Windows File Protection fails to RUN sfc /scannow

Just to confirm, this is the EXACT same CD that came with your computer?

Have you updated the service pack level on your PC, but still have an older install disk?

I am using the exact same xp pro cd which includes SP2.  I have not updated sp2 although my Updates are on and downloaded automatically.

Can you first run

SFC /PURGECACHE

and then reboot and try

SFC /SCANNOW

again

I ran sfc /purgecache and a command prompt window opened with the heading:  C:\WINDOWS\system32\sfc.exe     I tried to key in a command but the prompt was not responsive.

That doesn't sound good. Unresponsive cmd after you wrote command stated above. I would try to do a windows repair from the CD you have, having in mind that CD can be damaged or scratched, which might result in given errors.

You said that you haven't updated your windows SP2 although it's set to automatic update? How that could happen?

Could you manually install SP2?

Just to clarify.....

Scannow sfc
http://www.updatexp.com/scannow-sfc.html

Are you familiar with this link?

I followed all the tips in the updatexo.com/scannow-sfc.html  link.  Thank you, but still no luck.  I saved a copy of my registry settings in setup but I can't seem to get it to paste in this window.  It is a .png file.  I have emailedt a pdf file of the registry settings to johnb6767.  Any tips how to paste files in this window?  I have also set my computer's  Dllcache in group edit to 400MB.  No luck with scanning, however.

I'd recommend you download Dial-a-Fix.

http://djlizard.net.nyud.net:8080/software/Dial-a-fix-v0.60.0.24.zip

Check the boxes next to the following:

Fix Windows Installer
Fix Windows Update
Select everything in the Registration center

Click the GO button.

When that's finished, put your OS media in your drive, and in Dial-a-Fix, click the Hammer icon at the bottom. From the new menu, first, select SFC purge. After that has completed, select SFC scan. Once that completes, remove the OS media and reboot your system.

Report back.

Are you still running SP2? And here is the attachment that was emailed to me......

K, here it really is....
pdfregistrysetupfiles.pdf

Also, is there an I386 Directory on the root of c:?

Try copying it from the CD to the C: drive, if you dont mind....

I have copied the 1386 directory from the original WinXp OS cd.  scannow still doesn't run. The folder is in My Documents.  Should it be somewhere else.  Do I have to tell setup where to find it?  

I386 shoulc be in the ROOT of the C Drive, based on your registry setting of the value "Sourcepath".....The value needs the path UP to the I386 directory.

Probably even try moving the sourec path to your CD drive letter.....

souseran:  I downloaded Dial-a-fix and followed your instructions.  But when I chose SCAN the same exact problem popped up--I Put OS cd in drive, which I did, and then message appears Wrong cd is in drive.  Now I can't even use Task Manager to close Windows File Protection. I will have to restart the computer.   Bummer.  Thanks for helping.  Right now I will try anything.  
johnb6767:  I have substituted drive paths till my fingers hurt from typing.  No luck.  Could it be that WFP simply doesn't "see" the drives with the correct disc in them.  There is no pause when you select "retry" as you would expect the system to seek out the drive and run it looking for the requested disc.  The message "Wrong Disc is in Drive"  pops up so fast that it seems preprogrammed to say "Wrong Disc in Drive."  

I have awarded 500 points to johnb6767 because his advise was the most pertinent to the problem and were the only comments that lead to the solution.  

"I also had a folder i386 in My Documents"

Thats the one I suggested you copy to c: earlier on....

:)

Regardless, I am glad it is working. Remember, there should be a log in the Event Viewer, that will tell you EXACTLY what files were replaced, as a result of SFC..... Should be Windows File Protection source I blelieve....