Troubleshooting: How to Remove and Reinstall a Program (180027)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Windows 95
This article was previously published under Q180027

SUMMARY

When you experience a problem with a Microsoft program, you may need to reinstall the program to troubleshoot issues that can be caused by missing or damaged files. When you reinstall the program, you may be presented with the following installation options:

  • Reinstall
  • Remove All
The Reinstall installation option reinstalls missing program files, but does not recopy program files that already exist on your hard disk. Damaged files, system files, and program-supplied fonts are not recopied when you choose the Reinstall option.

The Remove All installation option removes all of the program's files, including damaged files, but does not remove any files you created using the program. This option enables you to reinstall all the program files.

MORE INFORMATION

To reinstall a program, run the Setup program from the program disks or CD-ROM. Instructions about how to install the program are printed on the disks or the CD-ROM jewel case insert. If the program is designed for Windows 95, you can also reinstall the program by using the following steps:

  1. Click Start, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
  2. Double-click Add/Remove Programs.
  3. Click the program you want to reinstall, and then click Add/Remove.
If the problem continues to occur after you reinstall the program, first remove, and then reinstall the program by using the following steps:

  1. Run the Setup program from the program disks or CD-ROM, or run the Setup program using the Add/Remove Programs tool in Control Panel as described in steps 1-3 above.
  2. Click Remove All. If you are prompted to confirm the removal, click Yes.
  3. Restart the computer.
  4. Run ScanDisk to check the hard disk for lost clusters and errors, and to test the integrity of the hard disk. To run ScanDisk, use the following steps:

    1. Click Start, and then click Run.
    2. In the Open box, type scandisk, and then click OK.
    3. Click the hard disk you want to check for errors.
    4. Under Type Of Test, click Thorough, and then click Start.

      NOTE: If you have more than one hard disk installed in your computer, run ScanDisk on each hard disk.
  5. If the program is installed from a CD-ROM, gently wipe the underside of the CD-ROM with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any fingerprints, smudges, or dust.
  6. Reinstall the program.
NOTE: Any custom program options or preferences you have selected may be removed if you follow these steps. However, any documents you have created using the program are not removed if you remove and reinstall the program.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:12/17/2000
Keywords:kbhowto kbsetup KB180027
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