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\windows\system32\config\system file deleted - outdated system file in repair - how to re-create the system file?

I'm running Windows XP SP3 on a Dell D830 Latitude laptop, and have been successfully for years.

 

Suddenly booting reveals the dreaded "c:\windows\system32\config\system file missing or corrupted" error.

 

Ran chkdsk c: /r from the Recovery Console, and chkdsk ended up deleting my c:\windows\system32\config\system file, where bad sectors probably resided.

 

Copied the c:\windows\repair\system file (dated 10-05-2007) to c:\windows\system32\config\system, but now it asks me for a password I have no idea what it is, probably an ancient one I have long forgotten.

 

What can I do to recover my environment?  I have a lot of data that has been modified since my last backup two days ago, and I don't want to lose any of it.  Thoughts?  Have spent a lot of time Googling the past couple of days, but nothing seems to help.

 

Thanks,

Noji Ratzlaff

*** Email address is removed for privacy ***

Answer
Answer
You can find a backup copy of your System registry file in with the System Restore points saved in the 'C:\System Volume Information" folder.  Normally this directory is fairly well protected and hard to get into.

By far the simplest way to restore your registry is to create a Hirens Boot CD
   < http://www.hirensbootcd.org/download/ >
   < http://www.hirensbootcd.org/burning/ >

then boot your machine from this CD.  Select "Mini Windows XP" and when Windows comes up, use the Hirens CD Menu to select:
   Registry Tools -> Registry Restore Wizard
This wizard will find the registry files from the restore points and copy them back into the proper place in your Windows folder (including your c:\windows\system32\config\system file).

HTH,
   JW


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Last updated May 8, 2024 Views 1,609 Applies to: