c:\windows\msiexec.com file not found?

I started getting this message several months ago "windows cannot find 'c:windowsmsiexec.com' " every time I booted up my comp. and I am not sure where the file is missing from.

I also have been having problems with my CD only recognizing the CD that is in the tray whenever I boot up only. If I switch cds I have to reboot for my comp to recognize the new CD. Last night I replaced my CD driver (thought that it was a bad driver) but I still have the same problem.

Are these two problems related? Thanks!!

 

This may be a trojan/virus issue. Follow the suggestions here Removing Spyware & Viruses.

 

I will try thanks!

 

Nothing is helping the problem Anyone else have any ideas?

 

Msiexec.exe is the Windows installer. It is in my version of Win 98, but not in Win XP, although Win XP can use it:
http://www.microsoft.com/resources/documentation/windows/xp/all/proddocs/en-us/msiexec.mspx

Try doing a search for "msiexec" using containing text. See if you can find which program is trying to run it. It will be one of the programs that run at startup. You can disable that program by looking in the "options" section or by unchecking it in the msconfig startup tab.

I have a feeling that MsOffice uses the installer. If you have MsOffice, it might be trying to install something.

I have upgraded/reinstalled the Windows Installer in Win 98 when I had problems with it. It was available as a download from Microsoft.

Matt

 

May help,
In Win 98 you can do a "step by step" startup (not sure about the other versions). I would find out which program was trying to run it that way.

HijackThis will give you a list of startup programs.

Matt