Windows XP won't start up.

Gloom

We are using Windows XP and eMachines 3230(I think). Here's the problem.

Hello,
I need help starting up my computer it turns on and then comes up a page saying:

"We apologize for the inconvenience but windows did not start successfully. A recent hardware or software change might have caused this.
If your computer stopped responding, restarted unexpectedly, or was automatically shut down to protect your files and folders, choose Last Known Good Configuration to revert to the most recent settings that worked.
If a previous startup attempt was interupted due to a power failure or because the power or reset button was pressed, or you aren't sure what caused the problem, choose Windows Start Normally.

Safe Mode
Safe Mode With Networking
Safe Mode With Command Prompt

Last Known Good Configuration (your most recent settings that worked)

Start Windows Normally
"

No matter which one I press, I still get the same thing. The computer goes to load, then just returns that screen again.
Solutions? Cheers.

paulusdu

Have you added any hardware since the last time you started up Windows?

its usually the message you get when windows is unable to load its registry due to one of many many issues.

One way is to boot up from the original Windows XP disc and run a recovery. This will repair (if possible) the Operating System to a certain point. you may need to customize it again and re-install certain applications.

or

You may need to reinstall the operating system assuming that the Hard drive is ok. This could be due to anything from software or drivers causing a conflict to viruses or even the windows registry becoming corrupt.

or

the hard drive may be on the way out.

Gloom

We didn't install anything. I came home Saturday night around 2/3am and was on MSN.

Sunday morning I try to use it and this happens.

I'll try the original Windows XP disc.

Just curious, is it possible to buy these discs somewhere in case we are after losing it?

paulusdu

You can pick up the original discs again (at a price) but maybe get onto who ever supplied you with the machine, they might be able to issue you with a replacement at reduced price or even free (depending how nice they are)

Antar Bolaeisk

Before re-installing you could just try repairing the XP install using the os disk. Unfortunately you need a disk with the same service pack as the os. Details here

Another option would be to remove all non-essential hardware and try booting with just the bare minimum such as hard-drive, 1 stick of ram, graphics card. Of course, if you aren't even able to get into safe mode then this probably won't have any effect.

In_tuition

Try a system restore by tapping F10 on start up, this will take you to the recovery partition and give you the option to restore your laptop/pc to an earlier time.

Gloom

Thanks for the help guys, I'm sure I have the Windows Start Up CD.. it's just lost in the mess of my room at home.

I'm in college at the moment and won't be home until Friday so I'll let you know then how it all works out.

In_tuition

If this fails and you have a XP Disc with the operating system on it, tap F12 on start up and selected the boot cd/dvd option. If you don't have a disc and you do not have anything on your laptop important, tap F10 on start and restore the C drive to it's factory condition :cool:

5uspect

The license key should be written on the PC on a blue and green sticker.
If you're running XP Home just borrow an XP Home disk from a friend and use theirs.

In the mean time get your hands on a Knoppix CD (burn an image from here) and boot it. This will load up a Linux desktop where you hopefully will be able to back up your files. Buy/borrow an external harddrive to store them on. Don't worry it's just a point and click desktop nothing difficult.

EDIT: if you're in College you should have access to the College's software library that may include your version of XP. (Although its probably only XP Pro).