How to recover from a damaged RVS installation

The major reason for many issues with RVS System Safe virtualization being "stuck" in an active mode are due to damaged installations caused by:

1. Manual removal attempts
2. Third party uninstall attempts

This is especially true if the user attempts to remove RVS while the System Safe virtualization is active. Most of the users that frequent the forums are aware of the need to deactivate the virtualization prior to attempting an upgrade install or uninstall of RVS. This information however may not be as well known by new RVS users and/or novice computer users who are unfamiliar with ISR types solutions. This post is designed to provide guidance for resolving an issue where the virtualization cannot be deactivated and the RVS program damaged to the point where it cannot be opened or may be missing.

Turning RVS System Safe virtualization off (if GUI available):

1. Open the RVS program
2. On the main screen, in the System Safe section, make sure that the link displays "Disable when I start Windows". If the l;ink shows as "Enable...", simply click the link to change it to "Disable..."
3. Restart your computer

System Safe is "stuck" in active mode (GUI may not be available due to damage caused by manual or third party uninstall attempts)

1. Boot your system in Safe Mode;

2. Delete the “C:\Returnil\ RVSYSTEM.DAT” to release the virtualization. (C:\Returnil is a hidden folder. To allow it to be shown - configure in "Windows Explorer > Tools > Folder Options..>View > Show Hidden files and folders")

3. Boot system into Normal Windows;

4. Download and install the Windows Installer CleanUp Utility from http://support.microsoft.com/kb/290301

5. Start the “Windows Install Clean Up” utility and select “Returnil Virtual System 2010” in the list, and then press the “Remove” button

6. Start installation of the latest release version of RVS – it should remove previous installation. NOTE! Do NOT attempt to uninstall RVS at this stage in the process as it could cause a critical stop issue.

7. Reboot system after installation.

RVS should now be repaired and operating as expected.

Returnil support