Invalid boot.ini file

I am absolutely at my wits end here. Computer crashes, constant disk checks, countless error msgs, discovered my XP PRo is not authentic, can't update to SP2, boot.ini file is completely missing from system config utility..can not restore system to a point I know it was running perfect and to top it all off, I am in China where I purchased this system about 2 years ago. I followed chaslang's "read & run me first" instructions to the "T" in order to clean my system of adware, malware and hijackers and am at a loss. Still a major problem..Here's the stats on my system:

Xp Pro 2002
Intel Celeron CPU
2.60 Ghz
504MB of ram

I think I need to reinstall XP OS system and be done with it..what's your suggestion and forgive me if I left out any information you might need to make a judgement call here. While I am able to remain online and booted I am trying to get this to you as quickly as possible.

 

Depends on what you want to do with it.

To fix the boot.ini file, boot with the xp cd inserted & make your way to the recovery consol not the repair section.

From there type fixboot (enter).

 

>> ...discovered my XP PRo is not authentic. Kai6854 <<

That single part of your post (above) is likely the source of all of these problems.

>> I think I need to reinstall XP OS system and be done with it..what's your suggestion <<

Yes by all means, do so ASAP. However do not use any "non-authentic" Windows XP Pro Disk to reinstall.

Good Luck!

 

I don't have an XP cd so that's where I'm stuck for now...also I didn't know my XP was not authentic but should have realized that fact since I am in China, the piracy capitol of the world...since I posted, I went back into sys config utility and lo and behold the "boot.ini" tab had reappeared however all sections are blank and an error msg keeps coming up saying the utility can not continue, blah, blah...so as not to waste anymore of your time: I realize that getting an authentic XP install will require some exploration on my part. Meanwhile I won't boot up too often and get all frustrated...thanks for the advice

 

>> I realize that getting an authentic XP install will require some exploration on my part. Meanwhile I won't boot up too often and get all frustrated...thanks for the advice. Kai6854 <<

This may be a "Ray of Hope" for users who find themselves in your situation:

Users who have pirated copies on their computers may even be able to obtain a free copy of Windows XP (under certain conditions) according to this New York Times article:

"If you unwittingly purchased a pirated edition of Windows and can prove it, you may qualify for a free replacement copy of the system. (You need to fill out a counterfeit report, provide a proof-of-purchase statement or receipt and send your bootlegged Windows discs back to Microsoft.)"​

Note: I know all this probably sounds like a big 'hassle' but you never know; it might just save you the price of a brand new Win XP Pro Install disk! I have no idea whether or not this method works or will help you out here; but best of luck in any case!

Good Luck

 

That would be great if not for the fact that the OS was installed by the customer service techs after a system crash over 2 years ago. Again, I am in China which means what was done to my computer by the techs was out of my control at the time and there is no paperwork or CD in my possession. I am essentially at a dead end and must find an authentic reinstall disc. Thanks anyway!