Problem with multi boot workstation can't get WinXP Pro to boot

[Guest]

Hi,

I have a workstation that has Win98, WinXP Pro, and SBServer 2003 in a
multi-boot configuration. The WinXP Pro will not boot after installation of
some service packs. I can't get to it from a floppy or CD. The Win98 and
SBServer 2003 still boot fine. How can I get to WinXP to access system
restore?

Thanks in advance for your help.

 

[Mark L. Ferguson]

See if you get to Safe Mode with Command Prompt, on the F8 startup menu.

HOW TO Start System Restore Tool from Command Prompt (Q304449):
http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q304/4/49.asp

If not, an Upgrade or "Repair" setup is next.

If you run an XP "Upgrade"setup, from the original, or "Gold" version of the setup CD, and you have SP2 installed, it might go into
a setup loop, and you could lose your install. Uninstall SP2, BEFORE you Upgrade setup from CD (that lacks sp2 on it.)
875350 - How to remove Windows XP Service Pack 2 from your computer: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?kbid=875350

How to Perform a Windows XP Repair Install: http://michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

 

[Guest]

I was able to boot from the cd, but not able to do anything in recovery
console to stop the reboot loop. Other suggestions you made will not work
unless I can boot into windows. Micrososft really needs to put back the
scanreg /restore command so you can get back an old registry from the command
line. Am now in process of clean install of windows. This is bad for users.
There must be some other way to save the current install of windows.

J G

 

[Mark L. Ferguson]

:/ start/run, type: %SystemRoot%\system32\ntbackup.exe

 

[Guest]

Does that command work from the recovery console? If not, it wouldn't have
done me any good. It's too late now anyway, I have had to do a new install.

JG

 

[David Candy]

You just copy them at the recovery console.

type in help
recovery registry
while online

 

[Alan Smith]

Perhaps you could investigate what the recovery console does now before you
invest a lot of time into your computer so you have some experience of it in
case you have problems in the future? Try it?