windows\system32\config\system

[Guest]

After starting my notebook (Compaq Presario 2100), I received this
troublesome error message: ...windows could not start because the following
file is missing or corrupt - windows\system32\config\system. Having gone
through various help solutions (specifically found following this link
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/307545/en-us) I have found that this file is
not corrupt but gone. When trying to copy c:\windows\system32\config\system,
the message reads - system cannot find the file specified, so is the
c:\windows\repair\system file (same message - system cannot find the file
specified). I cannot start from the last good configuration either nor can I
boot up in Safe Mode. When I opted to reinstall XP, the system warns that
the disc needs to be reformatted which will erase my hard drive - not an
option.

"I've fallen and I can't get up... and running."

Any help would be GREATLY APPRECIATED!!!

Sincerely
Tony

 

[Joe Wright]

After starting my notebook (Compaq Presario 2100), I received this
troublesome error message: ...windows could not start because the following
file is missing or corrupt - windows\system32\config\system.

How to recover from a corrupted registry that prevents Windows XP from
starting
http://support.microsoft.com/?scid=kb;en-us;307545

 

[Guest]

Thanks Joe, but I've followed the recovery instructions and cannot copy the
appropriate files (ie c:\windows\system32\config\system) to a temp file. I
also cannot copy the c:\windows\repair\system file. System cannot find
either specified file.

Tony

 

[Joe Wright]

Thanks Joe, but I've followed the recovery instructions and cannot copy the
appropriate files (ie c:\windows\system32\config\system) to a temp file. I
also cannot copy the c:\windows\repair\system file. System cannot find
either specified file.

Tony

Those are actually folders and their contents you're copying. Make sure
the folder C:\Windows exists with this command:

CD C:\Windows

Then see if the prompt shows you in that folder. It's possible Windows
is installed to another folder. That possibility was mentioned in the
article.