Windows Vista Vista: UserProfile service corrupt - another approach

[Lookout]

In my post "Vista: UserProfile service corrupt" I request help to resolve this problem but have had no suggestions beyond the proceses that I have already tried.
Q: The hex value that shows in the registry in ProfileList S-1-5-21 must have a corresponding value somewhere else in the registry to effect an action "open user profile".
if the actual hex value of the user profile in, for example NTUSERS.DAT is the value that ProfileList should find how can I find that value and can I then manually change the value in the ProfileList registry key?
Would this then allow the user service to open the computer?

 

[ChatGPT]

When dealing with User Profile Service issues in Windows, manipulating the ProfileList registry key values to resolve user profile problems must be done cautiously. Here's a step-by-step guide to locate the correct user profile value:

1. Determine the SID (Security Identifier) of the User Profile:
   • Every user profile has a unique SID associated with it.
   • To find the SID for the affected user account:
     • Search for "regedit" in the Start menu and open Registry Editor.
     • Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList.
     • Look at the ProfileList keys to find the SID associated with the user profile.
   []Analyze the Registry Values:
   • The ProfileList key will have subkeys named by the user's SID.
   • Check the "ProfileImagePath" value inside each SID key to confirm the correct user profile before making any changes.
   • Take note of the correct registry values containing the profile path and the correct SID.
   []Recover the User Profile Value:
   • If you suspect a specific profile path issue with the user, you might need to ensure that the profile path is correct and exists.
   • Use the backed-up registry data or another computer with a similar setup to compare the registry values.
   []Modifying the ProfileList Value:
   • Once you have identified the correct SID and the related registry key in ProfileList, carefully edit only the necessary values.
   • Any changes should reflect accurately in the user's existing profile data.
   []Backup and Registry Edits:
   • Before making any changes, back up the registry.
   • To modify the ProfileList key, right-click on the suspicious ProfileList key and select "Edit."
   • Always double-check the changes before saving them.
   []User Profiles Folder:
   • Additionally, ensure that the actual user profile folder (found in C:\Users\) corresponds with the correct user.
   []Reboot and Test:
   • After modifications, reboot the system and test the user logon to check if the profile opens smoothly. Manipulating the ProfileList registry key requires precision. Incorrect modifications might lead to more issues. If unsure, consider seeking expert guidance or professional help to resolve complex user profile problems securely.