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27146
February 16th, 2010 19:00
Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt: WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\CONFIG\SYSTEM
I have a DELL Dimension E521. When I started my computer this morning I received the error message:
Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt: WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\CONFIG\SYSTEM
The computer would not boot up with the CD reinstall disk so I entered the boot menu in MS DOS and got it to boot up using the cd. I hit R (for repair) and I receive a C:\>. But this is where I am stuck. I originally learned how to use a computer many years ago in DOS but I am very rusty. I cannot seem to find the instructions on how to proceed from this point. Could someone please point me in the right direction?
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mariarharris11
2 Posts
0
February 16th, 2010 19:00
Awesome. Thanks. Now forgive my ignorance but after reading through a ways it says "Do not use the procedure that is described in this article if your computer has an OEM-installed operating system." Isn't that what we have when the OS is installed by the manufacturer (ie DELL)?
Yottabyte
139 Posts
1
February 16th, 2010 19:00
Sounds like you have a corrupted registry.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/307545
This will explain everything in detail to fix the issue.
Yottabyte
139 Posts
0
February 16th, 2010 20:00
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/308402/en-us explains a possible work around. Basically what will happen if you use the OEM version is a password error which this article explains ways around it.
But if not, you will need to obtain a version of Windows XP that has Service Pack 1 already integrated or follow the information for getting boot disks.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/310994/ Information here