How to Fix Autorun.inf File Corrupt or Missing? [SOLVED]

Your autorun.inf file has gone missing or has been corrupted on your Windows device? Don’t worry you are not alone in this, many users have reported similar issues with the autorun.inf file. The write-up below mentions the solutions to fix this issue and connect your logical drives in the simplest and the most effective way to transfer and access data.

The autorun.inf file is used to automatically run or play the components ( apps, software, etc) of a logical drive. The file is embedded in the root directory of the drive. As the user connects the drive the files are executed automatically and required components are installed. But if the file goes missing or is corrupted the logical drive fails to run. In some cases, the device can be infected with some virus and create a duplicate file for the same that can damage your data and system too. 

Are you facing a similar problem? Want to know how to fix the Autorun.inf file missing? Here's all you need to know to fix the issue and run the drive without any hassle or interruptions. 

Methods to fix Autorun.inf File for Windows PC

If you are getting an error message that says autorun.inf not found, failed to load, file missing or corrupt, or any other similar error message then the following methods can be chosen in order to run your logical drive. 

Method 1: Execute the program in Compatibility mode

To avoid the error occurring due to missing autorun.inf file, follow the steps given below to run the program or components in compatibility mode.

Step 1: Right-click on the program that you want to run and click on Properties.

Step 2: Switch to the tab named Compatibility

Step 3: In the Compatibility mode section, check on the ‘Run this program in compatibility mode for’ checkbox and select your version of Windows. 

Step 4: Now Click on OK and execute the program.

This simple switch in the mode will fix the error and will help the user to open the program file. 

Method 2: Change the name of Registry Key

To fix the issue in a safe and secure way you can simply rename the Registry Key by following the order of steps below

Step 1: Open the Run dialog box by using the shortcut keys Windows + R from your keyboard. 

Step 2: Now open ‘regedit’ and press the OK button or Enter key on your keyboard.

Step 3: Locate and navigate the registry key to the given location

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows

NTCurrentVersionIniFileMappingAutorun.inf

Step 4: Run these commands and try to execute the file again.

This alternative will help you fix the issue. If the program still fails to execute try the next method. 

Method 3: Generate a new Registry Key

Step 1: In the Registry Editor move to 

ComputerHKWY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows

NTCurrentVersionIniFileMapping

Step 2: Find the InFileMapping and right-click on it.

Step 3: Click on New and then click on the Key option.

Step 4: Now rename the new key file as Autorun.inf to create a new registry key for your drive.

The solution only works when the autorun.inf key is absent else the redundant registry keys can cause errors too. If the issue remains, try the next solution to fix it.

Method 4: Scan your PC for any Virus

Since you might have tried all the above methods and they didn't work, there can be an issue with your system that cannot be detected by manual processing and requires a complete system scan. Scan your PC. To remove the virus or any other malware use free computer cleaner and repair software. A lot of tools are available on the internet that can be downloaded for this purpose. 

The infected device like pen drive, USB, CD drives, etc creates a duplicate autorun.inf file in your computer as soon as it gets connected. It is necessary to protect your computer and clean the unnecessary clutter to repair any of the infected software or software with improper functioning.

However, the steps to be followed remain the same for almost all of the cleaner and repair software. To download and install any antivirus you need to download the executable file for the antivirus and install it to safeguard your PC from any of the attacks. Ensure that the software is reliable enough and provides continuous support to your PC from any kind of trojan attacks, ransomware attacks, malware, or other such viruses round the clock. 

Conclusion

The article lists four methods that can workaround for the file autorun.inf went corrupt or missing. The first three methods solve any of the key errors within the system and the device connected. Whereas the last method is recommended since it automates the process of identifying any such errors and either fix them or provide an easy and effective solution for the errors. 

We hope these fixes helped you in repairing the autorun.inf file. For any further assistance or feedback do let us know in the comments section. 

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