16 Bit Subsystem Error

Original Post

Error message:

16-bit MS-DOS Subsystem path to the program that you are trying to start or install C:\Windows\System32\Autoexec.nt The system file is not suitable for running MS-DOS and Microsoft Windows applications. Choose 'Close' to terminate the application.


Resolution:

(Note: Win2000 users: replace "Windows" with "WinNT" in the below instructions.



From a command prompt:

      Enter: copy c:\windows\repair\autoexec.nt c:\windows\system32
     
      If you get an overwrite message, respond Y
     
OR

From Windows Explorer:

      Navigate to the c:\windows\repair directory
      Find the autoexec.nt file
      Right click the file and choose Copy
      Navigate to the c:\windows\system32 directory
      Find the autoexec.nt file
      Click the file and choose Edit from the toolbar at top of screen and choose Paste
      If Confirm File Replace window appears, choose Yes             
     
OR

From your OS Installation CD:

      Open a command prompt

      Enter: expand CDDriveLetter:\i386\autoexec.nt_ c:\windows\system32\autoexec.nt


This issue is also documented at: http://www.computerhope.com/issues/ch000715.htm