The short scoop...
Been battling some virus infections and in the process of identifying affected files I think I inadvertently changed the 'userinit' filename. Afterwards, the next reboot got me to the XP logon screen but when I try to logon one of the various users, it logs right back out. The same thing occurs in safe mode. I have gone to system setup and bootlist to change boot sequence to the dvd/cd-rom, however, the OS reinstall dvd will not boot. I tried the diagnostic cd and it loads fine. Is it because its a dvd? I want to do a system repair to save all my data (lots of data!) Would a DOS bootdisk help? I don't have a floppy so can the bootdisk run off of a USB drive? Could I copy the reinstall dvd to a usb drive and try to boot off of it?
Any help/suggestions would be greatly appeciated.

Robert

If you want to try to do a repair you will need a Windows XP cd - not a reinstallation DVD. Most reinstall dics will wipe the data completely and put the computer back to factory. Only a couple manufacturers put the repair option on the reinstall disc. What model is the computer, also is it a PC or Laptop?

If you can borrow windows xp cd from a friend (make sure it's the correct version Home or Pro) you should be able to use that to repair windows.

Failing that your other option is to remove the hard drive and put in another pc as a slave to copy your data off.

Diire,
The machine is a Dell Dimension E510 desktop. I considered using the CD that came with my daughters laptop but wasn't clear whether or not I would have to supply the OEM product key and cause a conflict with the Windows installlation on the PC. Does a OS repair ask for the product key? I had thought about taking the HDD out and putting it in a machine at work, going to the file and correcting it but that would be 2 weeks away (sigh) due to vacation... but what the heck, give me a chance to get away from the problem for awhile.
How involved is the OS repair?
TIA,
Robert

Hello,if the XP CD came supplied with a new computer then it is OEM it will take any key.So you can use your origonal key with this disk.As long as it is the same operating system as yours.Pro=Pro,Home=Home.

A repair is just a system to repair a few broken files or to replace a few missing ones.It is simple and easier that a recovery.

Good morning, Jelly Bean
Thanks for the quick response. I forgot to mention that the PC has XP Media Center and the CD for the laptop is XP Home Edition. Would this work or cause a conflict?
TIA,
Robert

Nope sorry media canter and XP home do not mix.You cannot use this disk to repair your computer.Sorry.

You could do as DIIRE sugested and fit the hard drive as a slave to another computer and remove any important files.

Do you know if recovery console is installed on your computer?

Do you know a friend who may have OEM media center install disk?