What does this mean?

When I start my computer I get an error message and it will no longer let me get online.
The message says:
AOL.EXE - Bad Image
The application dll c:\WINNT\System32\ATL.DLL is not a valid Windows image. Please check this against your installation diskette.

Not being able to get online, I can't download HJT or send you a scan.
What do I do?

 

sounds like its just a corrupted file. try reinstalling the aol software.

 

I can't get into system restore. That same error message is blocking me from getting into the system information and system restore utilities

 

try replaceing the ATL.DLL. you can download it here http://www.dll-files.com/dllindex/dll-files.shtml?atl after you download it unzip it and copy the dll in the unicode folder and paste it in c:\winnt\system32. if it asks you to replace existing file click yes.

lol tim you put your while i was typing this.

 

Okay, what is a unicode folder?

 

As previously mentioned, try to re-install AOL from the CD. They're usually available for free at supermarkets, post offices, 7-11's, etc...

 

This is even more involved that I thought. That error message comes up when I try to access any of the system tools as well. I cannot get to system restore, cannot open the security center (security center is currently unavailable becasue the security center service has not started or was stopped)
If I run services.msc i get error --snap-in failed to initialize
System tools does not even show a backup option
Control panel doesn't show User accounts
Run mmc shows a blank page
I cannot get online
I installed a lynksys wireless adapter to try the internet that way. Although it shows up in Device manager, I cannot access it
Here is a HJT log:

 

Why the HJT log ?

Check for corrupted files...

Goto Start --> Run and type in sfc /scannow and hit enter

Have your windows CD handy!

 

after 4 attempts I finally got sfc /scannow to run
It completed and gave no error messages nor asked for the windows cd

 

Try a safe reinstall of XP 'over the top' of itself. 95% of the time all your programs will be there and everything will work as normal. Boot to the CD, do not choose 'R' at the first choice. At the next time setup asks what you want to do, choose 'Repair the current Windows installation' (it might be worded differently, but I think I'm pretty close). This will replace system files with clean versions and should straighten everything out .....
GOOD LUCK

hopperdave2000