advanced browser, Avant browser and others like it,all use the same files as IE and run off of Internet Explorer. So if Internet Explorer is not working properly,then you will have the same problem with Green browser or Avant browser as they run off of IE. I tried everything but I could not fix IE6 and as I have a netbook I don't have a Windows XP CD to repair IE6. So I upgraded to IE8 and I have not had any problems since. And IE8 is working and so is Green browser and Advanced browser. I think the problem with IE6 could have been caused by a website I visited that closed as soon as I clicked on the link. The problems is that a lot of websites do not support IE6 and it seems that IE6 has a problem with some modern websites,the HTML or something like that.There is no virus or malware. I scanned my computer,so it is not because of that. I chose IE8 instead of IE7 because I have used IE7 in the past and on Windows Vista that comes with IE7 and IE7 also has problems and is slow and does not work on some sites. Where as IE8 seems to be better. And there seems to be fewer problems with IE8. And also I have used IE8 on my other Windows 7 laptop. Where as you know there is no option as IE8 comes with Windows 7 and is part of Windows 7. But if you are having problems with IE6 one way out is to upgrade to a later version of IE and I found in my case this solved the problem. Andrea Borman.

Arun Kumar, MVP Nov 19, 2011 1:47 PM

I am glad you could use the info here. Please feel free to browse as there are plenty more articles on IE here.

Stephrowan10 Nov 19, 2011 12:24 PM

found this page informative and very straight forward and easy to understand many thanks

Arun Kumar Nov 14, 2011 8:06 AM

Hi, IE8 may create problems on Win 7 'E' version. If you are having the standard version, IE8 is definately compatible. What version of IE do you currently have? See if it is IE9. Did you try resetting the IE8? (Control Panel -> Internet Options -> Advanced tab -> Reset). That should fix the problem. If not, try cleaning the computer using CCleaner. Also, clean the registry using CCLeaner. If you still face the problem, please get back with the error message being displayed. Regards, Arun

Seniorfurkids Nov 14, 2011 2:19 AM

Oh, and when I try to re-install IE8 it tells me that IE8 is incompatible with Windows 7...ge, can't Microsoft get even ONE thing right? IE8 COMES with Windows 7 for Pete's sake...sheesh...

Seniorfurkids Nov 14, 2011 2:17 AM

I am so sick of Microsoft..nothing ever works as it should...I've sat here for months getting this stupid message about the script messing up and possibly making my IE run slower..what's up with this crap?? I am SO sick of it..I've tried everything they say to try along with a few I thought might work all to no avail! Am I gonna have to go to a different browser and tell everyone that IE is CRAP?????

Andrea Borman Nov 11, 2011 1:31 PM

Well it is actually easier to remove programs in Windows XP than what it is in Windows 7. A lot of Windows XP laptops do not have the original IE6,when first bought. As a lot of makers such as Acer and Dell like to put their own software on their laptops. Some Windows 7 laptops also come with IE9 installed by the makers. Not IE8,the default IE. But you can uninstall IE8 in Windows XP through programs menu. And you will get back the original version of IE IE6 back. And if you have upgraded to IE7 or IE8,you can also uninstall it from installed updates. And IE6 is back again. On Windows 7 you can uninstall IE9 from installed updates. But it is not so simple as in Windows XP. Sometimes when you install IE9,which can only be uninstalled from installed updates,not programs. You will find it won't uninstall. It happened to me once when I installed IE9 and I did not like it. But I found that IE9 would not uninstall from updates or from the command prompt. I think this is because sometimes during updates on Windows 7,the uninstall files some times get deleted. But I was able to get IE8 back by doing a system restore. But I don't know what would happen if you bought a Windows 7 laptop from the shop that had IE9 on it. If you found it did not uninstall through updates. But fortunently my HP Windows 7 netbooks came with IE8 and without Service Pack 1. So I do not have IE9. And at least I have a choice of if or not to install it. Which I do not want to do. Andrea Borman.

Arun Kumar Nov 10, 2011 7:35 AM

It has been an year since I am using Windows 7 so am not sure but I think when XP searches and asks for a CD, it also gives you an option to browse and find files(s) locally. Am not sure under which cases the browse button appears though. Regarding manufactures branding MS products, I totally agree with you. They should provide software as is. Or even if they are branding, they should be using default programs as users/buyers would be expecting that. Regards, Arun

Andrea Borman Nov 9, 2011 6:40 PM

Well,I have a netbook and when I clicked install it said I needed the CD. Which of course I don't have as my netbook has no CD drive. So it seems that you need to have a CD image of IE6 or have it backed up on a CD or CD drive. Also when I bought my Windows XP Netbook,it had IE8 and WMP 11 installed by the makers Acer.As well as their unwanted branded software that a lot of laptop makers like to put on there. Which I uninstalled and to get IE6,I uninstalled IE8 in programs menu and it downgrade IE to IE6. And I also got Windows Media Player 9, WMP 9 which is the default version of WMP bundled with Windows XP back, by uninstalling WMP 11 in programs menu. IE6 and WMP 9 are the default versions bundled with Windows XP. But when you buy your laptop from the shops a lot of makers like Acer and Dell put IE8 and WMP 11 on the laptop. Which is not the original version. And so you have to uninstall IE8 and WMP 11 to get back the original versions,IE6 and WMP 9. And when you buy a Windows 7 laptop,sometimes it comes with IE9.Which is not the default version of IE for Windows 7. So you have to uninstall IE9 from installed updates to get back IE8. So it could be that because when I bought the netbook it came with IE8.Even though I now have IE6 because I uninstalled IE8. It could be the reason why I can not reinstall IE6 if I had to. Laptop makers should leave Windows as it is,just like when you do a clean install. And not force their own branded software on people who do not want it. Andrea Borman.

PowercutIN Nov 9, 2011 10:52 AM

Hi Andrea The comment I posted in response, disappeaered or something?! Anyway, that was about updating the note section under the para that explains this process so it becomes more clear, based on what you have written. :) Arun

Andrea Borman Nov 8, 2011 4:47 PM

No, you cannot re install IE6 by downloading Internet Explorer 6 Service Pack 1 on Windows XP, if you already have service pack 1,2 or 3 installed. I have got Windows XP Service Pack 3 and it does not work for this.Most Windows XP users already have Service Pack 3 as service pack 1 and 2 is no longer supported. And you need Service pack 3 to get updates. And if you computer came with Windows XP Service Pack 3 pre installed,you cannot uninstall it. So if you are having a problem with IE6 you cannot reinstall it as there is no stand alone download for IE6.As the download for IE6 only comes as Service Pack 1. But IE7 and IE8 do come as a stand alone install without any service packs. So the only option is to upgrade to IE7 or IE8 and that resolves the problem. Andrea Borman.

Arun Kumar, MVP May 27, 2011 9:28 AM

Hi Paul

The only method I see is to get a copy of original from any of your friends and install it.
Also, Windows XP should be able to work without updates. It is not that not installing an update may cause Windows from functioning properly. The problem may be elsewhere.
Regards,
Arun

Paul May 27, 2011 9:21 AM

Windows XP prof

I had original XP professional with my laptop about 8 years ago from an Americal who worked with me. I lost the original installation CD during travel in an airport. The XP worked with out a hitch for 8 years with auto windows updates etc etc until last year when it crashed that needed a reinstallation. I tyried to get a copy CD from Microsoft online in USA ( I was there at that time) by giving my Toshiba Laptop number. I got a reply that they can't provide a copy due to the age of the original purchase.

So when I came back to UIndia, I installed a pirated version and it is working somewhat ok until a month ago when it appears that it needs an update which I can't do as per the Mechanic who installed the pirated XP service pack 2.

