Computer won't start because of missing or corrupt file

[desperate]

Everytime I start my computer it gives me the message Windows\System32\config\system because the file is missing or corrupt, I have a XP cd, but nothing happens when I reboot. It just takes me back to the same windows\systems...... message! It's as if the computer only has that one page on the whole thing! Any suggestions? I don't mind loosing everything on the computer, I just want it to work again eventually!

[Allan]

Boot to your CD and select Recovery Console.

Type the following:

REN C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\CONFIG\SYSTEM SYSTEM.OLD
COPY C:\WINDOWS\REPAIR\SYSTEM C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\CONFIG

[desperate]

Thanks for your response! How do I boot to my cd if it just gives me the same response again. After the Windows\system32\config\system message, it gives me the option to press 'r' and when I do, it just reboots and gives me the same message... Windows\System32\config\system again - it's very frustrating!

[Allan]

Change the boot order in bios so the cd is first on the list then reboot with the cd in the drive.

[desperate]

THanks, it feels like progress!
However, the REN command works, but when I type in the COPY command it says 'the system cannot find the file specified' ?

[Allan]

In the following line make sure there is a space between "SYSTEM" and "C"
COPY C:\WINDOWS\REPAIR\SYSTEM space here C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\CONFIG

[desperate]

It's not working, still ssys the system cannot find the file specified - I've had a friend check it with me...

[Allan]

Okay, then you'll have to do a repair install. Boot to the XP CD and this time choose the SECOND repair option, allowing XP to install on top of itself. All files and settings should remain intact. When you are finished, be sure to go to Microsoft Update and download & install all updates.

[desperate]

Thanks Allan - I've now managed to get as far as installing windows again, however the installation just goes to a blue screen after the installation period - when the computer should start 'finalizing installation'. I've tried rebooting and starting all over, but it still stalls after 'Installing Windows' as the 'finalizing installation' piece begins...? Any suggestions?

[Allan]

You ARE doing a repair install and not a new install, right (not that there's much you can do about it either way at this point)? What is the installer doing just before you see the blue screen (what was the last successful step in the installation process)? Is there an error message on the blue screen? If so, what is it?

[desperate]

It takes me through the Installation process and that seems to finish because it moves over to 'Finalizing Installation' 9 minutes remaining and then a blue screen with nothing on it... - I'm supposed to be doing a repair, but good question, it does take me through the setup Windows process...?

[Allan]

What is the installer doing just before you see the blue screen (what was the last successful step in the installation process)?

[desperate]

It said Finalizing installation ... setup will complete in approximately 9 minutes ...saving settings ... then I can hear the cd run for about 5 more seconds and then the blue screen...