Corrupt system file keeps OEM windows from starting

RoyceSraphim

Okay, this is the first time anything has happened to me and i have know idea how to fix it. I see the blue screen of death with a type of error but now it is too fast for me to see. I see corrupt system file error in \systemroot\system32\config\software and then memory dump. Windows doesn't even start up anymore.

How do i repair a corrupt system file?!?!

Ganluan

Can you start in Safe Mode?

RoyceSraphim

Nope, just gets to the loading windows screen and then BSoD

wakkawa

Boot from your windows cd and run a repair.

RoyceSraphim

Instructions please *hands together and begging*

Cycophant

Instructions? You put the CD in your computer, and restart it. It does get a bit more difficult if your computer isn't set to load up a CD on startup; sometimes you'll specifically have to press a key to get it to load the disc, other times you'll have to change something in the BIOS.

But for most computers it should be fine. Windows Setup will load up automatically, and from there you can choose the option to "Repair" an existing Windows installation. Should fix your problem.

RoyceSraphim

Okay, I hit R to repair the windows instillation and i have the command prompt up and what do I enter to fix it?

I just would like to know how to use the recovery console or if that is too much to ask, will this link work?

Zxerol

No, don't press R at the first screen to go to the Recovery Console. Continue to install as normal and the installer will detect your existing Windows installation. It'll ask you if you want to do a repair, where you can then press R to do a repair install. It will reinstall Windows while keeping your settings intact (although you'll have to reinstall security updates).

RoyceSraphim

So I hit enter at the first screen and get the EuLA, and say yes, now what?

Trentus

Actually, you could try running a 'chkdsk /r' from the recovery console.

RoyceSraphim

Okay, running chkdsk /r didn't do anything except consume power.

RoyceSraphim

Someone please give me detailed instructions on how to repair this file by using the windows cd and please do not leave out No Brainer details for I obviously have no brain!D:

I must restore this computer or my family will have to use my laptop and I will go crazy without having it in my room and playing scarface all night!

RoyceSraphim

Fine, I just reinstalled windows you meanies! Someone tell me how to get all the stuff I deleted back if its possible. It was a fresh computer so nothing was important on there except a few games!

Okay, so i put the disk in and kept pushing forward and what do you know, I reinstalled windows and I guess I lost all the drivers and stuff from the previous install and have to reinstall everything. Is there a way I could find anything from the hard drive or am I totally fucked?