I have tried several times to install Windows XP Pro on my PC. The install begins, but it fails almost straight away (2-3%) with the message "Setup cannot copy the file: win32k.sys"

I don't believe that I have a problem with my CD Drive, or the CD. What else should I check? (I'm wondering if the are settings in the BIOS I should check, but I don't know much about the BIOS.)

Paul, October 2004

Sometimes it is bad RAM. Other times it happens when you're upgrading Win 2K or Win XP Pro. Because the file already exists on the system there is a lock on it to prevent it from being copied. If it is the latter problem, just hit ESC to continue with the installation as the system should still work since the file is already there. If not, you'll know because Win XP will be very buggy; you always have the option then to undo your install and go back to your former operating system.

Harry, December 2005

I gues the same problem but not with the same file, in fact the file changes everytime I've tried. At work someone told me it could be the RAM so he said I should try memtest 86 and make a bootable CD or Floppy disk. And leave it running all night, so find out if is the ram or not.

Leonardo, October 2005

how to fix this problem

Keith, July 2005

Is this a genuine disc? Also make sure virus protection is turned OFF in the BIOS as this can sometimes affect installs. If a genuins disc take back to shop and swap for another as it may be the disc. Hope this helps.

Rob, May 2005