Location is not available

My computer takes a long time to load on the welcome/revolving dots on startup.

When it finally does load, I get the error:

C:\WINDOWS\system32\config\systemprofile\Desktop is unavailable. If the location is on this PC, make sure the device or drive is connected or the disc is inserted, and then try again. If the location is on a network, make sure you're connected to the network or internet, and then try again. If the location still can't be found, it might have been moved or deleted.

I cannot access the config folder as admin, nor can I access the start bar and task manager. I can only access files through the computer folder and recycling bin.

How can I fix this?

***Post moved by the moderator to the appropriate forum category.*** 

Hi,

This issue may be caused by a corruption on the user profile. In order for us to efficiently assist you, we just have few questions for you:

  1. Were there any changes made to your computer prior to the issue? 

  2. What troubleshooting steps have you done so far?

Regards.

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Hello,

I haven't made any major changes. I use sleep mode frequently so I think that could have caused problems.

I used to have a second user account but deleted it because I just wanted to startup without logging in each time, but I didn't know how to completely do away with it because sometimes it will still ask for my password. 

I have tried to access the config folder to see if I needed to delete or copy a folder in but I cannot do that. 

I've tried to restore to a previous point but it failed and it shows as windows 7 even though I upgraded to windows 10.

Adding/changing users doesn't work aside from logging out.

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This issue may have something to do with some corrupted files in your computer. Let's run the System File Checker tool (SFC.exe)to scan your system files and to repair missing or corrupted system files. 

Do let us know if you need any other assistance. 

Regards.

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I was unable to use cmd and I have tried right clicking to use as admin and creating a shortcut with properties to use as admin but when I enter commands it just doesn't work.

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We recommend running your computer into safe mode to start Windows in a basic state, using a limited set of files and drivers. It can help you troubleshoot problems on your PC.


Let us know if you need further help.

Regards.

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So in safe mode, it showed me my regular desktop. but most of the other applications which have stopped working were still not starting including my outlook. it tells me repair it but the repair didn't go either.

than i restarted the machine in regular mode and i still get all the errors + desktop missing.

help will be much appreciated!

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Question Info

Last updated June 30, 2020 Views 3,617 Applies to: