OLEXP: Error Message "MSIMN Performed an Illegal Operation" When Connecting to the Internet

SYMPTOMS

When you attempt to connect to the Internet by using Outlook Express, you may receive one of the following error messages:

MSIMN performed an illegal operation.

-or-

MSIMN caused a general protection fault in module TAPI.DLL

CAUSE

This issue can occur if the Telephon.ini file is missing or damaged.

RESOLUTION

To resolve this issue, rebuild the Telephon.ini file.

120221 How to Rebuild the Telephon.ini File

SUMMARY

If the Telephon.ini file in the Windows folder is missing or is damaged, you can create a new one by running the file Tapiini.exe. Tapiini.exe is located in the WindowsSystem folder. Before you run Tapiini.exe, rename the Telephon.ini file, if it exists.

To create a new Telephon.ini file:

Rename the Telephon.ini file (if it exists) in the Windows folder to Telephon.old.

Restart your computer.
Double-click the Tapiini.exe file in the WindowsSystem folder. Note that this program runs very quickly; nothing may appear to happen. If you are not sure, check the Windows folder to verify that a Telephon.ini file was created.