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Windows logs on and logs off immediately

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This article describes an issue where you can't sign in to the system and you're prompted for username and password repeatedly.

Applies to:   Supported versions of Windows Server
Original KB number:   555648

Symptoms

Windows logs on and logs off immediately when you try logging on to Windows. When you type the username and password, you're again presented with User name and Password dialogue box. You try hard to get in but to no avail.

Cause

You can't log on to system using either Normal Mode or Safe Mode. This occurs only when Winlogon service tries to load the Windows default shell (explorer.exe) and user shell (userinit.exe) from registry. This service searches for Explorer.exe and Userinit.exe in the following path of registry:

HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon

Resolution

Edit these values and type the correct path of shell:

Shell = explorer.exe
Userinit = C:\windows\system32\userinit.exe

Note

These files may also be deleted by spywares. You may need to extract them using Windows CD.

Steps for rectifying this problem

  • Log on to a networked computer.

  • Run Regedit.exe.

  • Point your cursor to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE.

  • Select File > Connect Remote Registry.

  • Type the computer name (infected computer).

  • Navigate to the following location in registry of destination or infected computer:

    HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon

  • Edit these two values in right pane:

    Shell
    Userinit

  • Change these two values to

    Shell = explorer.exe
    Userinit = C:\windows\system32\userinit.exe

  • Exit from Registry.

  • Restart the infected computer.

  • You should be able to log on to the computer.

Important

If the above steps didn't resolve the issue, the machine should be considered compromised.

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