How to Identify Conflicting Software in Windows XP

Software conflicts are a major cause of computer problems

A typical computer will run many different software packages, and it is important for all those programs to work well with one another. While most of the time those programs will run efficiently, there are times when two or more products will conflict with one another. When those software conflicts occur, it is important to identify the problem programs and take steps to resolve those conflicts.

Instructions

1. Log on to your computer, click "Start" and choose "Control Panel."

2. Click on the "Administrative Tools" icon in Control Panel. If you do not see an "Administrative Tools" icon, click on the "Switch to Classic View" option on the left-hand side of the screen.

3. Double-click on the "Event Viewer" icon and click on the "Applications" tab. Scroll through the list of events to identify the software products that are causing the issues.

4. Go back to the Control Panel and click the "Add or Remove Programs" icon. Highlight the program that is causing the conflict and the "Repair" option if it is available. If it's not available for that program, click "Remove" to uninstall the program.

Tips & Warnings

• Running more than one antivirus software product on the same computer will often cause conflicts. Only one antivirus program should be used.

References

• Microsoft Support: Event Viewer