Windows XP Repair - stalls at C:\WINDOWS prompt

Question

I'm attempting a Repair of Windows XP from the Dell re-installation CD.   After it asks for the Administrator Password (which was left blank) it brings me to a C:\WINDOWS prompt.  Is there a command line executable I need to enter to continue the repair from this point?   I don't want to do a complete Windows re-install because the owner has a ton of files on the PC that they didn't back up (of course).

rollainm · Answer

I came across the same problem when trying to repair XP on my fiancee's laptop. I eventually just gave up and reinstalled the os. Gateway has this nifty recovery option that saves practically everything except programs to a backup folder before reloading XP, so all was not lost. I'd still like to know how to get passed this, though.

Denny Denham · Answer

Another Anchor, You may have pressed 'R' too soon and gotten into Recovery Console. See the steps for a repair reinstallation here.

rollainm · Answer

Heh...wow I'm dumb. That's exactly what I did. Ah well, my problem was solved regardless.

Another Anchor · Answer

Thanks Denny. Pressing 'R' on the first menu presented was the problem.  Silly me thinking I should select the option labeled 'To Repair Windows XP....' if I wanted to Repair Windows XP.  You gotta love the logic behind that wording. PC's restored successfully without any data loss.  You've prevented it from becoming 'another anchor'.    THANKS AGAIN.

Windows General

Windows XP Repair - stalls at C:\WINDOWS prompt

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