Sick Laptop

[Hopkirk]

Our 5 year old laptop, on XP, has been playing up a bit recently.

Now it has a message:

Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt
\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\CONFIG\SYSTEM

It then asks for the original set up discs, but we didn't get any with the computer. (I now hear I should have made some 'recovery discs', but I didn't know that before)

Any suggestions?

[Nibble]

If you can follow this then try...


http://support.microsoft.com/kb/307545

[Hopkirk]

Unfortunately it says not to do that if it has OEM installed operating system

[Buenchico]

Have you tried holding down F8 during the boot process? If it works, it will take you into Safe Mode, from where you can access System Restore. (Start > Programs > Accessories > System Tools > System Restore).

[ChuckFickens]

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/307545

[Hopkirk]

I'm an idiot - I have been burrowing in the loft, and find that they did supply recovery discs with it.

'er indoors is taking it to work, as the IT department are happy to help in exchange for chocolate.

[AlBags]

Good idea ... That might get a bit tricky.
Make sure they don't wipe your docs!