I am in Dubai now. Is there a way that I can install an original version so that I can update it automatically from Time to time with out spending more money ?

Arun Kumar, MVP May 23, 2011 4:00 AM

Hi Liana

I am not sure why your previous comments are not appearing.
I wish to know if after removing IE8, you got a working IE6. If IE6 is also not working, problem may be with its components. In this case, you will have to reinstall IE6 first. Please see the above article for reinstalling IE6. Once IE6 is installed and working properly, you should be able to install IE8 without any problems.

An alternate would be to download the "IE8 optimized for Google" from Google. It is the same IE8 with some added features for Google. Once you download the installation package, disable your antivirus and then run the installer. You should be able to install IE8 without any problems.

Regards,
Arun

Liana May 23, 2011 3:27 AM

Problem in reinstalling IE8 & YM

Dear Mr. Arun,

I tried to run CCleaner as you suggested and enable my antivirus, but i still can not reinstall my IE 8. Do you have another suggestion? Thank you.

Regards,

Liana

Arun Kumar, MVP May 22, 2011 5:37 AM

I would suggest using a system cleaner such as CCleaner to fix the registry and clean leftover files before attempting a reinstall of IE8. I guess the uninstallation did not remove all the files. CCleaner is free to download and use.
Please let me know if you were able to install IE8 after cleaning.
Regards,
Arun

Arun Kumar, MVP May 22, 2011 5:35 AM

Hi Lalit,

XP comes with IE6 preinstalled. You may try the following steps to fix the current installation:
•Open the Start menu, and click on Run.
•In the text box of Run dialog, type "%systemroot%\inf" without quotes, and press Enter.
•This will open the Inf folder located in the Windows Installation folder.
•Look for the Ie.inf file.
•Once you get the file, right click on the file, and select Install from the context menu.
•This will initiate a file copy process. Once the process is completed, restart the computer

Please let me know if this helped in installing IE6 onto your computer.

Regards,
Arun

Arun Kumar, MVP May 22, 2011 5:33 AM

Hi Rahul,

I thought I answered this but the comment in not appearing so here is the answer again:
You can use CCleaner regularly to clean and fix your registry. The Comodo System Cleaner is also good but if you use it, dont select the Aggressive mode.
Also, before cleaning the registry using any cleaner, create a system restore point. It will help if anything goes wrong though using CCleaner is safe.
Regards,
Arun

Liana May 22, 2011 5:21 AM

Hi Sir, I have a problem with IE too. I use windows XP. I tried to solve problem with my Yahoo Messenger by uninstalling IE 8 and reinstalling it again. The result is my IE back to IE 6 and I can not reinstall IE 8. The message displays: "Windows IE cannot install because another program or update is waiting to restart your computer. Restart your computer and run this setup program".
I already restarted it, and try to install IE 8 again but it doesn't work.
I can not unistall my IE 6 too, my yahoo messenger still have the same problem ( I can not see message that I typed or message that i received in ym)
I really need your help to reinstall my IE8, and if you have solution for my yahoo messenger please inform me. Thank you for your help.

Lalit Mishra May 14, 2011 1:36 AM

Problem of Installing IE6

Hello Sir,
I need to install IE6 on my computer. And i am using windows xp of 2007 version. How could it be possible? I have downloaded IE6 and tried to install but doesn't works and displays a message " A previous version of IE has been found. Setup can't be run." I need help for installing IE6 on my PC.

Regarding
Lalit

Rahul Sharma May 9, 2011 1:10 PM

Hi Arun,
The latest development is that after going through some of your responses here. I ran CCleaner to clean the registry. Initially I was a bit scared but it worked! Thank you.

Can I use CCleaner to scan and fix my registry from time to time? Is it safe?

Regards.
Rahul

Arun Kumar, MVP May 9, 2011 12:46 PM

Hi Rahul

Please run the IE8 installation package and see if it is able to repair install the current copy. In some cases, it may also help you remove the current copy and install a fresh one.
Regards,
Arun

Rahul Sharma May 9, 2011 12:32 PM

Hi Arun,
Thank you for your quick response. Desperate to remove IE8 from my computer, yesterday I deleted the folder. Now though the folder is deleted the shortcut to IE8 on my desktop still works. I went to the properties and Find Target. Then deleted the .exe file. But still when I click on the desktop shortcut, the file regenerates itself and the page opens up. It does not show itself in the Add or Remove Programs list but it's still there on my computer in that same unusable state. How can I get rid of it and install it afresh?

Thanks and Regards.
Rahul

Arun Kumar, MVP May 9, 2011 3:22 AM

Try to uninstall it again. When you are presented with the error:
1. Go to C:\WINDOWS\INF
2. Delete the file named IEM.
Click retry on the error dialog. You should be able to remove the IE.
Once removed, use a computer cleaner such as CCleaner or Comodo to clean the registry and temp files. Then install the IE8 again. Please let me know if this worked.
Regards,
Arun

Rahul Sharma May 8, 2011 10:32 PM

Dear Arun,
Thanks for your information. I have Internet explorer8 installed on my computer. Of late it has become almost unusable. It freezes every time I start it.
I did everything suggested by you. I reset it but to no avail.

Finally I tried to remove it. But after threatening me with so and so programs would not work properly, it said:

Setup cannot copy the file inetcorp.iem

And I'm not able to uninstall it. Please help. I have Windows XP installed on my computer but I don't have the installation CD with me.

Please help.

Rahul

dean simes Mar 13, 2011 4:53 AM

IE8 on XP pro.- won't play videos

Hi Arun,

I got back to the club computers today.

Closed all opened web pages by closing and reopening IE 8. Reset to the default settings. Problem solved.

Thank you.

Regards, Dean

dean simes Mar 8, 2011 7:35 PM

Thanks Arun,

It will be aday or two before I can get to the club's computers again, when I will follow your suggestions.

However I have already tried the reset, and seemed to get into a closed loop.

On clicking on reset a box opened - advising to close all other programs. I had none running - I checked Task Manager and this showed only Internet Explorer. Clicked OK, and then reset again - got the same message.

I presumed from this that it had not reset.

In case it had, tried a web video, but could still not run it, so the problem remained.

The anti virus is AVG free with scheduled scans. I will do a separate scan, as a further check.

Regards, dean

Arun Kumar, MVP Mar 8, 2011 5:15 AM

Hi Dean

You should go for a Reset. I assume it is a component clash. To reset IE, open Internet Options and go to the Advanced tab. Click the Reset Button. This should fix the problem.
If Reset does not work, it must be a case of malware. Run an online scan from Norton or Microsoft. Please let me know if this helped.
Regards,
Arun

dean simes Mar 8, 2011 5:08 AM

Just found this page. Have read through, but my problem does not appear.

When I try to play a web video - Utube and several others - get "An add-on for this website failed to run. Check the security settings in Internet Options for potential conflicts".

This computer is one in a seniors computer club, and is used for teaching - by volunteers.

With Utube there was a message that the latest Adobe Flash Player was needed. Went into security and added that to the trusted sites. Ran download and got the same message.

Used Adobe uninstaller to remove any existing flash player, and tried again. Same result.

Attempted this on a second computer - here was able to run Utube video after adding Adobe.com to trusted sites. However, I could not run any other videos, including some of MS's training lessons.

Tried to reset defaults, but kept getting the message to shut down other programs. According to Task Manager, only IE8 was running.

Did a web search but did not find this problem there.

The anti virus is AVG free. Disabled Resident Shield, and tried all the steps as above. Same result.

Has any one had this problem? Can a solution be suggested?

