You may have noticed that by default, Windows automatically runs any CD you put into the CD-ROM drive. You may also have noticed that this process can be really annoying, especially if you have a slow CD drive and you just want to get a file off the CD and NOT install software. This process is called Autorun and is controlled by a little file on the CD called Autorun.ini. When Windows finds this file on the CD, it does whatever the file tells it to, which may be opening up a dialog box or starting a software installation.
There is something you can do to tell Windows to cease and desist on the Autorunning thing. If you know you don't want the CD to run, hold down the Shift key while you put the CD in the drive. You'll see the hourglass momentarily, but then it will just go away without running anything.
If you want to disable the process completely, you also can change one setting in the Windows 98 Control Panel and it will never do it again. To disable it:
1. Choose Start|Settings|Control Panel.
2. Double click System and click the click the Device Manager tab.
3. Double click the CD-ROM icon and you'll see your CD-ROM drive listed.
4. Right-click your CD-ROM drive and click the Settings tab.
5. Click to remove the check mark next to Auto insert notification.
6. Click OK, and then Close.
You need to restart Windows for your changes to have an effect. But you will be rewarded with a non-automated CD-ROM drive. If you end up needing to install software later and want to enable the feature again, just go back into the CD properties and put the check mark back. |
