boot process?

Question

my computer is using windows XP and it can't boot past the first the dell screen, where it displays dell dimension 8100, then f2 on the top right corner, the next thing that comes on the screen is a cursor on the top left corner. not sure why the operating system is not working. I can get into the bios, and the date is current.
I don't know what's going on. any ideas??

Answer 1

Here is a list of free WindowsXP repair programs. Hopefully, one of them will solve your problem. You may have to have your CD handy.


http://search.yahoo.com/search?ei=utf-8&fr=slv8-&p=%2bfree%20WindowsXP%20repair

Answer 2

there could be numerous reasons for why your os isnt loading correctly,for example it could be a spyware infection or more seriously a boot loader virus
but dont worry sometimes it can just be a error in the boot ini. process which is responsible for loading your operating system at start up
i would firstly restart in safe mode by pressing f8(tap it gently at boot up) and choose safe mode,when it gets to the desktop it will give you a option to use system restore,choose this and try restoring your computer to a earlier time than this problem,this would be the most obvious solution
if this dosent work,then again in safe mode,try "last known good configuration",,this may give you a solution
personally i would use your system recovery disk,this is a disk that came with your computer when you first bought it,and all you need to do is place this in your dvd-rom and when the xp splash screen appears pick install windows xp
note:the recovery disk will return your computer to its defualt state,this is the way your computer was when you first took it out of the box,you will also lose all your saved data but as you cant get to your desktop to back up any data you wont be able to do anything about this
finally it may be worth opening the p.c case and checking that all the hardware and leads are correctly fitted and in good working order,you will be suprised how hardware can affect the correct working order of your operating system
for example,i recently fixed a p.c which refused to boot up totally,the reason was a c.p.u fan that was totally clogged up with dust,such to the extent that it wouldnt spin,so windows refused to start up as a saftey precuation(so the c.p.u would,nt overheat)
i hope this has helped you
good luck

Answer 3

try safe mode, system restore, last known config.

If not, put your disc in, boot to disc, select repair.

Answer 4

safe mode, system restore,

Answer 5

format hard drive and reinstall