DL said:
Re: Windows XP could not start because the following file is missing or
corrupt: \WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\CONFIG\SYSTEM
Checking the kb article 307545 I see it states not to use on an OEM
installation; this PC is an HP, so whats the alternative?
The user didnt create any type of rescue media, and has not backed up
data. I know I can remove the drive to copy data to another sys.
The reason for the warning is that sometimes the repair files aren't there,
or are in a different place. If they *are* where the batch files tell you
to look, then there's no problem at all.
So, either boot from another CD (such as the XP install CD or a Linux CD),
or attach the drive to another system. Check for the file locations, and
if they are where the batch files specify, you can proceed.
However, if you've already attached the drive to another system, then as
long as you've understood what that KB article is describing, you can
perform the whole task with the drive hosted. It's actually quite
straightforward this way, and doesn't take long at all.
This problem is usually a lot less serious than the KB article makes it out
to be. Ultimately, what matters is that the user had System Restore on,
and that there are restore points. If there aren't, you won't be able to
swap in another set of registry hive files and you will only have the
original startup registry. This means that even if you can get it booting
again, you'll have to reinstall all the software as the original registry
predates all other installs.
HTH
-pk
