Msinfo32.exe Generates a "Can't Collect Information" Error Message (323209)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
  • Microsoft Windows XP Professional
This article was previously published under Q323209

SYMPTOMS

After you configure Windows for a diagnostic startup by using the System Configuration utility (Msconfig.exe), the System Information utility (Msinfo32.exe) may not gather any information and you may receive the following error message:
Can't Collect Information

Cannot access the Windows Management Instrumentation software. Windows Management files may be moved or missing.

CAUSE

The error message occurs if the Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) service is not started. This can occur if the service is disabled, if a dependent service is not started, or if a problem is preventing the WMI service from starting. The System Information utility will be able to collect information after the WMI service is started.

RESOLUTION

To resolve this issue, make sure that the following services start correctly:
  • Event Log
  • Windows Management Instrumentation
  • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
For additional information about troubleshooting services, click the article number below to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

259733 How to Troubleshoot Service Startup Permissions

Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:6/5/2002
Keywords:kberrmsg kbprb KB323209
©2002 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.