Replace files in XP OS??

[Smokin Joe]

Is it possible to replace some missing files or folders, without reloading the entire XP OS.
I lost some to a virus. System still works ok but not perfect.

Smoke

 

[spyordie007]

Boot the system off the windows CD and perform a repair install.

NOTE: you'll have to reapply the OS updates since the ones on the system will get replaced with the older ones off the CD.

 

[Epsil0n00]

If you know exactly what files are missing you can replace them from the install CD, or copy them from another system of the same family (ie. don't replace WinXP files with Win98 files)... or mount your primary drive as a secondary drive and copy them over that way. It is possible...

However, if you're not sure what files are missing and you're having lots of strange problems then you might also try running Windows' built-in System File Checker... Go to a run command and type:
sfc /scannow
This process will scan and replace/fix damaged/missing Windows system files. Try and and see if your problem goes away.

If those two options don't work then try the repair install that Spyordie007 suggested...

Eps.

 

[Smokin Joe]

Epsil0n00, the "sfc /scannow" worked but only partial. Still can't update windows and shutoff monitor automatic.

The program kept asking me to put Windows CD in, which I did. I am wondering if I need to open CD drawer and close everytime it asks to put it in and retry??? I didn't open and close each time--just clicked "Retry" a couple of times and it looked like it was working.

Smoke

 

[Smokin Joe]

spyordie007, I will try the method you suggested if the other one doesn't work. The Windows Update doesn't work now. I get "[Error number:0x80072EE2] everytime I try to run it. It has been that way since 1-26-05. That was the last time I could update. Do you have any idea how many up dates, since that date??

Smoke

 

[Epsil0n00]

it is normal that the system file check process will repeatedly prompt you for the CD even when it is already in the drive... just keep hitting 'retry.'