i know this forum is for windows 7 and not xp, but im gonna ask anyways. I have a laptop with xp on it, and when i turn it on, i get an error saying....
\windows\system32\config\system is missing or corupt.
Is there a fix for this, or do i need to reintall windows xp onto it? And if so, do i need to reformat the hdd?
No. the MBR (Master Boot Record) appears to be fine, otherwise you'd be getting a different error message.
The error message you are getting is saying the the SYSTEM hive of the registryis corrupted. The Registry SYSTEM hive happens to store all the information about your hardware, drivers and other system-related info, which is why Windows cannot start without it.
There is lots that can cause such problems. Failing Hard disks, viruses, malware, user error, registry cleaners....
Boot up from your Windows CD and enter the recovery console. When the c:\ shows up, type chkdsk c: /r
Enter
Let it runs for a while and reboot if asked. Check if you can boot up normally this time.
the laptop does not have a disk drive, and i do not have a windows xp disc anyways. Is there a way i can get the windows xp software online and put it on a usb drive and do it from there?
Well, no...
Windows XP has not been available for purchase for some time now. Your best bet would be to make a copy of a friends Windows XP CD and use that.
What do you mean you computer has no disk drive? If you mean no CD/DVD Drive, then you'll need to get ahold of an external Cd/DVD drive that connets via USB.
Failing your acquisition of either a Windows XP CD and/or an Externmal CD Drive (without which we can't help you), you'll have to take your laptop to the nearest computer repair shop and have their technicians look at it.
Quote