Overcoming User32.dll Initialization Failure Errors
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The information in this article applies to:
Microsoft Windows NT Workstation version 4.0
Microsoft WindowsNT Server version 4.0
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SYMPTOMS
When you try to start a service a pop-up dialog box appears with the following message:
- DLL initialization failure Initialization of the dynamic link library c:\windows\system32\user32.dll failed. The process is terminating abnormally.
CAUSE
The system has run out of memory to create a new desktop heap for the service being started.
RESOLUTION
Fixing this problem requires editing of the Registry and restarting the computer concerned.
WARNING: Using Registry Editor incorrectly can cause serious, system-wide problems that may require you to reinstall Windows NT to correct them. Microsoft cannot guarantee that any problems resulting from the use of Registry Editor can be solved. Use this tool at your own risk.
Run the Registry Editor(Regedt32.exe).
Under the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE subtree, go to the following subkey:
\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager\ SubSystems\Windows
The default data for this value will look something like the following (all on one line):
%SystemRoot%\system32\csrss.exe ObjectDirectory=\Windows
SharedSection=1024,3072 Windows=On SubSystemType=Windows ServerDll=basesrv,1 ServerDll=winsrv:UserServerDllInitialization,3
ServerDll=winsrv:ConServerDllInitialization,2 ProfileControl=Off
MaxRequestThreads=16
You will need to make the following change to this value:
Scan along the line untilyou reach the part that defines the SharedSection values and add ",512" after the second number. This value should now look something like the following:
%SystemRoot%\system32
