Issue 44.14
Recently, a certain type of error is showing up in a number of computers. When you first try to login, the computer shows a message that says “User Profile Service has failed” or some variant of that message. This type of problem is created when your user has been corrupted. It usually occurs because of a virus or other malware changing some of the settings in your registry. If you can reset your computer registry to an earlier date, it can sometimes reverse the problem and get you back to operation, but usually it requires more significant action unless you catch it quickly and can get to it through the diagnostic boot-up page, another user name that is an administrator or the safe mode.
The malware (malicious software) usually changes a line or two of code in your registry (which is the program that helps your computer know where everything is and how to make it work). The new code corrupts the user file and makes it unbootable. It usually does not attack your data, pictures, documents or other personal files. If you can get it repaired fairly soon, you can usually get back to using your computer the way it was working before the attack.
The sad thing is that many repair places just throw up their hands and tell you that you have to reformat your hard drive, thus losing all those personal files. This is very seldom necessary but it does take some time and effort to solve this type of problem. At the very least, they should offer to back up your files before wiping the drive. I have to suppose that perhaps it is more time than some techs want to take, but be assured that if you call a good tech, he or she should be able to get you back to normal within a couple of days and for around $100 – $150 in most cases. If you are really knowledgeable about operating system repair, you may be able to do it yourself after spending a few hours learning how from searches for the error message. Just be careful. If you make a mistake with the registry, you can destroy it and make your computer inoperable, possibly losing important files in the process.
As we mentioned last week, these types of problems usually come from clicking on a pop up ad or a link to something you did not ask for. Don’t be fooled by unasked for links that promise to speed up, clean up or fix your computer. Most of them are scams. Also, be very wary of any toolbars or changes of home page that occur as these are a sign that something is changing your computer and may attack your registry – and remember to always back up anything on your computer that is important to you.
Shaun McCausland has worked in the computer industry for over 32 years, 25 years of it locally with Bits ‘N’ Bytes and Musicomp and currently does in-home and on-site computer consultation, service, training and repair. If you have questions you can reach him at 435-668-7118 or shaun@musicomp.net.