XP could not start... \Windows\System32\config\system

[Guest]

Hi,

I'm getting the following error message when I turn on my computer:

"Windows XP could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt:

\Windows\System32\Config\System"

I looked at the Microsoft support page on how to fix this at

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=307545

But I am having a problem accomplishing this. In Part One, when I try to
copy the files in the Recovery Console by typing:

copy c:\windows\system32\config\system c:\windows\tmp\system.bak\
.....

I get the message: 'File cannot be copied'.

Does anyone know how I can copy the file or how to get rid of this message?
I wasn't sure if it was because I had to log on as a specific user, but when
I ran Recovery Console, it didn't prompt me for a password.

Thanks,
PML

 

[jg]

do you have a blank password for Administrator. If so, you will likely not
get prompted for password.
the account you should be using is administrator or another one with
administrator power.
sine you are already in the recovery console, you are using administrator
account. therefore you should be able to copy files under recovery console
unless
there is no files
you have picked the wrong installation
you have non standard windows directory name
maybe there was a typo in the source or target


Part 1 of The recovery procedure you mentioned has 3 parts:
a backup the data
b remove the corrupt or damage parts
c copy from repair

if you have to repair the registry as outlined the KB and if you have not
other viable means, then you just carry the part 1a as far as you can,
ignoring the errors. But keep in mind, you will _not_ be able to undo.

Good luck!

 

[Guest]

I can successfully copy:

copy c:\windows\system32\config\sam c:\windows\tmp\sam.bak
copy c:\windows\system32\config\security c:\windows\tmp\security.bak
copy c:\windows\system32\config\default c:\windows\tmp\default.bak

But I only get the 'File could not be copied message' when I try to copy:

copy c:\windows\system32\config\system c:\windows\tmp\system.bak
copy c:\windows\system32\config\software c:\windows\tmp\software.bak

Can I continue with the steps from http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=307545

or will I run into problems or not be able to recover my data?

Thanks,
PML