I get an"Invalid Boot.ini file booting from C:\windows" message when starting up . I use WIN XP. I have done a search for this file which shows 0kb as contents. The computer boots up after this message but I tried to repair or reinstall win xp but because of this file, cannot due to this file being empty. I have noticed this message for quit a while but never realized its significance, so system restore is of no use. I would like help in getting this file reinstalled

You'll have to use the XP cd. Select the option to repair, but make it go into "Recovery Console mode." From there, you can bring up a help menu by typing help or a question mark (?). You're only interested in two commands in the list called "fixboot" and "fixmbr."

You want to run "fixboot" first, then exiting the Recovery Console and seeing if that fixes your issue. If not, retrace your steps back to the Recovery Console and run "fixmbr." You shouldn't have to run "fixmbr," but there is always a possibility.

Also, run chkdsk /r on the system before running fixboot.

These errors just don't occur willy-nilly. There could be some filesystem corruption-- chkdsk /r might help on that angle.

I cannot seem to get to the repair option when using the win xp cd. Please advise and thanks for your help.

Below is how to edit your BOOT.ini:

Most people cannot find BOOT.INI on their hard drive. This is because they have hidden files and have not elected to see them. Open up my computer, choose tools, folder options.
Go to View, choose the option to display system files, and also the option to display hidden files.

Now do a search for BOOT.INI (it should be on C:\ and not in any folders). You can right click on it and choose 'open.' Now you can edit it how you would like to. I've included the default examples for boot.ini for XP and 2000 below.

Here is an example of a boot.ini in XP:
[boot loader]
timeout=30
default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
[operating systems]
multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP Professional" /fastdetect

Here is an example of a boot.ini in 2000
[boot loader]
timeout=30
default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
[operating systems]
multi(0)disk(1)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Windows XP Professional" /fastdetect
multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(2)\WINNT="Windows 2000 Professional" /fastdetect

Thank you very, very much. I followed your win xp edit instuctions and eliminated the messge.

please close this problem>

thank you cool man~

For those of you who are not Genuine, follow this simple step by step instruction.(Note: tested and work on Windows XP Professional and Windows XP Media Center, other, you are on your own do it at your own risk) Step 1: Go to start > All Programs > Accessories and click on Notepad to open. Step 2: Copy and paste the following into notepad: [boot loader] timeout=30 default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS [operating systems] multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP Professional" /fastdetect Step 3: Save it boot.txt Step 4: Move it to C:\ Step 5: Rename it boot.ini You are done, congratulation.

i have the same error message..i tried the suggestion but it didn't work...when searching forr boot.ini in c:/ .. i diddn't find it
most icons disappear from desktop.....i have winxp home...
is there any other suggestion...i check to view all files
let me know please..thanks