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Question

Missing file

Feb 5, 2020 9:49AM PST

I can not load anything onto my computer. No downloads will load. Can't even save things in paint. I think I accidentally deleted a needed file when I was clearing my ex's crap out of it. It is an HP computer with windows 8.1 os. I don't know the model. AMD A4-5000 with Radeon HD Graphics if that helps.

Discussion is locked

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Answer
Try making a new user account.
Feb 5, 2020 9:53AM PST

Test if it's just the current user account. Could save yourself from a factory reset.

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Missing file
Feb 5, 2020 10:19AM PST

I tried that. At this point I would welcome a factory reset but, it won't even let me do that.

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Try the old SFC command?
Feb 5, 2020 10:56AM PST
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Answer
Don't forget malware scan
Feb 5, 2020 6:15PM PST

First, follow R. Proffitt's advice and run those scans. Be sure to do the DISM one first.
After the scans complete try running a full scan with Malwarebytes. Choose the one that says "For Windows" / Download Free. They give you their "Premium" version for the first two weeks (nice, then it reverts to just the free on-demand scanner). If you don't already have it you can download it here:
https://www.malwarebytes.com/mwb-download/