Thanks in advance

Arun Kumar, MVP Mar 4, 2011 3:03 AM

Hi K. Heinze

It must be some Microsoft update. or any other program that you tried to install.
The only way I can see is to rollback the system using the System Restore to some date previous to when the problem started.
Regards,
Arun

K. Heinze Mar 3, 2011 10:48 PM

Google doesn't work anymore

My google search doesn't work anymore. Neither does Bing,Yahoo or any of the other search providers. It times out. I have done the above fix by resetting it. That still doesn't work. I no longer have the drop down menu from previous sites and my sign ins and passwords aren't being saved anymore. The only way I can search is by using Comcast search. This doesn't give me all the sites I would like to see. Am I losing my IE or is the memory too full. I have done disk cleanups, removed the cookies and temporary internet files and still having problems. This just started about 2 weeks ago.

Arun Kumar, MVP Mar 3, 2011 2:18 AM

Hi Sudeep

Do you get any message? If so, please share it so I can assist better. Meanwhile, you can try a reset of Internet Options. Open Internet Options from Control Panel and click on the Advanced tab. Click on RESET button. Click OK. Please let me know if this worked.
Regards,
Arun

Sudeep Mar 2, 2011 1:37 AM

intrnet explorer is not opend

hello sr
my pc proble is after the click internet not brows or not opend.

Arun Kumar, MVP Feb 23, 2011 1:23 AM

Hi Joris

I would recommend a complete reinstall in this case. That should fix the problem. Before reinstalling, remember to backup your bookmarks/favorites.
Regards,
Arun
Signed: Wednesday, February 23, 2011, 11:52:57 AM IST

Joris Feb 22, 2011 3:22 PM

IE 8

Hello, recently I used files recovery program. I dont if that had to do something with that or not but IE (then I turn it on or open New tab in it freezes for some time). I tried some steps I reset settings but its still the same

Arun Kumar, MVP Jan 22, 2011 2:53 AM

Hi Rohit

You may reset the IE to see if it works fine. Open Internet Options from Control Panel and go to the Advanced tab. Click on the last button that says Reset. Click OK and open IE to see if its working properly.
If not, you may have to reinstall it.
Let me know if the problem persists.
Regards,
Arun.
Signed: Saturday, January 22, 2011, 1:32:09 PM IST

rohit MAlhotra Jan 22, 2011 2:04 AM

hi vijay
the internet explorer on my comp opens and then shuts down as soon as it opens. so there is no time to go into the settings. am using XP
im on a ship in the mid atlantic so help is limited
Rohit

Liz Jan 19, 2011 4:11 AM

IE 8 not working

I had the same problem with IE8 seems just stopped running tried everything nothing worked so i downloaded the program again. I tried to delete the IE folder like you said on NOV 6 2010 but it would not let me delete anything so I reinstalled it ... I will let you know if it fixes the problem or not...thank you for your knowledge.

Arun Kumar, MVP Jan 6, 2011 6:01 AM

Hi Vijay

Seems a corrupt operating system. You may also want to check for malware. Please run the MIcrosoft Onecare online scan and see if the problem is fixed. If not, you may have to reinstall the operating system.
Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Thursday, January 06, 2011, 4:39:40 PM IST

Vijay Nagane Jan 4, 2011 1:11 AM

search problem

my pc search option in start menu continiously searching same file from same location till i stopped

Arun Kumar, MVP Dec 29, 2010 11:18 AM

Hi giselle

It seems to be more like a corrupt OS. To make sure open the command prompt and type the following:
PING www.google.com
If the results show 0 packet loss, the network is correct where you need to reinstall the operating system. If the results show all 4 packets lost, the problem may be with network. You need to check with your ISP in the later case.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Wednesday, December 29, 2010, 9:55:31 PM IST

giselle Dec 28, 2010 1:46 PM

please help

I've tried everything and IE8 doesn't work. You can see the process running on the task manager, but the window for IE never opens. I did the reset, then reinstalled the IE8, and still doesn’t work, I created a rescue disk thinking that there was a virus and checked the system and nothing was found. I have check for spyware, virus and all I can think of … nothing seems to work. I installed other explorers such as chrome, and doesn’t work either, so I thought it was one of the windows libraries that is corrupted, so I run sfc and nothing… I run registry cleaners and nothing… Any help is highly appreciated. The OS is XP sp3

Anonymous Dec 27, 2010 2:51 PM

IE8 finally re-installed

Hi, I discovered that there were 2 'IE8' folders in the 'Windows' folder. I copied the contents of 'IE8(2)' to 'IE8' and then tried to uninstall IE8 one more time... it worked! No more "Can't Find File" messages. IE8 was then re-installed from fresh download and has been working ever since. Happy Holidays!

Mahesh Prajapati Dec 22, 2010 8:35 AM

Issue - Tab has been recovered

Hello Arun,

Could you please help me to fix the "Tab has been recovered" msg I am getting while loading the controls (COM+) controls. My page is getting refreshed and giving me "Tab has been recovered" msg.
Kindly let me know if you need any additional information on it.
Thanks in Advance.
Mahesh

Arun Kumar, MVP Nov 18, 2010 3:43 AM

Hi Supercruiser

You can try removing the elements of IE8 manually. Delete the Internet Explorer folder in Program Files. Check out each User profile in C Drive and delete files related to Internet Explorer. You use the Search Window to find other traces of Internet Explorer. This done, run a registry cleaner. See if this helps in removing and installing IE8. Also, when you run the installer, please shut down the antivirus to avoid further problems.
Let me know if this helped or if you found any other method.
Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Thursday, November 18, 2010, 2:20:20 PM IST

supercruiser Nov 17, 2010 10:58 PM

IE8 removal wizard can't copy file

I tried your advice to Candace (Oct.12) of installing fresh downloaded IE8 from Microsoft (using Safari because IE8 flashes and disappears when invoked) and the installer crashed. Experiencing the same "can't copy files" messages as Candace during removal wizard and am totally stuck. Can't uninstall or reinstall IE8!! I've even done system restores with zero results! Thankfully I have Safari to browse with. Should I just give-up or is there any other solutions beyond a re-format and re-install the OS?

arjunen Nov 14, 2010 5:12 PM

problem solved thanks

Hi Arun,
Followed instructions and solved problem, IE works fine saved a lot of time. Thanks great help!!
Arjunen

Arun Kumar, MVP Nov 6, 2010 3:16 AM

Hi Kerry

As you are not able to use Add/Remove programs to remove the IE8, I recommend manual deletion of the program. Delete the Internet Explorer folder from My Programs in C Drive. Explore the different user folders under Users (Windows 7) or All Users (Win XP). Remove all traces of any Internet Explorer folders you find. You can also use the Windows Search (Windows Key + F) to find hidden Internet Explorer files.
Having done that, run a computer cleaner like CCleaner to remove unwanted files and registry entries related to IE8.
Reboot and you should be able to find Internet Options working in the Control Panel. You can then directly install another version of Internet Explorer on your computer.
Please make a system restore point before performing the above actions in case you delete anything important.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Saturday, November 06, 2010, 12:52:48 PM IST

Kerry Nov 5, 2010 12:54 PM

IE Can't follow your directions

IE 8. Can not unistall it -- get file error messages, and when I open IE8 I can not access the Tools, Options, etc all the tabs you keep referring to.. all I see is a bunch of down arrows that do nothing. I have no malware or virus. Have run Trend Micro, AVG, Malwarebyte's antimalware, etc etc.. So that is not the issue... Help? I have tried to reinstall it over and over again, none of the fixes work from any website I have gone to.

