Boot Error: windows\system32\config\system

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I am running WinXP Pro on an IBM ThinkPad. I recently ran into an error
when I tried to boot. It stops immediately and gives the message: Windows
cannot start - the following file is missing or corrupted:
windows\system32\config\system
It then asks for the Windows Setup CD - which of course I do not have as it
is an OEM installation. IBM has made it clear that they have my money and
could care less if the machine works (still under warranty, but they will
not help with software).

What can I do now?
 
Unlisted said:

I am running WinXP Pro on an IBM ThinkPad. I recently ran into an error
when I tried to boot. It stops immediately and gives the message: Windows
cannot start - the following file is missing or corrupted:
windows\system32\config\system
It then asks for the Windows Setup CD - which of course I do not have as it
is an OEM installation. IBM has made it clear that they have my money and
could care less if the machine works (still under warranty, but they will
not help with software).

What can I do now?
Click to expand...

Try a boot into Safe Mode, by hitting F8 just before the "Starting
Windows" screen would appear (takes a bit of practice).
Choose LAST GOOD.

If that isn't applicable, use a working PC to read these sites...

How to Recover from a Corrupted Registry
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;q307545
describes a three-step process to extract a copy of the registry
from the System Restore SVI folder.

http://WWW.WEBTREE.CA/windowsxp/ (repair console/restore tutorial)
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q314874
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_sys32.htm

After your system is restored, the ERUNT utility available here may
make it easier to fix the problem if it recurs...
http://HOME.T-ONLINE.DE/home/lars.hederer/erunt

If the problem persists, try swapping current RAM (even if it checks
good) for a single, high-quality 512Mb chip. XP reportedly is sensitive
to memory timing.
 
Maybe you can buy retail copy of XP, full or upgrade ( cheaper in price if
you have a Win 98 product ) , money well spent. Jym
 
Thanks for the advice and the links. I was able to set up the 6-disk floppy
boot set, and get into the Recovery Console that way. However, now it is
asking for a file that does not seem to be there. The instructions refer to
refreshing a list of files from the Windows\Repair directory. The one file
listed as being the problem is shown in that directory!

Any comments?
 
Thanks to those who replied!!! Between the links, the advice and the moral
support (much more than I got from IBM or my employer's Help(less) Desk, I
have my computer going again. I am busily backing up all the data, which
had slipped through the cracks of my normal back ups - filling many CD's in
the process, but at least I will be full covered!

Thanks to all!
 
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