Once Windows has been started in this way you should be able to go to My
Computer and open the folder that contains the hard drive. Check that the
data files are intact. See if you can launch programs from the drive. If the
machine does not load Windows, the next step is to use an alternate means
to boot the system and then explore the hard drive system tracks. Windows
XP includes a capable System Restore system, which may be solution here
if the system can read the hard drive.Start by trying to boot using the “Last Known Good Configuration.” While the
machine attempts to boot, press the F8 function key. Select the option that
offers the LKGC option I just spelled out. That choice lets you go back in time
to the settings and configurations in use the last time everything seemed well
with the world. If it works, go immediately to the Control Panel and check the
health of devices there and then run a System Check utility. Run a diagnostics
program that checks for the disk’s hardware and software integrity.If you are unable to boot in this manner, your next best step is to try restart-
ing Windows in Safe Mode, one of the other options available from F8. If this
works, go to the Control Panel and look for problems among devices and run
a System Check utility. Run a diagnostics program that checks for the disk’s
hardware and software integrity.If neither of the F8 options delivers you to back up and running safely, the
final step is to reinstall Windows. Do so with a careful hand. If you’ve lived a
good life, helping little old ladies cross the street and volunteering at a home-
less shelter, and are lucky, reinstalling the operating system may solve your
problems and not delete any data files on your disk. The Catch-22 is that
Microsoft says that it does not recommend reinstalling Windows as a solution
to a hard drive that is experiencing mechanical problems. But if you have no
choice, then you have no choice.You may have to go to the system BIOS to enable your computer to boot from
the CD. Here’s how to reinstall Windows XP by starting your computer from
the Windows XP CD:- Restart your computer with the Windows XP disc in the CD-ROM or
DVD-ROM drive.
Watch for an onscreen message that reads, “Press any key to boot from
CD.” You will, I’m sure, realize that you need to press any key.
You will see a screen that offers you the option to setup Windows XP by
pressing the Enter key.- That’s what you want, so press Enter.
- Press F8 to agree to the Windows XP Licensing Agreement.
You’ve got to agree, so don’t fight it.
310 Part VI: The Part of Tens