Missing dll

My system has decided to deny access to some of my folders. This just started about a week ago. I have gone online and got info on how to fix this. It looks like I need to reboot into safe mode first. My system won't start in safe mode and I get an error msg about missing or corrupt file "\system32\hal.dll". What is the best way to restore or repair this file?. My system runs fine in regular mode but will not reboot into safe mode. Looks like I'm lucky that it will start at all. I guess I can ask how to fix the folder problem in a different thread later. Thanks in advance for anyone's help

Hi cajunpop

Here's the official MS solution for your specific problem.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/314477

Scroll a bit down, and you will see your error, and the solution(s).

If in doubt about anything, post ahead

Regards