XP install REALLY fvcked up...tries to load, but never finishes.

[EvilYoda]

So last week or so, I had some problem where the config\system file was missing/corrupted, so then I went into the repair console from the install CD and manually restored the system to a previous date. Now when I get into Repair, it's slow as hell and it says that "access is denied" to all folders, even though I typed in the admin password. Is there any way around this? Norton's boot CD scanned the boot sectors, no problem.

If I try to install Windows over the current install, will I lose all my programs?

I can try to load Windows normally and it'll go into the scrolling blue bars, but never finishes. Safe mode worked a few times and now I can't get that working either!

HELP!

 

[ScrapSilicon]

think you've encountered this

 

[johnjkr1]

If you try to install XP on top of itself, you "should" not lose your data, but the chances of solving your problem are about zero. Run the diagnostic on the drive from the drive maker, if it passes, your best best is to format and reinstall.

 

[EvilYoda]

Originally posted by: ScrapSilicon
think you've encountered this

Thanks, but that's not it, as I don't encrypt my files...I can't even access FOLDERS, like general ones, let alone the config or system folders.

I'd REALLY REALLY REALLY rather not have to reformat and reinstall since I have a lot of data to move around in order to back it up...agh.

What an evening.

 

[johnjkr1]

You may need to take ownership of certain folders to access them again

 

[EvilYoda]

Originally posted by: johnjkr1
You may need to take ownership of certain folders to access them again

And how would I go about doing that via the Repair Console?

 

[johnjkr1]

You can't do it from the repair console as far as I know. You will have to try safe mode again or hook the hard drive up to another pc. Did you try a repair installation? (not from the recovery console, not a dirty install)