automatic restart when logging in - help!

josef_kijewski · #1 04-01-2003, 08:51 AM

I tried to use my computer this morning, and every time I attempt to log into windows XP, it automatically logs me back out again and puts me at the screen where you select users. I can only get into windows via safe-mode. I created a new user, and the same thing happens when attempting a proper log-in. Does anybody have a suggestion as to what might be going on with this?

-josef

Daeymon · #2 04-01-2003, 04:55 PM

Provide more information on your system.

Have you tried logging on to an account with admin privledges?

josef_kijewski · #3 04-02-2003, 07:48 AM

the main identity -is- the admin, as far as i know. i'm the only person who uses the computer, and it's my only choice (unless i log in in safe mode, in which case i can pick either the admin or my normal login name/setup).

i have a dell inspiron 4000, 128mb of ram, 8 (or 10) gig harddrive, 800mhz chip (i think). i did a clean install of windows xp about a month ago, and am creeped out by the idea of having to register things with microsoft so i didn't activate it. i used a crack instead to get around it - perhaps the crack didn't work, and this is what happens when the trial period ends? (though, there's been nothing telling me i had to register since i ran the crack).

Daeymon · #4 04-02-2003, 04:18 PM

do you have a student evaluation version of windows?

josef_kijewski · #5 04-02-2003, 06:49 PM

no, a normal home version of it.

it just seems weird that, if it -was- the activation business, it would do this. even trying to activate it in safe mode doesn't work, it tells you to go back to normal mode.

Daeymon · #6 04-03-2003, 03:15 PM

I would assume that a program that starts with windows may be causing your problem. In safe mode, go uninstall any recent programs you have installed. Also try uninstalling any junk programs that you dont recognise. You are able to get in in safe mode, and safe mode basically disables startup programs and services. Also, did you go into your Admin settings and disable any services such as cryptographic services, or anything at all. Think....some small change must have effected your computer.

Daeymon · #7 04-03-2003, 03:18 PM

Also, if you changed video drivers or cards or something that could be your issue. If you have a integrated video card, AND a PCI or AGP card, check in safe mode under device manager that only one of them is enabled. Sometimes a bad card or driver can cause problems.

josef_kijewski · #8 04-03-2003, 03:32 PM

i didn't change video cards. i didn't do a -thing- to it, as far as i know. the video cards seem to be fine. as i said, it starts to log in after i select my profile, then immediately logs me out again after a brief glimpse of my background, sending be back to the login screen. and so on it goes....

Zitchta · #9 03-27-2004, 10:28 AM

I have a workstation at work that does the same thing. It's on a microsoft exchange network, and no matter what account I log in with (admin or user) it does the same thing as described above. It won't even logon using safe mode...same thing happens.

I do know that a couple years back, durring a large virus outbreak, the virus caused windows sometimes to do this. Though...I forgot which virus! It would force windows to log anybody off who attempts to log on, just in the same fashion as described here. I know there is a removal utility that you boot from.....

-anybody remember what virus this was? It was all over the news-