Can't reboot after failed system restore

Question

I attempted a system restore as the first step in repairing my Dell Dimension 8200 running XP Home which had been running VERY slowly with increasing lockups.  The computer stalled indefinitely during System Restore so I had no choice but to power down.  Now upon booting up,  the computer runs a diagnostic saying that I had a problem in my last reboot, gives me some choices (normal boot, boot with last known workable configuration, safe mode, etc) and then proceeds to reboot depending on the choice.  No matter what I choose, the computer eventually gets past the Windows XP logo and then stops at a black screen with a white arrow that is movable with the mouse.  I tried using the XP bootable CD and did a 'Repair' installation which seemed successful, but upon booting, I get to the same point with the same black screen.  What can I do to complete the bootup?  I NEED to get back to that hard drive to back up what was done in the last few days.  Then I can do a clean install and start over. I did see some ideas about repairing possible corrupt BIOS  settings, but the ideas were discouraged for users with OEM XP.   Any thoughts would be great.

Dr.Knowitall · Answer

Well, when and if you can get booted into windows, there's a way to reinstall system restore by itself.

Try the option "last known good configuration", if that doesnt work that means your registry is fine. Otherwise get to a DOS prompt and type in "sfc /scannow" , this will scan your system files and see if there are any that are corrupted and fix them.

xytrielle · Answer

can you undo the system restoration. and try doing the system restore on safemode... i prefer doing the system restore in safe mode not in normal mode... coz based on my experience it could cost you a lot of problems when doing system restore in normal mode. just try the safe mode dude.

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