Failed to access IIS metabase

Steps to fix:

1. Completely reinstall IIS 5.1 (uninstall, reboot, delete C:\Inetpub folder, install).
2. Register .NET for IIS (first v2 then v4): (Error message = "Failed to access IIS metabase")
   • In command prompt, go to the appropriate folder (e.g. cd C:\WINDOWS\Microsoft.NET\Framework\v2.0.50727)
   • aspnet_regiis -i
   • iisreset
     • If this step fails with the error "The service did not respond to the start or control request in a timely fashion. (2147943453, 8007041d)", silently curse from the frustration, and restart the site manually through the IIS console (Start -> Programs -> Administrative Tools -> Internet Information Services). If you are (rightfully) paranoid, restart your PC.
3. Add READ access to Everyone
   • Download MetaAcl
   • Open command prompt
   • Metaacl.vbs "IIS://localhost/W3SVC"
     • View current access (Everyone only has E)
   • Metaacl.vbs "IIS://localhost/W3SVC" Everyone R
     • THIS FIXED IT
4. Add IIS Virtual Directory
   • You know, in the IIS console for the "Default Web Site."
5. Reminders on publishing: (you should know this already)
   • Windows authentication ( in web.config) requires you to enable Integrated Windows Authentication in the IIS Directory Security.
   • It helps to disable anonymous access. (Add in web.config, or uncheck "anonymous access" in the IIS Directory Security)
6. Configure IIS virtual folder
   • IIS Configuration Mappings (Right-click the virtual folder -> Properties -> Virtual Directory Tab -> Configuration -> Mappings Tab)
   • Add extension ".*", exec path = (copy from the ".aspx" extension)
   • Uncheck "check that the file exists"
   • Click OK (this goes without saying)
7. Load your website in your favourite browser.

Ref: http://stackoverflow.com/questions/3883530/asp-net-mvc-2-windows-xp-and-iis-5-1