For some of the problems that we detect on your system, we offer an Autofix link that can automatically correct the problem. This FAQ explains how to use an Autofix, and what to do if it doesn't seem to work.
An Autofix is a small program that runs on your system to adjust system settings. AutoFixes eliminate the need to manually edit the registry, use Notepad to edit configuration files, or dig through Windows dialog boxes to find and fix problems. Windows Scripting Host (WSH) is the basic technology that PC Pitstop uses to build AutoFixes.
You can use an AutoFix in two different ways. The easiest is to run it directly from your browser. Another way is to save the AutoFix file to the disk on your own PC and run it from there. Each method is described below. We suggest you print this page for reference. You can use the link at the bottom of the page to see a printer friendly version of this page.
You can see all the AutoFixes by visiting the AutoFix Repair Bay, but we usually recommend that you run them only when advised by a tip in your test results. "If it ain't broke, don't fix it..." words to live by.
Whenever you have tested as a registered user, we remember the information about which Autofixes you have downloaded for each system you test. You can see this list in the Details part of your test results, available from the Summary page. Note that this information won't necessarily be saved for anonymous users, since anonymous results are saved in the database only for a short time. Also, we can only associate the results with a computer if you run the Autofix while viewing test results for that computer.
Some, but not all Autofixes can be undone. For example, the Internet Cache Cleanup Autofix cannot be reversed, because its purpose is to delete files to free up disk space. Autofixes that provide the ability to undo themselves will show that option as part of their user interface if you run them a second time. For example, the Internet Speed Autofix can reset your receive buffer to its default setting.
If you run the Autofix directly from the site, the file is in your cache and will automatically be removed when you clear your IE cache. If you saved the file to your local disk, just delete the file. The Autofix does not install any software on your system.
If you are getting an error message when the Autofix tries to run, these are the most common reasons:
The troubleshooting page may provide some other information about what could be causing the problem.
Some program has changed the file association for .js or .hta files. To fix this problem, Start Explorer (My Computer) and select Tools | Folder Options, File Types tab. Find the type "JScript file" and have it open with "Windows Script Host". If "Windows Script Host" isn't listed, click the Browse button and find the file c:\Windows\System\wscript.exe (Win 98/Me) or c:\Windows\System32\wscript.exe (Win 2000/XP).
Scripts are often used by viruses and sent in email messages. Because of that, some virus software will always warn you when you try to run scripts, regardless of whether they are viruses or not.
You may need to update your Windows Scripting Host software if you are running Windows 95, 98, or NT. Download it here and run the downloaded file to update your scripting.