Member Avatar for L.T

my pc is saying when starting up windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt :\windows\system32\config\system

now ive seen loads of offer posts but all of the replys seem to say that you going to need a reboot cd or the origeinal copy but i have been a bit naughty and not had the proper version of windows (pirate copy) soo i tried putting my cd back but no response and ive tried going in and pressing f8 and tried all the options in that window but still im stuck soo can anyone please HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and im in desprate need as im a very pc kind of person !!!! please help me !!!!:sad:

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Dani AI

Generated

This message means Windows cannot load the registry hive called SYSTEM (the files under C:\Windows\System32\config). That prevents XP from finishing boot. Corruption can come from a failed update, disk errors, or a mis-mounted drive (as pointed out). Before doing anything destructive, copy your personal files off the drive by attaching it to another PC or booting a Linux/Rescue CD.

A commonly effective, low‑impact fix is to restore the registry hives from the Repair folder. From a boot/rescue environment (Recovery Console, BartPE/Hiren's or similar), back up the current hives, then copy the hives from C:\Windows\repair into C:\Windows\System32\Config. Example Recovery Console commands (only if comfortable and you have a matching XP disk or rescue media):

cd \windows\system32\config
ren system system.bak
ren software software.bak
ren sam sam.bak
ren security security.bak
ren default default.bak
copy c:\windows\repair\system c:\windows\system32\config\system
copy c:\windows\repair\software c:\windows\system32\config\software
copy c:\windows\repair\sam c:\windows\system32\config\sam
copy c:\windows\repair\security c:\windows\system32\config\security
copy c:\windows\repair\default c:\windows\system32\config\default
exit

Cautions and next steps: the Repair copies may be from a different service pack and can cause driver/boot issues; after restoring, run a disk check and either do a repair-install of XP or a full reinstall to get proper updates. If the Repair folder is missing, corrupted, or copying fails (disk hardware errors), prioritize backing up data and consider a drive swap or professional help. ’s drive-install workaround can work, but restoring the registry is quicker and far less likely to wipe data.

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Member Avatar for Chaky

I had same problem like you. It was caused by plugging in an USB HD. If you have done the same, you'll need to install (or begin to install) XP on that drive, because your current drive crashes the setup program. (it fails at the same spot as when XP tries to boot. Corrupted registry file(s) do that.)

If you don't hve external HD, you'll need to find/borrow/buy/steal one.
You need it just to get your system going.

The procedure is:

Plug in the HD (or install additional internal HD)
Disable/disconnect the old drive
Install the XP on the other drive (don't have to go all the way)
Enable/connect old drive.
Boot with Setup CD.
Choose R for repair console
Choose new xp installation to log in to.
Find the "windows\system32\config\" folder on your old drive
type "del *.*"
type "exit" or "quit"
reboot and reinstall the windows on your old drive (at this point you don't need the new drive).

Member Avatar for L.T

cheers m8 ill try that

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