[lbtogo]

After downloading IE7, I received the following error message upon restart: "Windows could not start because the following file is either missing or corrupt: WINDOWSSYSTEM32CONFIGSYSTEM". It then states that I need to reload Windows from the original CD to attempt to repair.

First of all, the OS was preloaded. Secondly, I don't have a recent backup and I don't want to lose my data. I know,I know...back up, back up, back up.

I tried to initiate Windows System Restore (F8), but received the same error message.

I tried to initiate Vaio Restore (F10), but wouldn't that cause me to lose my data?

Is there a utility software that will allow me to perform disk restoration that really works? I've seen Spotmau's latest Suite, but have also read of some negative reviews on actual efficacy of this package. Can anyone recommend other alternatives means, software, or provide first hand review of Spotmau utility?

[alchav21]

Well it sounds like your Windows OS is corrupt, but your Data should be okay. So you can do one of two options, Repair your Windows with a Windows CD or the Restoration Partition you should have on your HDD. The other option is to purchase a new HDD, Format and reload Windows. Then transfer your Data to your new HDD by either connecting your old HDD as Slave or with a USB Enclosure.

[coastie65]

Hi, you can try to go into safe mode and then "Last known good configuration". That might help. Otherwise, you will need a Windows Installation disk and do a repair. coastie65

[lbtogo]

Tried the Windowa restore but got the same error message. When I tried to load the OS disk, to attempt the repair, I also received the same error message. I went into Bios to make sure the drive was in boot sequence to be read, but I received the same error message.

[alchav21]

If you are receiving the same error message no matter what you do you are accessing the HDD, and not the BIOS or CD Drive. You have to give us more details on your computer, you said Vaio is that a Laptop? I looked it up and it's a Sony and it comes both in Laptop and Desktop, so yes we need more information on the Model. The Function Keys that you hit are right after the Splash Screen, if you get the same error message you didn't initiate the correct function.

[coastie65]

Hi, I don't know what you mean By OS disk. If it is the Manufacturer's disk or the Microsoft Widows Installaion disk. In order to do a repair, you need the istallation disk, not the recovery disk that was supplied by the Manufacturer., as those things usually don't give you a repair option. Also, the disk needs to be put in to the drive and the computer restarted for it to work as in most cases it will boot from the CD at startup. With some manufacturers, you can opt to do a non destructive reinstallation which will reinstall the OS without losing your stuff. I think I prefer a repair as a first option though. coastie

[phillypa800]

use your OS installation CD if you have it. boot to CD after restart by selecting the appropriate function key. you may reinstall your OS and also backup your stored files by selecting install OS and backup files. this will require more disk space. let the process run its course. don't worry about installing SP1 & 2. install SP3 only as this SP contains all updates/fixes from both SP1 & 2. if you have the patience and time and you got the OS to work, backup your important stuff, format the HD, then fresh reinstall again without your files.

this will require more work but the outcome will be a fresh reinstall of your OS.

good luck!