Mac OS: "Finder Could Not Start" Error Message

Symptom

The computer does not finish starting up. You see an alert box with an error message that says:

"Finder could not start because 'DragLib-SetDragImage' could not be loaded."

Solution

Using the Software Restore or Software Install CD-ROM disc

1. Find the Software Restore or Software Install disc that came with your computer (or another disc that can be used as a startup disk).

2. Turn the computer on (or click Restart if the alert box is still on the screen).

3. Insert the disc.

4. Press the C key on the keyboard to start up the computer from the disc.

5. Open the computer's hard disk.

6. Open the System Folder.

7. Open the Extensions folder.

8. Find these files (one or both may be present):

• Macintosh Drag and Drop
• DragLib

9. Drag these files to the Trash.

10. Open the Startup Disk control panel.

11. Click the icon of your computer's hard disk.

12. Close the Startup Disk control panel.

13. Choose Restart from the Special menu.

OR

Disable extensions during startup

1. Turn the computer on (or click Restart if the alert box is still on the screen).

2. Press on hold the shift key.
This disables extensions and control panels.

3. Open the computer's hard disk.

4. Open the System Folder.

5. Open the Extensions folder.

6. Find these files (one or both may be present):

• Macintosh Drag and Drop
• DragLib

7. Drag these files to the Trash.

8. Choose Restart from the Special menu.

Some earlier software installers may install these extensions, which result in this error. Mac OS 9.1 ignores these extensions if they are installed, and does not produce this alert box and error message.