How to verify or repair Windows XP core files

[CrazyHorse]

I'd like to check if any of my core windows files have been corrupted by a
virus.

I've tried running the Windows File Protection command (sfs /scannow or sfs
/purgecache), but on restart it asks for Windows XP CD1 which I have from
Dell, but then asks for Windows XP CD2, which I don't have (and didn't know
existed).

Also, I've tried booting for the install CD to do a 'repair' install, but it
says the version I have (XP SP3) is newer than that on the CD. True.

So, how do I verify my core files with Windows XP SP3?

thanks,

CH

 

[Mark L. Ferguson]

You uninstall the service pack down to the level of the setup media you
have.

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[db.·.. >]

what you will need to
do is to uninstall sp3
via add/remove programs.

afterwards, do a chkdsk
to ensure your master file
table is stable.

then you can use your
sp2 cd to either do an
sfc /scannow

or

a repair installation:

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/helpandsupport/learnmore/tips/doug92.mspx

-------------

--

db·´¯`·...¸><)))º>
DatabaseBen, Retired Professional
- Systems Analyst
- Database Developer
- Accountancy
- Veteran of the Armed Forces

 

[CrazyHorse]

Hi,
I thought of that, but to get down to the same version of windows that is on
the CD wouldn't I need to remove every update, security fix, hotfix, etc...
(There have been a lot since SP3 came out)

CH

 

[db.·.. >]

that is absolutely correct
and the unfortunate truth,
that all the time taken to
update sp2 was wiped away
by sp3.

i have read the white paper
on it, and sp3 has no real
advantages over sp2.

therefore, imho sp3 was simply a
marketing ploy for repackaging
winxp since vista had been on the
store shelves for a long time prior.

on the flip side of this coin,
you could take the time and
trouble of making your own
sp3 win cd referred as a
slipstream.

but at this point in time,
because your o.s. is presently
corrupted then slipstreaming
is not an option.

the priority would be to
get your system functional
again with the tools you have
in hand.

later sp3 can then be
reinstalled if you choose.

--

db·´¯`·...¸><)))º>
DatabaseBen, Retired Professional
- Systems Analyst
- Database Developer
- Accountancy
- Veteran of the Armed Forces