recovery console password error

Question

I recently received the following message on my Inspiron 6000

lsass.exe - System Error
Security Accounts Manager initialization failed because of the following error: The handle is invalid Error Status: 0xc0000008. Please click OK to shutdown this system and reboot into Safe Mode check the event log for more detailed information. I cannot boot in any mode.

I have found options for fixing this problem that I would like to try. However, when I go to the recovery console booting from a disk, it tells me my password is invalid, but I don't have one. I need to know how to get past this so I can try the fix for my other problem.

I read on this forum that this is a virus, but I showed the error message to the "Geek Squad" at Best Buy and they assured me this was not a viruse, that it is a software problem.

I know I can re-image my computer, but I don't want to lose everything on my computer, and would like to try other options if at all possible.

Can anyone help me?

BELL BOY · Answer

Looks like it’s all part of same problem – a corrupt registry hive or at least the SAM part

Depends if you have previously tried any fixes quote, “I have found options for fixing this problem that I would like to try”, using MS KB article 307545 or other “cloned” versions – should not be used for OEM preinstalled WXP

When Password prompt appears have you tried just pressing the Enter key (default blank password)?

Finally, read this thread, includes Dell Support link for lsass.exe system error fix using WXP Reinstallation CD

ld1429 · Answer

Thank you for your response!!    I purchaseed a program online that allowed me to save any data that I wanted to by booting my computer off of the CD.  The software is Spotmau Powersuite 2007.  It was easy to use.   I was able to transfer all of my photos, music, data that I didn't want to lose onto a usb flash drive and then safely store it on my desktop.    The computer with the problem was my laptop.  The control-F11 function was so simple.  Had I known that, i would have backed up my system months ago and re-imaged then.  I simply started the restore process and walked away.  When I returned, it was finished and my computer booted right up.    My computer is up and running like brand new.

BELL BOY · Answer

Good news then :smileyvery-happy:

Thanks for the feedback, DSR utility (Ctrl+F11) is a handy tool, note it can become damaged if you ever do a WXP reinstall or use certain commands that change hard drive original master boot record (MBR)

Windows General

recovery console password error

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