Missing ntoskrnl.exe in OEM version of XP - how fix without CD?

[Ivan]

Hi, hope someone can help with my problem.
I have a (new) notebook pre-installed with XP Pro. The
manufacturer (Toshiba) supplied complete recovery CDs, but
these do not allow the "repair" option - they are just
complete XP images.

How can I perform an XP Pro "repair" - can I "borrow"
someone else's XP Pro CD? Would there be a serial number
issue? I am a legit user and have the official Microsoft
sticker on the machine etc...

Background: when trying to boot in safe mode to enable me
to scan for a certain virus, I found that I couldnt
because ntoskrnl.exe wasnt found. I'm hoping to install
this missing exe without having to reinstall the whole of
XP. Problem is the OEM installation does not supply CD,
just reinstall image. Does Microsoft supply media for
legit OEM owners? Alternatives?

Thanks for your insights!
Ivan

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Ivan;
Your OEM Product Key and CD are specific to your computer.
Another brand of CD probably will not work with your Product Key.

Since the notebook is OEM, there is nothing Microsoft can do for you
related to CD or Product Key.

Many OEMs have decided their customers are better served by these CDs
with limited capabilities.

Some of the many reasons you paid less for your OEM than retail
Windows XP.

Contact Toshiba and/or check the manual for options.