Why do I get an 'Autoexec.nt file not suitable for running MS-DOS and Microsoft Windows applications' error?

If the autoexec.nt file is missing from your system32 folder, the 'Autoexec.nt file not suitable for running MS-DOS and Microsoft Windows applications' error will occur. In order to resolve this issue, the autoexec.nt file must be replaced.

To replace the autoexec.nt file, perform the following steps:

  PLEASE NOTE:  Pring Research is not responsible for any damage, loss of data, etc. when following these instructions.  They are here to assist the computer owner since it is NOT the CD which is causing the problem.

  The steps in this article were created using Windows XP. Depending on your operating system, the steps may vary.

1.  Right-click Start, and then click Explore.

2.  From the Explorer window, click the WINDOWS folder.

3.  From the WINDOWS folder, click the repair folder.

4.  In the right-hand pane, right-click autoexec.nt, and then click Copy.

5.  From the Explorer window, click the WINDOWS folder.

6.  In the right-hand pane, right-click the system32 folder, and then click Paste.

The autoexec.nt file is now restored to its proper location.

To prevent this issue from recurring, a few more steps must first be completed. The autoexec.nt file was likely removed from your system32 folder by a spyware program. We have compiled the following partial list of spyware programs known to do this. All of these files should be removed from your computer immediately, as they are a registered security risk.

• Windupdater

• bargains.exe

• dmserver.exe

• Newsflsh.exe

• SyncroAd.exe

• webrebates0.exe

• webrebates1.exe

To remove these programs, perform the following steps:

7.  From the Start menu, select Settings, and then click Control Panel.

8.  From the Control Panel, double-click Add or Remove Programs.

9.  From the Add or Remove Programs dialog box, click to choose a program from the list provided above and click Remove.

  Repeat Step 7 through Step 9 until all of the programs listed above have been removed.

10.  Restart your computer.

  If the autoexec.nt file disappears again, you may be having problems with spyware, adware, or viruses.

The likely cause of this error message is a Trojan virus infection. The Trojan is thought to be: TrojanDownloader.Win32.Dia.a

Be sure to update all of your spyware/anti-virus scanners and run complete system scans.

For more information about spyware and unauthorized adware software, visit the following Microsoft web pages:

• Security at Home: Spyware

• Unexplained computer behavior may be caused by deceptive software