I really screwed up, XP Registry corrupted

[Russ]

I was using a registry comparison tool AND I accidently imported a
registry from another computer onto my system. Windows XP Pro, Toshiba
Laptop, 2.2Gig.
My computer halted from this action and the only thing I was able to
do was shutdown. My computer boots to the screen: WE APPOLOGIZE FOR
THE INCONVENIENCE. BUT WINDOWS DID NOT START SUCCESSFULLY. A RECENT
HARDWARE OR SOFTWARE CHANGE MIGHT HAVE CAUSED THIS...... etc....

From the menu list I cannot boot into safe mode of any kind or last
known configuration. Windows will not start normally either.

Formatting is not an option as I have too many files I can't lose.

I ran the Toshiba recovery disk. The only option was to format and
restore system to factory defaults and wipe the hdd.

Can I create a boot disk and restore the registry some how?

I can't believe I clicked import instead of compare!!!!


Russ

 

[Crusty \(-: Old B@stard :-\)]

Well, you have tried all the options except the one that "isn't an option".

Now you will have to perform a repair install to see if it can clean up your
mess. It is doubtful, as there are now many incorrect registry entries that
may have nothing to do with your computer. A repair install is NOT going to
remove these.

Failing that, you are in for a format/install. Sorry you are going to lose
so much. That's how we all learn the necessity of "backing up" important
data.

 

[R. McCarty]

The following Tech Note might be of some help
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=307545

If you are able to recover from this classic "Oh, Damn"
type of mistake, buy Imaging software and use it, before
doing "Open-Heart Surgery" on your PC.

 

[twest]

Try installing windows again, in a different directory
(windows2) then back up your important data. then format
and reinstall.
HTH

 

[Russ]

What is a repair install? My Recovery CD will only allow a full system
clean and reinstall??

I appreciate the good advise in advance.
Russ

 

[Crusty \(-: Old B@stard :-\)]

To perform a repair install you need a retail copy of Windows XP or a
Microsoft OEM copy of Windows XP (sold only with new systems, I believe)

 

[xfile]

If you still can access Internet via another machine, go to MS KB and try to
get article 307545, How to Recover from a Corrupted Registry that Prevents
Windows XP from starting.

Sorry that I don't have the link here to post it. Good luck!!!

 

[Russ]

Crusty!?
This is an option. I have a XP Upgrade I could use. I did contact ADS
Technologies. They're sending out a backpack drive case for 2 1/2"
Hdd's, Then I'll just plug it into another computer and copy my data
off then Reformat.

Thanks For the Option.
Russ

 

[Russ]

twest,
This is an option. I have a XP Upgrade I could use.
I did order a ADS backpack drive for 2 1/2" drives. I'm going to try it first

Thanks For the Option.
Russ

 

[Alex Nichol]

I was using a registry comparison tool AND I accidently imported a
registry from another computer onto my system. Windows XP Pro, Toshiba
Laptop, 2.2Gig.
My computer halted from this action and the only thing I was able to
do was shutdown. My computer boots to the screen: WE APPOLOGIZE FOR
THE INCONVENIENCE. BUT WINDOWS DID NOT START SUCCESSFULLY. A RECENT
HARDWARE OR SOFTWARE CHANGE MIGHT HAVE CAUSED THIS...... etc....

From the menu list I cannot boot into safe mode of any kind or last
known configuration. Windows will not start normally either.

Formatting is not an option as I have too many files I can't lose.

I ran the Toshiba recovery disk. The only option was to format and
restore system to factory defaults and wipe the hdd.

Provided you have a floppy drive, you can get the set of six
boot-floppies as a single download (that runs to generate them) at
http://support.microsoft.com/?scid=kb;en-us;310994

Then read up the method at
http://support.microsoft.com/?scid=kb;en-us;307545

Boot the floppy set, and apply that method

And good luck!