Windows could not start ...

[Kent]

Hello,
When trying to start the computer I get the following
error message:

Windows could not start because the following file is
missing or corrupt:
\windows\system32\config\system
You can attempt to repair this file by starting Windows
Setup using the original Setup CD-Rom. Select 'r' at the
first screen to start repair.

I have tried the repair with chkdsk /r but still get the
error message...
I have tried to start windows with F8 and use the last
known good windows configuration but still get the
error...

Any ideas on how to fix this error short of format and
reinstall XP ???

Thanks for your help,
Kent

 

[Jym]

Here is the MS fix for your problem. Jym
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q307545

 

[Eddie]

Is this a common problem as I have this also.
Eddie

 

[Jym]

Very common. I've had it twice. It would be nice if a repair install would
fix this problem , but it won't. Jym

 

[dev]

Jym said:

Very common. I've had it twice. It would be nice if a repair install would
fix this problem , but it won't.

Try a boot into Safe Mode, by hitting F8 just before the "Starting
Windows" screen would appear (takes a bit of practice).
Choose LAST GOOD.

If that isn't applicable, use a working PC to read these sites...

How to Recover from a Corrupted Registry
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;q307545
describes a three-step process to extract a copy of the registry
from the System Restore SVI folder.

http://WWW.WEBTREE.CA/windowsxp/ (repair console/restore tutorial)
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q314874
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_sys32.htm

After your system is restored, the ERUNT utility available here may
make it easier to fix the problem if it recurs...
http://HOME.T-ONLINE.DE/home/lars.hederer/erunt

If the problem persists, try swapping current RAM (even if it checks
good) for a single, high-quality 512Mb chip. XP reportedly is sensitive
to memory timing.

 

[Jym]

Jym said:


Try a boot into Safe Mode, by hitting F8 just before the "Starting
Windows" screen would appear (takes a bit of practice).
Choose LAST GOOD.

If that isn't applicable, use a working PC to read these sites...

How to Recover from a Corrupted Registry
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;q307545
describes a three-step process to extract a copy of the registry
from the System Restore SVI folder.

http://WWW.WEBTREE.CA/windowsxp/ (repair console/restore tutorial)
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q314874
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_sys32.htm

After your system is restored, the ERUNT utility available here may
make it easier to fix the problem if it recurs...
http://HOME.T-ONLINE.DE/home/lars.hederer/erunt

If the problem persists, try swapping current RAM (even if it checks
good) for a single, high-quality 512Mb chip. XP reportedly is sensitive
to memory timing.

And your reasoning for tagging on to my reply to Kent is? Jym

 

[Kent]

Hello Jym,
Thanks for your help, I have the computer working again,
and life is good...
Thanks again,
Kent

 

[Jym]

Kent ,

You're welcome , glad that got it fixed. . Jym