XP will not load due to error

I tried installing software for my camera and when I was asked to re-start the PC, I did. However, when I did, it teold me the following:

"Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt
\windows\system32\config\system

This is so frustrating. Please help.

 

have you tried the last known good configuration in the F8 menu

 

yes did and no luck

 

Put your Windows Bootable CD into the disk drive, but do not close it. Open up BIOS. Not all BIOS menus are the same, but they are very similar.
Go to boot
Go to Boot Order, Boot Priority, Startup Order, or something similar.
Make sure CDROM comes BEFORE HARD DRIVE
Go to exit and make sure you save. Then, close the CD tray and reboot.
It will load the Bootable CD

When you get to the blue screen that says Welcome to Setup, Press R.​

When you get to the black screen, select your Windows installation that you want to use, and then type the password for the user “Administrator”. This you can almost always leave blank.
Type in FIXBOOT
Type in Y
After that is done,
Type in FIXMBR
Type in Y
This should have fixed it.

 

thank you
I tried that method but with no luck.
I could make another folder with Windows XP PRO as a second boot option. Now I have 2 options and can get into C from the new windows install. Obviously none of my programs will work with the shortcut because it is not imported properly.
I am now trying to copy the config files from the working windows folder to the corrupt one. Is there a way?

 

If they are on the same partition, I would just copy over the old files to the new install. Then use the "Remove Choice of OS Guide"

 

wondering if I install a copy over the corrupt version, will it erase my data files. It says I can but also stand the risk of erasing the MY DOCUMENT FOLDER. However there is an option to do an install over the corrupt version and keeping the files intact.

 

DON'T INSTALL INTO THE SAME FOLDER!!!
Install it to C:\winxp
It just warns you about it. as long as you don't format or partiton you will be ok.

 

I'm back!!!!!!! XP will not load

OMG!! I am back! Now it is my husbands other computer :banghead
I have not been able to get to safe mode at all. When I select it it does nothing but try to reboot, then I get back to the error screen where it has the selections: safe mode, etc. it took me forever to get to the bios screen so I could follow these directions listed below but when I get to the black screen it takes me directly to a C: prompt. I am a little hesistant to type in fixboot in case there is something in between that I am missing. I know that I will get the help I need I am going to stay at the C: prompt and await for some help!! Thank you in advance!! KathyM