If you unhide hidden files and folders and system files, you'll see these files on the Root directory.
Full format a floppy with XP without checking to make an MS-DOS start up disk and then copy the ntldr, ntdetect.com and YOUR boot.ini file to the floppy. Write protect the floppy and keep in a safe place. You should also look at making a Password recovery floppy.
If the ntldr can not be found error occurs then you can use the floppy to boot to the hard-drive.
This error can occur if too many files are placed on the root directory without them being in the appropriate folder.