Arun Kumar, MVP Nov 5, 2010 12:09 PM

Hi Chohan

Thanks for sharing the fix. This will help many others. Hope you too are in good health.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Friday, November 05, 2010, 9:46:28 PM IST

chohan Nov 5, 2010 12:05 PM

ie8 trouble

hello Arun
hope you are well and in good health i have some good news for you i have managed to uninstall IE8 and installed again after reaching the complete dead end,
here is how i saw a commit on a forum i can't remember which some one said to try deleting all the IE8 files in all users personal file i did that then tried to reinstall IE8 and after a long time it seems to have done the trick !!!!,
i now have Internet options back along with the menu bar back in the IE browser and after enabling a few adds-on i have the attachment back in live email,
IE along with FireFox and safari all browser working better then before and have learned so much in the process about the computer is amazing,trial and error in essence proved fruitful again THANK GOD ALMIGHT!!!
good day or good night which ever applies to you

Arun Kumar, MVP Oct 29, 2010 8:29 AM

@ chohan

You may try to uninstall the Flash player and then the IE8... though I sense a corrupt operating system. Please see if uninstalling Flash helps. If not, the only option I see is to reinstall ( a clean reinstall with format) of the operating system.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Friday, October 29, 2010, 6:06:15 PM IST

Chohan Oct 29, 2010 4:27 AM

ie8 troubles

Arun
i forgot to mention that i still cannot access the internet option in control panel this happen at the exact time my ie8 troubles started,and yet everything else seem to work fine.
regards Chohan

chohan Oct 29, 2010 4:20 AM

ie6 troubleshoot

Hello Arun
in regards to my ie8 uninstall trouble i have managed to run al my anti virus in safe mode and all show clean report the malwarebytes ant- maleware showed there were a few but the one was a fake alert in win32 that leaned the pc although i cannot still uninstall ie8 but everything else is working fine in firefox 3.6 browser,
i remember now where my troubles started i was watching youtube and suddenly "upgrade flash player" came up i installed this then it said some file names have been changed to load this successfully ,this happened in a flash i am a novice in this computer lark.
is this why ie8 cannot uninstall because the files it is looking for the names have been changed ?.
anyway i am to use firefox it is actully running better then ie.

regards Chohan

Arun Kumar, MVP Oct 29, 2010 3:27 AM

Hi Femo

Did you try the IE RESET? Open the Internet Options and go to the Advanced tab. Click on the last button on the dialog. It is labeled RESET. This should fix the problem. Please let me know if the problem persists.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Friday, October 29, 2010, 1:03:28 PM IST

Femo Oct 28, 2010 1:45 PM

IE will not work,

Hi Arun,

I cannot log on to the internet as my IE keep kicking me out of the broswer after a few seconds of trying to log into the net. What could be causing this and most importantly do you have any recommendations as to how to fix this problem.

Regards,
Femo

Arun Kumar, MVP Oct 23, 2010 4:08 AM

Hi Ashish

I suspect malware in your computer. Please run Microsoft Onecare Online Scan or Norton ONline scan and see the results. You may later try to remove the IE from Control Panel if the scan is successful. Also, while reinstalling IE9, please turn off the anti virus as they sometimes delete the temporary files resulting in a corrupt IE.

Please let me know if this helped

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Saturday, October 23, 2010, 1:45:06 PM IST

Ashish Lanjewar Oct 22, 2010 2:23 PM

About ie8 working

Actually..i was using ie8 with no error at all since one month.But one day it show error in site google.com this site cant be open,it everytime show me error. Then i had already ie8 installation file so i directly go for clicking on this file and reinstall.Now it show ie8 update and some process is done. After that it instruct me to restart as some problem in system.After restarting it extracting files create troubleshooting file and now when i click on shortcut of ie8 nothing is done.please tell me what should i do so that it can work like previous days.I will also work remove method of control panel..it was also not work.....

Anonymous Oct 21, 2010 5:05 AM

Arun thanks for your reply i had much about reach this dead end my self was hoping for a magic cure (joke) but i don't have the boot cd this pc came preloaded but thanks for your have a good with happiness and long life.
regards Chohan

Arun Kumar, MVP Oct 21, 2010 4:40 AM

Seems that the computer is still infected. I see no other way than performing a clean reinstall of the Operating system (Boot from Disk and install).

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Thursday, October 21, 2010, 2:16:50 PM IST

chohan Oct 21, 2010 4:33 AM

uninstall ie8

Arun i have tried almost everything to remove ie8 but have not been successful,i have lost ie8 in add and remove in control panel and cannot access internet options won't open and have lost tool menu in the ie browser,when i try to uninstall i keep getting cannot copy this file and that file every time i tried and in the registry i cannot locate internet options or no browser option have all the different route i found in Google help forum,i had a virus which stop my access to internet browser although i managed to rid this with malwarebyte anti-malware all other functions seems to be working fine ,just this i can't open internet options and have no tool menu and cannot uninstall or install ie8 PLEASE HELP!!!!!!!!!!

Arun Kumar, MVP Oct 12, 2010 12:59 PM

Hi Candace

You are speaking about uninstalling, right? I would recommend that you download a fresh IE8 installer, turn off antivirus and start reinstallation straightaway - without trying to uninstall the current IE8. This fixes the problem in many cases. Please let me know if this helped.

Regards,
Arun
Signed: Tuesday, October 12, 2010, 10:34:49 PM IST

Candace Oct 12, 2010 11:33 AM

IE8 - can not fix or re-install

Windows XP, fully updated Windows Updates. Can not reinstall, uninstall -- using Ccleaner, advanced system care forced uninstall, Windows IE Removal Wizard etc etc IE8. Can not see or access the tools menu, any of the drop down menu's etc.so your tips don't work. The right click button does not work, nor does ctrl c for copying either --only with IE8. When trying to uninstall the first error message I get (quite a few after this one) is : Copy Error Setup can not copy the file hmmapi.dll.mui --If I try to proceed anyways, the next error is Copy error cannot copy the file iexplore.exe.mui If I keep on going the next error is : Copy Error Setup cannot copy the file ieakmmc.chm and so on....... HELP??

Arun Kumar, MVP Sep 4, 2010 3:34 AM

Hi Kevin

It is better not to take risk as sometimes the IE8 does not import favorites on its own. So it would be something like this:

1. Download IE8 installer from Microsoft.
2. Use File -> Export options to export your favorites to a safe location.
3. Remove the existing installation
4. Close Anti Virus
5. Install IE8 and see if it has the favorites.
6. If not, then use File -> Import option to import the favorites to the new Installation.

Check if the browser is still presenting the problem of Stack overflow. If yes, use Tools menu -> Internet Options -> Advanced tab -> Reset button to reset the IE.

This should fix all the problems.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Saturday, September 04, 2010, 1:09:11 PM IST

kevin Sep 3, 2010 3:21 PM

re IE8 reinstall.

arun, thanks for the reply, will my favorites migrate to the new install?

also do i download IE8 using IE8 will it just install over what i have?

so i should remove the exsisting one before or after i download the new one.

if you could number the steps for me that would be great.

thanks again for the reply...

Arun Kumar, MVP Sep 3, 2010 3:31 AM

I guess an IE reset would have solved the problem of stack overflow (Tools -> Internet Options -> Advanced -> Reset). As of now, it seems that the wizard removed some components of the IE8 so I would not advise you to use it as it may or may not contain the security ones. It is better to go for a reinstall. Please download the IE8 from Microsoft website. Remove the existing installation. Please turn off the antivirus before using the download to install the IE8.
This should fix all the issues.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Friday, September 03, 2010, 1:06:06 PM IST

kevin Sep 3, 2010 3:18 AM

help with IE 8 please thanks Arun

hi there, i was wondering if you can help me to figure out whats going on. im runnin XP and IE8.

i first started to get "stack overflow on line 0" and alot of page not responding prompts and hangs. went to try to track down the issue. im my search i figured i would "repair 8" through add/remove. i guess its not like 6 or 7 repair. at any rate i got to the box where i got the removal wizard. i clicked next and then the next again and i saw files starting to delte and i panicked. i eventually shut the computer down mid process and i really dont know what damage i did if anything because i dont know what comes at the end of the wizard.

anyway everything seems to be running ok, however went i went to export my favorites to file i could normally add the date to the file path and i would still get active links when i opened up the file.

now however, i get the open with box and if i choose IE i get DOCTYPE NETSCAPE-Bookmark-file-1> with just a ton of text last visit etc etc.... no active link.

as i said i would normally be able to change the end of the file path name and get active link bookmarks (where i could just click on them in the file)

my question is basically, what did i do? and how bad did i mess up and what can i do to check to see if all my files are in IE and running ok without re-installing.... in the end i still have the stack overflow issues and page not responding issues :)

long night.... hopefully you can share with me what i can do if anything.... thanks!!!!

i came to your site through my research on trying to figure this out. any help much appreciated.

