missing root 32 hal.dll error torment!

Hi,
I have looked in other forums and followed the advice but I am getting nowhere. My problems started by turning off system restore and working in safe mode using the spyware removal programs such as spybot and cc cleaner etc to get rid of a virus but after doing so and trying to reboot I cant get back in to normal mode. When I try to log into my system [Win XP Home] I get the following message "Windows cannot start because of the following file is either missing or corrupt:
<windows root>
\system 32\hal.dll

I have used F8 and when I go into any of the options available: Safe Mode, Recover etc. It brings me back to the same error page...I tried installing the xp home disk (a copy not an original-it doesnt bring up any prompts, which you would expect?) and nothing happens...

Anybody have any thoughts on how to sort this?

Thanks.

 

This is a Boot.ini issue, a few of questions.

1. What is your Operating System?
2. Do you have a dual boot system?
3. Does your system have a hidden recovery partion?