"Windows/System32/Config/System file missing or corrupt"

"Windows/System32/Config/System file missing or corrupt"

Postby quinton » Mon Feb 23, 2009 10:46 am

Problem:
"Windows/System32/Config/System file missing or corrupt" error message

Please follow this Microsoft suggestion as it works.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/307545
There are 2 options to try:

Option 1
boot into the Recovery Console and replace the missing or damaged system file with a backup copy. To do this, you will need an original Windows XP CD, or a recovery CD from your computer's manufacturer.

Once you have booted from your Windows XP CD or floppy disks, press the letter "R" at the first screen asking you for input. The computer will now ask you "Which Windows installation would you like to log onto." Each profile is represented with a number. Press the number associated with your profile (usually the number 1) and press enter. Now you will be prompted to 'Type in the Administrator Password." Enter your password and press enter (if you do not have a password to log into Windows, simply press enter).

*note* If you are not prompted to enter a number for your Windows profile, type the following command: "cd windows". If the computer tells you "access denied" scenario one does not apply to you, and you need to progress to option 2 for further information and instructions.

After you enter your password (or simply press enter) you should be at a prompt that reads "C:/windows". Type the commands below to navigate to your Windows/System32/Config directory and replace the appropriate file:

    cd system32
    cd config
    ren system system.old
    cd .. (note the space after cd it is important)
    cd .. (note the space after cd it is important)
    cd repair
    cd copy system c:\windows\system32\config

You should now see a message stating that the file was copied successfully. Reboot your computer and all should be well. If you do not get this message, or you can not navigate to the windows/system32/config folder, proceed to option 2.


Option 2
If you were not able to log into your Windows profile in the recovery console, or if you were not able to navigate to the windows/system32/config directory, this likely means that the directory is gone. We have seen multiple reports of this occurring, and there is no discernible pattern that would indicate what is causing this problem at this time. This directory contains information required by Windows to boot, as well as information about your installed programs and saved passwords. If you currently are receiving the error "Windows/System32/Config/System file missing or corrupt," there is nothing you can do to remedy this problem.

If you have important data on your hard drive, your information is still there and intact. We would strongly suggest that you seek the advice and experience of a local computer repair shop to copy this data to CD or DVD for you before you reinstall Windows. Reinstalling Windows will result in the loss of any data that exists on your drive.
quinton
Site Admin
 
Posts: 5
Joined: Tue Jan 31, 2006 11:54 am

Return to WIndows XP Issues

Who is online

Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 1 guest

cron