Computer will not boot

[Guest]

My computer was having some difficulties and I didn't address them soon
enough. So all of a sudden my computer won't boot up. I get a black screen
with the following 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.

Well I tried to follow this advice with the fear that my hard drive might
get wiped-out. (Which would not be good). I tried two different disks that I
had. But neither of them worked. It just kept going back to the same screen.
I don't know if I was using the right disk or not. There were a bunch that
came with my computer. Bythe way I have Windows XP Home Edition. I tried the
Microsoft Office Small Business Edition 2003 disk and the Drivers and
Utilities disk for Reinstalling Dell Inspiron System Software.

ANy suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Guest]

Hello Coopaloop,

I believe that the only solution for this issue is by using the Setup
CD-ROM. This CD contains the necessary files required to start your computer
in Windows again.

My suggestion is when looking through your CDs, look for keywords "Operating
System" or "Windows XP Home Edition." Those are usually pretty good hints
that the CD is the Setup CD-ROM. Once you have located that, follow the
original instructions to start the repair, and you should have Windows
running again.

When finished, keep that CD and any other software CD in a place where it is
easily located.