Can't install/uninstall

That was going to be my next question. What are the side effects of doing this to C:\Windows?

 

Free now;
http://www.advanceduninstaller.com/

You can install/uninstall, and force uninstall w/system sweep, and repair installations. Probably the best too around for fixing stuff. It used to cost $69, now it is free with no strings attached.

 

Bodhitree, I tried that app and it can uninstall apps on my son's computer that Windows can't uninstall. Thanks. But it can't help with installs.

Cudni, I restored an image of the "bad" OS and ran "Take Ownership" on C:\Installer. Didn't fix the problem. I ran it on C:\System32. Didn't fix the problem. So it must be one of the other Windows folders.

Wild Hunter, I owe you an apology. In my testing I created a multi-boot with various Win7 partitions. I ran your app on one partition and then checked the wrong partition. I realized this today when I saw a log that should not have been present. I used your app correctly today and it worked.

Thanks to all for your assistance as it has been a very informative thread and contains far more helpful information than any other thread on this topic.

 

Glad it worked then. But Windows Repair isn't mine, I'm merely recommending it.

 

So Windows Repair fixed the problem? Just making sure so that I know what to do if this happens to me.

 

Yes, hats off to Windows Repair. I've done further testing on restored images and the only component needed to be selected in Windows Repair is....

"Reset File Permissions" which is second in the big list.

Thanks again, Wild Hunter. (for your recommendation)