XP Pro repair problem (any help?)

[MoReBeEr(VB)]

My sisters computer has a problem.

It's running XP Pro
When booting up a message comes up that says there's a problem with
- \windows\system32\config\system
and asks to repair Xp Pro.

Now i know how to run XP repair but are there any alternative programs to fix this part of windows?

Or should i just repair then reinstall everything which don't work again?
Or bite the bullet & go for a format then fresh install of Xp?

Thanks in advance.

[peat moss]

Have you tried 'Last known good configuration’ option ? You hit F8 at boot then look at the options . It could be a corrupted file or driver , or missing Regfiles .

[david02]

if you repair windows , all programs and settings stay the same I think.correct me if I am wrong

[peat moss]

No your right David , I was thinking he can't boot to windows so try f8 to access safemode or other options . Boot from cd then repair is a an option as well .

I googled a fix here :

http://xphelpandsupport.mvps.org/how_do_i_repair_a_missing_or_cor1.htm

[fred861]

try running "sfc /scannow"