Error message when you try to log on to a Windows XP-based computer: "AuthUserInit Run-time error '53': File not found" (916253)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Windows XP Professional
  • Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
Important This article contains information about how to modify the registry. Make sure to back up the registry before you modify it. Make sure that you know how to restore the registry if a problem occurs. For more information about how to back up, restore, and modify the registry, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

256986 Description of the Microsoft Windows registry

SYMPTOMS

When you try to log on to a Microsoft Windows XP-based computer, you receive an error message that resembles the following:
AuthUserInit Run-time error '53': File not found.

CAUSE

This problem occurs because of incorrect shell registry settings.

RESOLUTION

Warning Serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly by using Registry Editor or by using another method. These problems might require that you reinstall your operating system. Microsoft cannot guarantee that these problems can be solved. Modify the registry at your own risk.

To resolve this problem, follow these steps:
  1. Press CTRL+ALT+DEL, and then click Task Manager.
  2. On the File menu, click New Task (Run...).
  3. Type regedit, and then click OK.
  4. In the left pane, locate and then click the following registry subkey:

    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon

  5. In the right pane, double-click Shell.
  6. In the Value data box, type Explorer.exe, and then click OK.
  7. In the right pane, double-click Userinit.
  8. In the Value data box, type %windir%\system32\userinit.exe, and then click OK.

    Note The %windir% placeholder represents the path of the Windows folder. By default, C:\WINDOWS is the path of the Windows folder.
    If you type an incorrect value in the Value data box, you cannot log on to the Windows XP-based computer.
  9. Exit Registry Editor.
  10. Restart the computer.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:5/3/2006
Keywords:kbtshoot KB916253 kbAudEndUser kbAudITPRO
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