the message is:
Windows could not start because this file is missing or corrupt
\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\CONFIG\SYSTEM
You can attempt to repair this file by starting WINDOWS SETUP using the original setup CDROM
1. i dont have the original setup disc because the PC is like 8 yrs old.
2. it gets past the BIOS but gives me this message trying to load windows.
3. i have tried to find a way to format the HDD but i cant find any.
2006-10-28 22:37:09 · 10 answers · asked by Michael G 2 in Computers & Internet ➔ Software
Judging by the file you are referring to i think you have a corrupted registry,
This is serious stuff and the only way out i know of is to reinstall.
Without the original install CD you are in deep trouble.
Usuall cause of registry corruption is virus or massive spyware /scumware attacks.
Sorry but a new PC is required.
2006-10-28 23:11:49 · answer #1 · answered by psychodad 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
This is probably not what you want to hear but if you dont have the original setup CD you are indeed fucked. With an 8 year old PC im guessing its an old operating system you're running, ask around, a lot of people dont throw old system discs away. My ultimate answer is ditch the machine and get a new one and copy from the old hard drive anything that you cant live without.
Not massively helpfull im afraid but thats the position you're in mate - sorry.
2006-10-29 05:44:17 · answer #2 · answered by thecoldvoiceofreason 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
To format the HDD get hold of a boot disc.
This just contains command.com
Put the boot disc in and type format c:
you could try by passing the windows system file by pressing, (while the system if booting), F8.
It may or may not work but either way, if you have a friend who has the same OS as you, it 'might' be able to restore the boot sequence.
2006-10-29 05:57:31 · answer #3 · answered by «Dave» 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Beg borrow or steal a bootable floppy for your OS, like an emergency recovery disk, and you can format your C: drive from there. Maybe you can even look on your C: drive for a CAB copy of the OS and recover the system with that?
Depending on the OS you may find a Repair Console which is a command line console screen that allows access to the PC if the OS won't load.
2006-10-29 06:35:14 · answer #4 · answered by Drew - Axeman 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Without the file, Windows won't load. Without Windows, you don't have a method of reinstating the file even if someone gives you a copy of it.
You need an operating system to format the hard drive, but this won't help you if you don't have the installation disk.
If the firm who sold you the PC still exist, they may be able to supply a replacement installation or rescue disk. Otherwise, I suggest you go to eBay and get yourself a new copy of Windows.
2006-10-29 05:46:48 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
First of all try doing a web search on the error message you've typed above. Its likely other people have had the same problem.
As a last resort, you could try getting a copy of windows XP and installing that on top of the existing (damaged) operating system. To do this just boot the machine off the XP CDROM and it should recognise the existing installation.
Good luck.
2006-10-29 05:51:24 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
go to a computer with the same operating system (win 95, win 98, 2000 whatever) and copy the file to floppy. also make a floppy boot disk while you are at it. put boot floppy into drive and boot the computer. when the computer boots, it will be in DOS mode with " A:\" prompt , type in "c" and enter. you get "c:\" prompt. take out boot floppy and put in floppy with copied file and type in " copy a: c:\windows\system32\config\syst..." it will reply with either "access denied" or " there's already a flie named...over-write(Y/N)? if you get access denied, you'll have to change the attributes of that file then over-write it. if not, type in "Y". femove floppy and try a reboot.
OR
find someone with a start up cd and re-install the operating system.
good luck
2006-10-29 05:57:40 · answer #7 · answered by oldguy 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
i'd go for either a new comp or a new copy of windows. you could try to borrow a copy but you'd need the extreamly long pass key.
2006-10-29 05:46:06 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
You need to get a valid windows disc and reinstall it
2006-10-29 05:42:13 · answer #9 · answered by MC 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
welp.....looks like your fucked
2006-10-29 05:40:06 · answer #10 · answered by Mr. Lemons 4 · 0⤊ 3⤋