Arun Kumar, MVP Sep 2, 2010 3:30 AM

Hi Barb

Please use Control Panel --> Java to adjust the Java settings for browsers.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Thursday, September 02, 2010, 1:04:26 PM IST

Barb Sep 1, 2010 4:30 PM

Java

I have no option to adjust settings in Internet Explorer 8 for Java. JAVA is not listed in ADVANCED settings.

Anonymous Aug 30, 2010 10:37 AM

Hi thanks all!

Arun Kumar, MVP Aug 30, 2010 8:17 AM

Hi TNBK

If the installer is not downloading, you can use the Turn ON/OFF Windows Features in Add/Remove Programs of Control Panel to reinstall the IE8. Just click on the Turn OFF/ON Windows features and look for IE8. Click on the check box against IE8 and reboot. This method will also give you the IE8.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Monday, August 30, 2010, 5:52:01 PM IST

TNBK Aug 30, 2010 8:04 AM

When i click on download IE 8, It has message like this:
"Trying to download Internet Explorer 8 for Windows 7? You already have it.
Internet Explorer 8 is included in Windows 7 so no installation is necessary. To begin browsing with Internet Explorer 8, click on the "e" logo next to your Start button on the Windows taskbar"
u can check with this link (use other browsers on win 7 after u uninstall IE 8): http://www.microsoft.com/windows/internet-explorer/worldwide-sites.aspx

Arun Kumar, MVP Aug 30, 2010 7:29 AM

Microsoft does support IE8 for Windows 7. If you need to install it, just download IE8 installer from Microsoft website (not third party websites), turn off antivirus, and run the installer. That should install the IE8 again.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Monday, August 30, 2010, 5:04:06 PM IST

TNBK Aug 30, 2010 7:14 AM

Thanks!

Thank you for your help! I fixed this problem. I uninstall and reinstall by choosing in "Turn Windows feature on or off". But when u say "Download the IE8 installer from Microsoft website", i don'i think Microsoft support IE 8 for window 7

Arun Kumar, MVP Aug 30, 2010 3:25 AM

Hi Richey

I am sorry your question is not clear. If you are saying that the IE is crashing after you downloaded opera and firefox, you need to reset the IE. To reset IE, open Internet Options from the Tools menu. Go to the Advanced tab and click reset. Click on OK and restart the browser.

If opera and firefox are crashing, I may not be able to assist as I never used these.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Monday, August 30, 2010, 12:59:19 PM IST

Richey Aug 29, 2010 1:21 PM

pls help to solve some problem

when i download opera and moziller fire fox, it keep crashing and automaticaly disapear. what will i do.???

Arun Kumar, MVP Aug 29, 2010 3:17 AM

Here is a fix for different problems that IE8 creates under Windows 7:

http://www.brighthub.com/hubfolio/arun-kumar-m/media/p/62303.aspx

Please run the code and see if it helps. If not, you can remove the IE8 using the following steps:

1. Close all programs after saving your work as your computer may reboot after uninstallation.
2. Click Start, and then click Control Panel.
3. Under Programs, click Uninstall a program.
4. In the tasks pane, click Turn Windows features on or off.
5. In the list of windows features, clear the check box next to Internet Explorer 8.
6. You receive a warning message in a pop-up window. Click Yes.
IE8 will be uninstalled and system may reboot. You need to download IE8 installer before you can reinstall it. Download the IE8 installer from Microsoft website and turn off the antivirus/firewall. Run the installer to install IE8.

Please let me know if the problem still remains.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Sunday, August 29, 2010, 12:51:08 PM IST

TNBK Aug 28, 2010 9:34 PM

what about windows 7?

Sorry if i reply incorrect topic.
I have a problem with IE 8 in window 7. when i start IE, it has a problem with this error : :res://ieframe.dll/acr_error.htm# then it automatic restart IE again and again. But I don't know how to reinstall IE 8 in win 7 because microsoft does not support it. Please help me!

TNBK Aug 28, 2010 9:33 PM

what about window 7?

Sorry if i reply incorrect topic.
I have a problem with IE 8 in window 7. when i start IE, it has a problem with this error : :res://ieframe.dll/acr_error.htm# then it automatic restarts IE again and again. But I don't know how to reinstall IE 8 in win 7 because microsoft does not support it. Please help me!

Arun Kumar, MVP Aug 25, 2010 3:22 AM

Hi Mahesh

Check the Add/Remove Programs in the Control Panel if the IE8 is still showing. If it is showing, please remove it. If it is not, probably the IE8 is no longer on your computer.

Download "IE8 for Google" and close the antivirus. Run the file you downloaded. After download is complete, IE8 will open. See if it is working. If you face problems, open Internet Options from the Tools menu and in the dialog box, select Advanced. Click on the Reset button. Close IE8 and Start it again. This should fix any problem.

Please let me know if this helped.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Wednesday, August 25, 2010, 12:56:06 PM IST

mahesh Aug 24, 2010 11:58 PM

Internet explorar

tHello sir,
i m install internet explorar 8 But my brother remove the internet explorar. Then explorar r not open. Thn plz wht can i do.

Arun Kumar, MVP Aug 20, 2010 3:57 AM

I suppose some components of IE are creating problems. You can try a reset and see if it works. To reset IE, open Internet Options from the Tools menu or Control Panel. Select the Advanced tab and click on the Reset button. Restart the browser. This should fix the problem.

If the above does not work, I recommend using Google's version of IE8. Its the same IE8 but slightly optimized for Google products. Please download it from http://www.google.com/toolbar/ie8

After the download, remove the current version of IE and run a registry cleaner. Turn off the antivirus and run the downloaded installer. Please let me know if this solves the problem.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Friday, August 20, 2010, 1:31:11 PM IST

Paul Aug 19, 2010 3:58 PM

Hi Arun,
Also Ive just tried running:
Iexplore.exe -extoff
and my IE is just completely hung. Oh I need some help. ps I have run anti-virus a few times and its fine.
Just my laptop that is as slow as a dog when IE is sitting there.
Oh please help Arun.
thanks
Paul

Paul Wright Aug 19, 2010 2:03 PM

IE Ruining my life

Hi Arun,
My IE is hanging etc as above. I've tried unistalling IE. And re-installing, and uploaded a new yahoo - (it helped the load speed a bit) - I still have the same issue. When I click on the toolbar and trying to get in to tools - I get a send error and dr watson.IE will not allow me to install active X. I cant seem to go backwards or forwards.I have an oem istalled XP sp3 system, but have never taken a recovery disk copy of the os. What can I do to fix the issue? The only other option is never use IE I suppose. Many thanks Paul

Akmal Aug 11, 2010 4:46 AM

THANK YOU`

That was help full!
I was getting error message everytime I openned a new page. I reset the sttings as recomended in this article. It helped! Great! Thank you.

