Setting System Attribute on SYSTEM.INI Causes GP Fault

• Microsoft Windows operating system versions 3.1, 3.11
• Microsoft Windows for Workgroups versions 3.1, 3.11

SYMPTOMS

If the SYSTEM.INI file is assigned the System attribute, you receive the following error message:

   Application Error
   WINFILE Caused a General Protection Fault
   in module WINFILE.EXE at XXXX:XXXX

RESOLUTION

To correct this error, remove the system attribute from the SYSTEM.INI file by typing the following command at an MS-DOS prompt in the WINDOWS directory:

   ATTRIB -S SYSTEM.INI

MORE INFORMATION

When the SYSTEM.INI file has been altered in the above manner, the File Manager may work intermittently. At times, the directory tree displays just the root directory with no subdirectories. At other times, no file names will appear or file details will appear, preceded by the system/hidden file icon (a red exclamation point on the file icon).

To display the current attributes of the SYSTEM.INI file:

1. Switch to the WINDOWS directory.

2. Type the following command at the MS-DOS prompt:

         ATTRIB <SPACE> SYSTEM.INI
   

         press ENTER
   

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Microsoft Windows and Windows for Workgroups. We are researching this problem and will post new information here in the Microsoft Knowledge Base as it becomes available.