Upon restart I get
Strike f1 to retry boot, f2 for setup utility

F1 gives same message again
F2 brings setup menu but I don't have a clue what to do there.

Computer won't boot.. Posting from iPhone.

What to do? :(

What does the F2 message say?

F2 brings up the setup menu
System time
System date
Drive configuration
Boot sequence
Etc

Do you have your installation CD? It looks like your MBR is corrupt and needs repairing.
Let me know please and we will set about repairing it.

I have been unable to find it so far... unfortunately.

It's a Dell computer about 4.5 years old. Think I should call Dell and ask for a replacement?

Not likely. You really need the Windows installation CD.
Are you able to borrow one?

Can you boot at all into safe mode?

No, it will not boot at all. I may have a recovery cd for another computer at my office.. Also XP but newer, about 2 years old. Think
that would work?

It may work ok. Sometimes later editions do not like playing with older ones, but we will see :).

That is one nasty infection you managed to pick up.

I have seen this happen before when an attempt is made to be rid of it.

Have you managed to back up all your needed files......just in case?

I did back up my c drive on an external last week just in case. I'll go to office and see if I can find the cd in a little while.

I don't suppose a symantec recovery cd would work?

That, I honestly do not know. Windows install CD will, for sure.

I have searched high and low for the Windows install cd with no luck. I'm taking the computer back to the shop. Once I get it back, I will post in the thread again to ask for help checking that they actually did get the virus this time.

Thanks to both of you for your time and help.

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