Arun Kumar, MVP Aug 7, 2010 3:27 AM

Hi David

If you are not able to see Internet Explorer on your computer, you can use the process to get back IE6.
However, I am not sure that the antimalware can remove IE. I guess it removed only the icon. Please check the Program Files -> Internet Explorer Folder. If you can see iexplore.exe, you can right click there and create an icon by selecting Send To ->Desktop.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Saturday, August 07, 2010, 1:00:50 PM IST

David Aug 6, 2010 8:22 PM

Reinstalling IE on windows XP

Hey Arun, I recently downloaded the webroot spysweeper on my comp and ran a scan. It had identified several things as potentially harmful, and I got rid of all of them. After going back, I believe that one of the things I got rid of was the Internet explorer on my comp.. This is my work computer, so I need to get the internet back ASAP. Do you think the above procedure of putting "systemroot%\inf in the "RUN" bar and following the directions will work in getting my IE back? Or do you have any ideas as to how to get my internet back on to my desktop?? I thank you for your help in advance. I DESPERATLEY could use some before my boss finds out . Thank you

Arun Kumar, MVP Jul 31, 2010 3:57 AM

Hi Ravi

This is explained in the second section: Goto Control Panel -> Add/Remove programs. If you can see the IE8, just click on uninstall. Once the uninstall is done, you will get back the IE6. Run a registry cleaner and reinstall the IE8 using its installer. You can get the installer for IE8 on the Internet or you can use Windows Update (Tools menu -> Windows Update) to upgrade to IE8.

If you are not able to see IE8 in the Add/Remove programs, you must have installed it prior to installing SP3. In this case, you have to remove SP3 before you can uninstall IE8. Rest of the process is same as above.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Saturday, July 31, 2010, 1:30:14 PM IST

Arun Kumar, MVP Jul 31, 2010 3:52 AM

Hi Tanya

I suspect a components clash. Did this start appearing after you installed any program or update?
Anyways, please open Internet Options in the Control Panel and go to the Advanced tab. Click the RESET button on the tab and restart the browser. This should fix the problem.

If the problem stays, please get back with details of your Operating System and if the problem started after you installed any program...

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Saturday, July 31, 2010, 1:25:06 PM IST

Ravi Jul 31, 2010 3:48 AM

How to reinstall internet explore in SP3

Please tell me how to reinstall internet explore in SP3

Tanya Gorelik Jul 30, 2010 9:25 PM

Internet explorer 8

Hello,

When I try to open Internet Explorer, the only thing that comes up is all of the tabs and buttons at the top of the window, but nothing shows up where the actual website should be. This happens with all websites on this browser but not on other browsers, so I think it has to do with the browser itself.

Arun Kumar, MVP Jul 28, 2010 3:34 AM

Hi Ida

This is an isolated case - I never heard such thing before. Please try the System Restore to get the Advanced tab back. Log into Windows XP under safe mode (Press F8 while booting). Upon booting, Windows will present you with a screen. Click No and System Restore will open in few seconds. Select a date when the problem was not there and click Yes. It will take a while before the computer restarts. After the restart, you should be able to see the Advanced tab.

If you removed the virus after you noticed the problem, I would recommend you to scan the computer again as System Restore may affect its existence too.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Wednesday, July 28, 2010, 1:06:46 PM IST

Ida Tomlinson Jul 27, 2010 9:28 PM

Internet Options advanced toolbar is missing

I am running Windows XP service pack 3. All of a sudden, the advanced toolbar is no longer there under Internet options. I did have a virus and have removed that. Can you please give me step by step instructions on how to get the advance tab back. I am running IE 8. thanks for your immediate help.

Arun Kumar, MVP Jul 11, 2010 5:46 AM

Hi Roberta

Actually, the System Restore works on Hard Disk Imaging techniques so you do not need the installation disks. It will just undo any changes made to your computer after the date you select. Please note that you may be asked to update your virus definitions once the System Restore is complete. Also, any Windows Updates installed between the date of System Restore and the checkpoint date you select while restoring, will be installed again.

If you face any major problems after System Restore, you can always UNDO the restore using the same procedure.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Sunday, July 11, 2010, 3:18:19 PM IST

Roberta Catizone Jul 11, 2010 4:49 AM

rollback

Hi Arun,

Ok, thanks. I will try it. Does Rollback require that I have the OS disks?

best,
catizone

Arun Kumar, MVP Jul 11, 2010 3:50 AM

Hi Catizone

You can try the RESET thing to see if there are any conflicts. If it does not work, I would suggest you go for a rollback. Open System Restore (All Programs -> Accessories -> System Tools) and select a date when Crazy Talk was working. This should fix the problem.

Regards,
Arun,
Signed: Sunday, July 11, 2010, 1:22:06 PM IST

Catizone Jul 10, 2010 6:08 PM

Problem with Crazy Talk in IE 6

I'm having a problem running CrazyTalk in my IE 6 bowser even though it used to work. Will resetting help this?

thanks,
catizone

Arun Kumar, MVP May 31, 2010 3:37 AM

Hi Jack,

Removing the bug (malware) can also fix the issue. Please read our article on IE8 redirect problems. Here is the link:

http://www.brighthub.com/computing/windows-platform/articles/60039.aspx

--
Best Regards,
Arun Kumar M.
Twitter: @DreamsCentral
Signed: Monday, May 31, 2010, 1:08:03 PM IST

Jack Laufer May 30, 2010 4:23 PM

ie 8 redirect virus

My computer picked up a bug which will redirect IE and cause other issues. Will re-installing IE fix the problem?

Jack

Arun Kumar, MVP May 29, 2010 5:38 AM

Hi Harley

The favorites are stored in C:\Documents... depending upon your OS and user profile. You can use the search feature to locate the exact folder. Type the name of a favorite in the search box and check hidden and system folders and search. The search will return the folder where it locates the favorite you entered. Open the folder and see if it is the one containing all favorites. If yes, you can delete the folder contents to get rid of all the favorites.
In Windows XP, the folder would normally be: C:\Documents and Settings\PROFILE NAME\Favorites.

--
Best Regards,
Arun Kumar M.
Twitter: @DreamsCentral
Signed: Saturday, May 29, 2010, 3:08:34 PM IST

Arun Kumar, MVP May 29, 2010 5:33 AM

Hi Dayanand

You can search Microsoft for IE6. They have a split version that may help you reinstall IE6.

Harley Prentiss May 28, 2010 12:11 PM

IE8 Favorites Folders

Is there a way to mass delete favorites when cleaning out these files. Thanks
Harley

dayanand May 28, 2010 6:56 AM

le7

i fnot found file le.inf then how we can repair it

Arun Kumar, MVP May 23, 2010 3:48 AM

Hi Kurian

This fix should solve the problem of IE8 on Windows 7:

http://www.brighthub.com/hubfolio/arun-kumar-m/media/p/62303.aspx

--
Best Regards,
Arun Kumar M.
Twitter: @DreamsCentral
Signed: Sunday, May 23, 2010, 1:18:48 PM IST

Kurian May 22, 2010 8:25 AM

I E hyperlink problem

hey Arun how to solve the ineternet explorer hyperlink problem in windows 7 as what you said to uninstall ie 8 from windows 7 there is no option for it in the add remove progrmas as its embbed with windows 7 we can choose from programs to uncheck it but it will still remain and nothing can be possible

Ryan Johnson May 21, 2010 12:57 AM

Marc A.

i would suggest that you also use Microsoft Security Essentials as a virus program. i like it on all 3 of my hope pc's and the ones that i work on. alot better than norton. it's free too from microsoft.

salehahmad May 10, 2010 6:50 AM

hello

hi arun
now what i have done is download windows bit defender. scan the pc with it and to my utter surprise it found 120 more attacks and all of them were trojans. Heaving a sigh of relief as all of them were deleted by eset. Next disconnecting the internet i did a repair install of windows and then installed the zonealarm firewall. now everything is working properly. thanx arun once again.tc

salehahmad May 9, 2010 6:25 AM

thanx

probably this is the most safesest solution at this instant. thanx again for ur valuable time. i have a disk imaging software fortunately. so no prob.
take care.

