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Can't install or run .exe files from CD

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10 replies

by mjr2u

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Executable files (.exe) won't run or install from CD-ROM disks when running WinXP Home edition in normal mode. I can run or install programs from CD-ROM when in SAFE mode, however, so I think it's an errant driver causing the problem, but which one? And, how can I fix this?

I currently have 2 WinXP Home PC's doing this. I have run PC-based, and web-based virus scans, no virus present. I have run Spybot Search & Destroy, and all of this has not helped correct the problem.

When I try to run an .exe file from CD, the program will "flash" it's startup screen for a second, and then the PC goes back to the desktop. Occassionally, I get an error, "Error (CreateMovie): Path/File access error" on a particular CD-ROM for my Sony LCD Display CD, but I have tried other Software titles on CD, and they usually just flash on screen for a second, and then the PC just goes back to the desktop, but will not install the programs.

Help!

10 replies

by wcp

I had a similar experience before, not only problem of reading CD-ROM but also Zip and A: drives.

The cause was Norton Antivirus program (NAV).

Disable the NAV from startup (msconfig), reboot the computer, enable the NAV from startup, and reboot.

If this does not work, uninstall and reinstall the NAV.

Refer to Symantec article: Error: "Drive is not accessible. Incorrect function" when accessing a CD or removable drive after installing Norton AntiVirus (or http://tinyurl.com/uw0k).

Also refer to MS KB Article 315350: "Incorrect Function" Error Message When You Access the CD-ROM Drive, DVD-ROM Drive, or CD-RW Drive (or http://tinyurl.com/702i).

by mjr2u

Nope, that's not it. I don't have Norton Anti-virus on either machine. I am running McAfee, and have also scanned the PC with Trend's on-line scanner.

by dmiles

It sounds like the Swen Virus (cannot open exe files) See this thread here:

?Swen Virus on XP machine

Have you run an Online AV scan to identify any possible viruses?

Some free online AV scanners

Panda's Active Scan
?www.pandasoftware.com/activescan/com/a..

Trend Micro (PC-cillin) - Free on-line Scan
?housecall.antivirus.com

RAV Antivirus Online Scan
?www.ravantivirus.com/scan/

I'm giving you several because they are all busy and may not be able to complete the scan, try the next one

by pierrejamme

I believe answer 1 had the correct answer. I have seen the same thing on a few computers here (W2k & XP Pro). We are using the Corporate version of McAfee and I occassionally have to enter control Panel and stop VShield or I will see the Flash and nothing else. When VShield is stopped, the install finishes correctly.

by mjr2u

WCP's answer did help me solve the problem: if WCP will submit another "answer" I will award him the points. I disabled McAfee, restarted the PC and could then run or install .exe files from CD-ROM. I uninstalled McAfee, reinstalled it, and now the problem is fixed. Thank you for your suggestion (sorry I rejected your answer too soon).

by wcp

The fact that the CD-ROM has no problem of installing a program indicates that a program, not a driver, is causing the problem.

Run MSCONFIG and disable/enable half the programs at a time to find the culprit.

by wcp

I should have added "in Safe Mode" after "no problem of installing a program".

by mjr2u

I also tried disabling apps in MSCONFIG, but this made no difference. The first answer you submitted was correct in that my anti-virus program was the culprit. I am running McAfee Security Center. Once I disabled McAfee, I could run and/or install .exe files from CD-ROM. To permanently fix the problem, I uninstalled/reinstalled McAfee, and now it is working fine. Thank you for your help.

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