corrupt file. how do i save my files?!?!?

Question

my sisters computer wont start. it says there is a corrupt file. is there anyway i can get into dos mode or something to try and save some of her files before i format the hard drive??

Answer 1

First what is the operating system. If it is WinXP or XP Media Center, then you can attempt to re-install these operating system using the original CD.

Alternatively you can remove the hard disk from your sister's PC and attach it to the Slave connector of your PC and copy the data from that to yours.

Here is a piece of advice whenever you buy a new PC. Tell the shop guy to partition your hard disk to C: and D:. You can install the operating system in C: and keep all the data in D:. This way even if you have to reinstall the operating system by formatting C:, you will NEVER loose the data in D:. Unless ofcourse the harddisk itself is corrupted and needs re-formatting.

However in your case, its just a single file, a simple OS install will help. Put the original CD in the drive and restart the PC. Im sure it will repair that file. Or take it to the Computer Shop he will backup the data before re-install...

Hope this helps..

.:Fishie:.

Answer 2

Aldo2's suggestion about System Restore is good. (I don't know why most people don't make use of that program.)

Try System Restore first. You can access the program from Safe Mode. I think the System Restore icon is in the Start|Program Files|Accessories|System Tools menu.
Any changes you make with System Restore is reversible. Of course, your sister's computer won't boot, so it can't get much worse anyway!

When you start Safe Mode, Windows will ask you if you want to continue with Safe Mode.
Select 'Yes.' If you select No, Windows will use System Restore to restore back by the last save point. Don't select No, because you can use System Restore to restore back to a week before if you want. The last System Restore point might also be corrupt.

Answer 3

Try restarting in "Safe Mode"

Shut down computer
Turn it on again. but this time as soon as you see the PC maker's log (like DELL, HP. Sony, etc.) start pressing the F8 key continually until you get a screen that allows you to start in "Safe Mode". You will have to use the arrow key to move down to select "Safe Mode".
NOTE: in "Safe Mode" the screen resolution will change and things will look funky. But that is OK.
Then you should be able to save what you want.

You also may be able to do a System Restore to the date your system worked OK and be back in business in a few minutes.

Good Luck

Answer 4

i don't think so there is ne way..coz even i lost all my files.the prob of all probs is ur sis' system isn't starting.....