I was downloading and installing some updates on my other
computer which is running Windows XP. It froze while it
was installing and it had to be powered off. When i
restarted it it said loading backup and froze again. Now
when i turn it on i get a black screen with a white
blinking cursor. I dont know what to do!! please help!

James wrote:

> I was downloading and installing some updates on my other
> computer which is running Windows XP. It froze while it
> was installing and it had to be powered off. When i
> restarted it it said loading backup and froze again. Now
> when i turn it on i get a black screen with a white
> blinking cursor. I dont know what to do!! please help!

Try booting into safe mode. Restart the computer and tap the F8 key
repeatedly until you get the safe mode menu. Choose safe mode. If that
boots go to system restore and restore to a date just before installing
the updates.

If that doesn't work you may need to do a repair install. Note that you
will loose all MS udpates and have to reapply. Might be a good time
then to install SP2.

How to do a Repair Install
http://michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

Installing Service Packs
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar/xpsp2.htm

SP2 Pre-Install, Install, Tidying Up Afterwards
http://forum.aumha.org/viewforum.php?f=45

Free Technical Support for SP2
http://support.microsoft.com/default...doffer80&sd=GN

What to Know Before You Download and Install Windows XP Service Pack 2
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/s...hattoknow.mspx

Get the Latest Updates and Information from Your PC Manufacturer Before
Installing Windows XP Service Pack 2
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/sp2/oemlinks.mspx

Using programs and hardware with Service Pack 2 (SP2)
http://support.microsoft.com/default...h;ln;xpsp2swhw

If running Office 2003 make sure you have the latest Service Pack
http://office.microsoft.com/home/default.aspx

Windows XP Service Pack 2 Support Center
http://support.microsoft.com/default...S;windowsxpsp2