Originally Posted by
sgmailer
mbucari1, I know you're trying to help but formatting the hard drive is definitely not the choice to choose here. Let's try to fix the problem and not just delete everything (which may not even fix the anything if the problem truly is with the HD). I mean, if you were asked to fix someone's computer, you wouldn't just go and format right away? At least, try to back up the data (which can be done by using a partitioning software to set aside another partition and then moving the data over to that partition).
If the HD is messed up, the last thing you'll want to do is to erase the file allocation table (thus, eliminating any chances of recovering the present files). There are much better ways of checking for disk problems.
If the problem is that a system file has been deleted, then doing an upgrade of XP should fix the problem.
Once again, be more specific as to what the error message is.
Well, if it was my pc, I would already have everything backed up on internal drives and nothing irreplaceable would be on the windows drive.
If he wants to backup data first, perhaps he should download a copy of BartPE live xp so that he has a gui to backup files. An external HDD would be preferable for backup. You can also use a network cable to transport files to another PC. I would not suggest using partitioning software while in a PE. I tried once and it severly damaged my FS. I had to run a full chkdsk with /r to be able to read the HDD again. Yet another option is to physically remove your HDD from your case (as I have had to do before) and hook it up to a friends computer. Access your user folder and then take ownership of the subdirectories of interest (my docs, app data, etc.); then copy to your friends drive.
After you have backed up everything, DO A FRESH INSTALL.
My point is that in my lengthy and diverse experiences with boot failures, it's not worth time to attempt to fix it. There is most likely little you can possible do. And I already mentioned that I dislike windows restore (has messed up on me before). I think that a clean install is your best option, but that's just my advice. Please explore other options before choosing a course.
Cheers
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