Basic Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 troubleshooting

Error messages encountered during boot before Windows loads

Before following the steps below, if you are getting an error, search our site for the error message first and look through our Windows NT Q&A.

Ensure your computer BIOS (basic input/output system) settings are correctly configured for the hardware installed in your computer. Improper settings in the BIOS can cause various errors when first booting an IBM compatible computer. These errors often occur as the computer is first booting and may stop the load process of the computer.

Error messages while Windows is loading

1. Ensure your computer is up-to-date with all the latest service packs and patches available from Microsoft.
2. If you cannot get into Windows, check the Event Viewer to verify if any errors occurred while Windows is loading. To check the event viewer, click Start, Programs, Admin Tools, and click Event Viewer.
3. If your computer has a virus protection program installed, make sure it is up-to-date and that no viruses are detected. If your computer does not have a virus protection program, consider installing an antivirus program to make sure no viruses are causing your problems.

• What are the currently available antivirus programs?
• How to update an antivirus program.

Other error messages

If you are experiencing other error messages, these errors are likely being caused by the program you are running, or hardware device you are attempting to utilize. We recommend you see the basic troubleshooting overview for your hardware device or program.

Computer running slowly

1. Make sure your computer has at least 100 MB of free hard drive space. If your computer has less than 100 MB free, it may cause the computer to operate more slowly.
2. Ensure your computer is up-to-date with all the latest service packs and patches available from Microsoft.
3. Close any programs that are running in the background or disable background programs from automatically loading each time your computer boots.
4. Ensure your computer has the latest drivers for the hardware devices installed in your computer.

• How to regain computer hard drive space.
• How to remove TSRs and startup programs.
• What hardware device drivers should be updated?

Issue with hardware device

If you are having difficulties with a hardware device, see the basic troubleshooting overview for steps you can take to help resolve the hardware issues.

Other

If you still have errors or cannot resolve the issue, search Computer Hope, check our on-line help, and review our questions and answers page for additional help. If, after checking these locations, you are still unable to resolve your issue, feel free to contact our support team.