Arun Kumar, MVP May 9, 2010 5:02 AM

Hi Salehahmad

The easiest and SAFEST way here would be a clean reinstallation of the OS. I am not sure if the system is fully safe even after you ran the scan. As it was infected, it may again get to the same condition even if traces of the malware are left on the computer.

I would suggest you backup all important data and clean install Windows (from the CD Drive). Format the C drive, if you have only one OS installed. Most of the malware are resident on C drive. If you have another OS on C, you should reinstall it too.

If you have a router, you can simply use Zonealarm as Firewall. That would make it two firewalls - a hardware and a software firewall. Too many firewalls and anti malware often ruin the computing experience. For antimalware, I would suggest Windows Defender (from Microsoft website). You can use any anti virus. If you need a free one, you can get either Comodo (from Comodo.com) or MSE (Microsoft Security Essentials from Microsoft website).

This done, download and install the "IE8 Optimized for Google". Everything will be fresh and clean. You may want to create a disk image here so that you can use it in future. If you do not have a disk imaging software, you may use FREE Macrium Reflect. More information on Macrium Reflect is available at:
http://www.brighthub.com/computing/hardware/articles/60572.aspx

I am asking you to format and reinstall the OS to avoid future possibilities of attacks again. Hope you understand.

Best Regards,
Arun Kumar,
Signed: Sunday, May 09, 2010, 2:30:39 PM IST

salehahmad May 9, 2010 4:41 AM

a bit of problem again plzz give me a solution about IE.

sir i did as per you said but the page still displays "the web page can't be displayed." may be i have 2 mention some points 2 you to make you a bit more aware of my pc conditions.
n.b these all happened before i FIRST COMMENTED 2 you.
1. as i WAS using eset nod 32 latest version it used to block some url attacks may be intruders trying to hack into my pc.
2. following instructions from certain website i did a repair install of windows and got rid of that problem"WEBPAGE CAN'T BE DISPLAYED" for may be 2-3 hrs. and then again this problem started to come up saying the "web page can't be displayed".but the problem mentioned in number 1 was solved.
3. aftere this i had completed a full scan of my pc and 3 infilterations have been found and cleaned as well as some were quarantined.ALL WERE SYSTEM 32 FILES. I STILL HAVE DA LIST.
4.after that following instructions from another website i browsed the pc for the following file "C:\WINDOWS\system32\drivers\etc\hosts" and opened the file with notepad and found
# Copyright (c) 1993-1999 Microsoft Corp.
#
# This is a sample HOSTS file used by Microsoft TCP/IP for Windows.
#
# This file contains the mappings of IP addresses to host names. Each
# entry should be kept on an individual line. The IP address should
# be placed in the first column followed by the corresponding host name.
# The IP address and the host name should be separated by at least one
# space.
#
# Additionally, comments (such as these) may be inserted on individual
# lines or following the machine name denoted by a '#' symbol.
#
# For example:
#
# 102.54.94.97 rhino.acme.com # source server
# 38.25.63.10 x.acme.com # x client host

127.0.0.1 localhost
there were something more written alongside this i can remember. lot of url names and at last written THIS HAS BEEN EDITED BY SPYBOT.
but after i installed it again as i mentioned in my previous comment this problem was also solved.
now my pc RUNS but without IE.

Arun Kumar, MVP May 4, 2010 3:47 AM

Hi Marc

Thanks for informing.

--
Best Regards,
Arun Kumar M.
Signed: Tuesday, May 04, 2010, 1:18:16 PM IST

Arun Kumar, MVP May 4, 2010 3:36 AM

I would suggest that you download "IE8 Optimized for Google" from the Internet. It is a tweaked version from Google and is more stable. Remove the current IE if it is visible in Add/Remove Programs of Control Panel. Before you run the IE8 downloaded installer, turn off the antivirus so that you dont have any problems later. Once the installation is complete, you can turn on the antivirus.

This will fix the issue.

--
Best Regards,
Arun Kumar M.
Twitter: @DreamsCentral
Signed: Tuesday, May 04, 2010, 1:06:54 PM IST

Marc C. May 4, 2010 2:55 AM

Win7 Repair Solved It

After trying everything, a Windows 7 Repair Procedure solved our issues.
Thanks

salehahmad May 3, 2010 1:51 PM

sir plzz help

after installng the ieexplore.exe as you have mentioned from the service pack 3 cd ,it says the following
"error in iesetup.dll
missing entry:IEAccessSysInst"

plzz help me
my ie is not working any way.

Arun Kumar, MVP May 3, 2010 7:17 AM

RE: IE8 issues

Digital signatures are normally used to check if a file or email is genuine. Same applies to websites.
Depending upon the certificate that AVG is showing as broken, you may choose to update the certificates. If you are using any digital sign for sending your emails, you may want to update it. If it is a MS certificate, you may update all of them using the following link:

http://bit.ly/dpV2Co

It can also be a digital sign for a third party application such as Adobe. In such case, it is not easy to find the digital signs. Here, you can reinstall and install the application that your AVG shows as carrying a broken digital sign.

If it is related to IE8, you better reinstall it to get the latest digisigns for all applications on your computer.

Please let me know if this helped! It would have been easier if I could get the name of file (or a screenshot; you can access my mail ID from the website in signature below) that your AVG is showing as corrupt. :)

--
Best Regards,
Arun Kumar M.
http://dreams-central.com
Twitter: @DreamsCentral
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DreamsCentral
Signed: Monday, May 03, 2010, 4:46:47 PM IST

colin.hayes@ntlworld.com May 3, 2010 6:29 AM

IE8 issues

I keep getting a warning on AVG scan that I have a broken digital signature. Is this important? If so, how do I fix this problem, re-download and re-instal?? Thanks. Greezmunki.

Arun Kumar, MVP May 3, 2010 5:06 AM

I am sorry there is some problem with the comment moderation system. Its not allowing me to allow comments at the moment.

Sometimes you get the message "Access Denied" but when you reboot, IE8 works normally. Please reboot and check.

If you are still facing the problems, note down the full path of wininet.dll on your computer (using search feature). I would suggest you rename it and download a fresh version of the DLL from

http://www.dll-files.com/dllindex/dll-files.shtml?wininet

Once you download it, copy it to the folder where you renamed the previous file. After copying, type RegSVr32 wininet.dll in the RUN dialog box. Reboot again and see if it solves the issue. If not, the only option I can see is to reinstall the entire OS again.

--
Best Regards,
Arun Kumar M.
http://dreams-central.com
Twitter: @DreamsCentral
Signed: Monday, May 03, 2010, 2:35:16 PM IST

Arun Kumar, MVP May 3, 2010 4:11 AM

You can fix the problem by reinstalling the OS. However, I would ask you to try this before you go for a total reinstallation of Win7. The following is link to a readymade fix that solves several problems related to IE8 on Win7. Though not sure, if the following can stop crashing, you will be saved from reinstallation of the OS:

http://www.brighthub.com/hubfolio/arun-kumar-m/media/p/62303.aspx

Please let me know if it helped.

