Not a valid Win32? HUH? (W98)

[t2shorty]

I may have mistakenly deleted some files that I need to run certain programs. I keep getting "not a valid Win32 application". Cannot run anything in MS-DOS mode cant get it to read a music CD but it reads DVD movies and internet software like AOL,MSN. My computer came with WIN98 already preinstalled on it. It didnt come with a recovery disk. Is there any hope for me?

[laurieA]

Which means the recovery section is on a hidden partion. I was going to suggest a system file check but I don't think you can achieve this without os disc. Before going that route go into ms-dos and At the blinking cursor, type the following commands successively, hitting 'enter' after EACH line:

cd\
cd windows\command
scanreg /fix

The Scanreg tool will now proceed to rebuild your registry, which can take some time.

When it finished, type exit or win, followed by hitting 'enter' to return to Windows.
Ctrl-alt-delete will work as well.

You will have refreshed, compacted and repaired your Registry, and this sometimes fixes this type of registry error.

However, the other problems will probably each need to be addressed separately anyway..

If it keeps on happening, it may be defective RAM modules that are causing this.
In that case, try checking them with DocMemory or a similar app.
Thanks to TonyKlein

[BertImmenschuh]

Try System File Checker. Most 'brands' will dump the files from the CD in C:\Windows\Options\Cabs so they are easier to find when installing new hardware.

Good judgement comes from experience, and experience comes from bad judgement