Need to repair xp c:\windows\system\config\system file not found?

Question

I do not have a startup disk and am trying to avoid restoring to factory settings. I can get an A:\> prompt but can not get a C: prompt. I can also get into Phoenix Bios but don't know what to do. Can anyone HELP please? I need some step by step instructions if anyone is kind enough to share their knowledge.

Answer 1

Follow this Microsoft knowledgebase article it will solve your problem.

KB307545 How to recover from a corrupted registry that prevents Windows XP from starting

Answer 2

This looks as if you have deleted some system files. The only way round this is to re-install, although if you had the os disc you could do this as a repair. How are you getting the A: prompt? If you are booting from a floppy it will not recognise the c: drive if c: is ntfs. Don't play eith the bios if the machine is booting as far as the file not found warning, the hard drive is being detected correctly to get this far.

Answer 3

You could go for a Windows Repair:

*WindowsXP Repair Explained*
http://www.microsoft.com/resources/documentation/windows/xp/all/proddocs/en-us/options_to_use_when_a_system_will_not_start.mspx?mfr=true

WindowsXP Repair Tools
http://www.webtree.ca/windowsxp/repair_xp.htm#How%20to%20Repair%20Windows%20XP%20by%20Installing%20Over%20top%20of%20Existing%20Setup:

http://www.download-download-this.com/4.html?OVRAW=Windows%20Installer%20corrupted&OVKEY=window%20installer&OVMTC=advanced

Fix and/or Repair Windows
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/tips/xp_repair_install.htm
http://www.onsitechicago.com/support/index.php?_m=knowledgebase&_a=viewarticle&kbarticleid=23&nav=0

Answer 4

go to my computer,right click C go to properties click left,next page go to tool's left click. top bar left click, it will come up to check C, click automatic. it will come up restart computer schedule check files.restart it'll really fix all files,defrag,check folder's.takes about an hour but will be fixed

Answer 5

in bios check to see if sata/ide is set to auto detect. if not swap to that save and reboot. remember setting incase nothing happens you can swap back.