--
Best Regards,
Arun Kumar M.
http://dreams-central.com
Twitter: @DreamsCentral
Signed: Monday, May 03, 2010, 1:42:07 PM IST

Marc C. May 2, 2010 4:39 PM

Continuous Crash of IE8 (Wininet.dll)

I'm running IE8 on Win7 Enterprise and it crashes immediately on loading. Only with "iexplore about:blank" can I get in. I've tried everything you suggested Arun. All addons, webclips and search providers are disabled. All dlls reregistered. All settings reset. IE8 removed and added again. sfc tells me wininet.dll is corrupt but I have no way of restoring it. This crash causes all sorts of other pps (e.g. MSWord) to crash. Even the setup of IE8 doesn't work and crashes.
Version=1
EventType=APPCRASH
EventTime=129173033376230715
ReportType=2
Consent=1
ReportIdentifier=be96329c-5623-11df-9359-0027136881fe
IntegratorReportIdentifier=be96329b-5623-11df-9359-0027136881fe
Response.type=4
Sig[0].Name=Application Name
Sig[0].Value=IEXPLORE.EXE
Sig[1].Name=Application Version
Sig[1].Value=8.0.7600.16385
Sig[2].Name=Application Timestamp
Sig[2].Value=4a5bc69e
Sig[3].Name=Fault Module Name
Sig[3].Value=WININET.dll
Sig[4].Name=Fault Module Version
Sig[4].Value=8.0.7600.16535
Sig[5].Name=Fault Module Timestamp
Sig[5].Value=4b83892d
Sig[6].Name=Exception Code
Sig[6].Value=c0000005
Sig[7].Name=Exception Offset
Sig[7].Value=00030cf7
DynamicSig[1].Name=OS Version
DynamicSig[1].Value=6.1.7600.2.0.0.256.4
DynamicSig[2].Name=Locale ID
DynamicSig[2].Value=2055

liberty Apr 19, 2010 8:19 AM

Reinstallation of IE7

If I would like to try a restore of IE7 on a XP PRO SP3 PC::

Which folders should be restored?

Must the restore be made in SAFE mode?

phil Apr 17, 2010 6:33 AM

thanks for the good work and presentation. My IE 8 had to be reset. It did work.

ali Apr 3, 2010 5:55 AM

thanxxx u solved my problem:)

Marc A. Mar 27, 2010 6:02 AM

Thank you-

Arun-
Thank you very much for taking the time to guide me on how to resolve my computer issues. I really appreciate it! Best wishes to you.

Arun Kumar, MVP Mar 27, 2010 4:17 AM

You will have to back up all the data on C drive (the drive where you installed Windows XP), especially the MyDocuments and subfolders therein; any data on Desktop; and even your Favorites. Other than these, if you have any data (not programs) on C drive, you have to backup them as well. You will also need device drivers once you reinstall the Windows. Also, programs have to be reinstalled.

Thanks for posting the error message. It further confirms that the system is corrupt.

If you have the Restore Factory Defaults button on your model, you can use that option to make things easier (that is, if your Dell came with XP else use a XP installation CD).

Hope this fixes all your problems,

--
Best Regards,
Arun Kumar M.
Twitter: @DreamsCentral
LinkedIN: Linkedin.com/in/DreamsCentral
Signed: Saturday, March 27, 2010, 1:45:05 PM IST

Marc A. Mar 26, 2010 8:12 PM

additional information to my previous post

Arun- I get the following error message when i run the dell diagnostics on my computer:
error-
system error structure count error. found 31 expected 50 structures.
Does that shed any light on my problem?

Marc A. Mar 26, 2010 6:54 PM

followup question to cleanreinstall of windows xp

Arun-If I do a clean reinstall of windows XP, will all of my documents,picutres,music,etc. still be there?
Or: Do I have to back these items up as well as all the programs I have added to my computer,Norton,etc and reinstall these as well? Is it possible to do a clean reinstall of Windows Xp only without reinstalling all of the other programs?
Also- thank you very much for answering my first post. I appreciate it very much!
Please advise on the best procedure to do a clean install.

Arun Kumar, MVP Mar 26, 2010 10:15 AM

The symptoms indicate a corrupt operating system. As you said that you ran MSRT, its not Conficker. The only solution I can see here is to clean reinstall the entire Windows XP.

--
Best Regards,
Arun Kumar M.
Twitter: @DreamsCentral
LinkedIN: Linkedin.com/in/DreamsCentral
Signed: Friday, March 26, 2010, 7:45:42 PM IST

Marc A. Mar 26, 2010 8:37 AM

How do I fix Internet Explorer?

I think my Internet Explorer has been corrupted and I am looking for your input on how to resolve this issue-
here is a list of some of the problems I am encountering:
1. when I hold the cursor on the bar on the right hand side of my display to scroll down, the screen keeps refreshing as I scroll down instead of just moving down smoothly.
2. the standby button is greyed out on the shut down tab-just restart or shutdown are available.
3. I cannot open internet explorer on my computer-when I click on the icon the hourglass appears but then goes away.
4. I cannot open the recycle bucket.
5. I cannot drag icons to the recycle bucket.
6. I get an hourglass that constantly flashes on and off momentarily next to my cursor as if a program is trying to open,but never does. This keeps happening.
7. I went into add/remove programs and was going to remove IE7 and reload it but I get the following message: This program removes windows XP and restores your previous configuration. To remove windows XP click next.
I only want to remove IE7, not XP.
Some additional information:
I am running Windows XP SP2, Version 5.1
I am running a raid setup(mirror)
Windows XP loads on my computer when I turn it on and I can run firefox without a problem.
I ran microsoft malicious software removal tool March 2010 and did a complete scan of my system. There were no items to remove. took 2 hours to run.
I never installed SP3.
Microsoft and windows update will not run.
I am running norton internet security on my system.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Haresh Rajpal Mar 2, 2010 3:17 PM

thanks

Thanks a lot, your article helped me...

Belgian Chairs Feb 20, 2010 11:11 PM

thank you very much!

I have had major issues with IE 8. I have been searching all over the web for a fix and could not find a coherent one. Your clear and concise instructions did the trick. I am running IE 7 though as IE 8 was too bad of an experience to go back to as of just yet. Thanks again for taking the time to offfer your help.

Moses Jan 10, 2010 4:45 AM

thank you

I have had problems with ie8 since last year, and now I would like to thank you for your help. Resetting was just easy and made my ie easy to use.

Thank you so much for your help

Arun Kumar, MVP Dec 21, 2009 10:56 AM

@Tim Baker

Hi,

I sorry to hear the trouble. There is only one method:

1. Remove SP3 from Add/Remove Programs.
2. Uninstall IE8
3. Run a registry cleaner (Comodo, Ccleaner or anything better you know)
4. Download a fresh copy of "IE8 optimized for Google" instead of normal IE8 installer.
5. Turn off your Automatic Updates, Antivirus and Firewall. These often create problems installing IE8, assuming temp files as Trojans.
6. Run the installer.
Once the browser is installed and you can use it, turn on the antivirus, firewall, and updates.

Remember that if you intend to install SP3 again, do it before you install the IE8, else you may face similar problems again.

Please let me know if this solved your problem.

--
Best Regards,
Arun Kumar M.
Twitter: @DreamsCentral
Signed: Monday, December 21, 2009, 9:34:00 PM IST

Tim Baker Dec 21, 2009 9:22 AM

Reinstalling IE8 immpossible?

I ntried to remove IE8 from my computer and while it was restarting it crashed terribly. Apparantly I did not know that it cannot be removed after installing XP SP3. It barely opens now and is missing all the links on the tool bar and will not download anything from the internet.
I am sure this has happened to others but I can not find a fix. I tried reinstalling IE8 from Microsoft. After downloading a message tells me that I already have it and will not continue. I looked into installing the previous version ie7 but it is not allowed and doesn't appear anywhere on my system.
Any ideas?

Kiel Dec 14, 2009 10:35 PM

Thank you very much for helping me to fix my IE8.

Budhy Oct 12, 2009 4:47 AM

Thank you very much for your help, now my IE8 is working properly again

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