PC locks up when typing in the Run window

[anpease]

Hi,
Whenever I click on "Start" and then go to type anything in the "Run Window" (eg. msconfig, regedit etc.) I get as far as typing 3 letters and then it locks up, and eventually I get a message saying Windows Explorer has stopped working.
I have tried to do a System Restore, but it fails to load the old registry settings.
I have run Spyware and Virus programs, and updated Drivers, and do not know what else to try.
I would be grateful for any help, please?
Many thanks.

 

[marsmimar]

Try running a System File Checker scan from an elevated command prompt (Option Two.) If problems are found, run the scan at least three times. Make sure you reboot the computer immediately following each scan. Please post back your results.

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/1538-sfc-scannow-command-system-file-checker.html

 

[anpease]

Hi,
Thanks for the reply. I have tried as directed and although it found some contaminated files it said it could not repair them.
I have attached the sfcdetails file.

 

[matts6887]

it looks like some of the windows music sample files somehow got corrupted. Have you tried to do a system restore? If not, i would try that. Click start, programs, accessories, system tools, then system restore and see if you can restore to the point before the issues started happening.

 

[anpease]

Hi,
As I mentioned in my original message I have tried System Restore but it said it failed to load the registry files. It did mention a specific file, so I shall try again and if it fails I shall put a reply on here with the exact message.
Thanks.

 

[marsmimar]

Since Windows Explorer stops working you might be able to diagnose the problem(s) by trying to duplicate the issue in Safe Mode. After starting your computer in Safe Mode, work as you normally do and perform the same actions that you performed when getting the error.

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/69585-safe-mode.html

If you do not experience the same problem in Safe Mode, it’s possible an installed program or app is causing the issue. Try doing a Clean Boot (AKA: Clean Startup.)

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorial...ation-conflicts-performing-clean-startup.html

This Microsoft support article recommends the above steps in addition to updating drivers and running the SFC which you've already done. It also suggests testing your RAM and looking for picture files that may be corrupted.

Error: Windows Explorer has stopped working

If still no joy, it further recommends a System Restore (which didn't work) and finally an in-place upgrade which is the same as a Repair Install.

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/3413-repair-install.html

 

[anpease]

Hi,
Thanks for all your advice.
I re-booted in Safe Mode, clicked on Start then typed "Msconfig" in the run field and it worked fine, no problems at all.
I then disabled all the other services from starting up (there were only 7), and re-booted only to have the same problem. When I click on Start and then start typing in the run field I only get as far as "msco" (for msconfig) or "rege" (for regedit) before it locks up.
I will try the repair option, but am away for a couple of days now, so will not be able to try this until the weekend.
Many thanks.