Invalid Boot.ini file;<Windows root>\system32\hal.dll

Hi! I tried to start my computer one day and got an error messege that said \system32\hal.dll is Missing or Corrupt and needs to be replaced. It finally started after about 100 tries to start it has been left on for a few weeks. a couple days ago after restarting, I got an error messege that said INVALID BOOT.INI file. I had a thread on Newbie.org but moderator Scotty told me to seek help here. I do not have the recovery disks and got an error messege while trying to download the recovery console. Any help is greatly appreciated!

Hi and welcome to the WTT forums

Sorry to hear of the problem with your machine…the fix for this can be simple , but other times may need a repair installation of Windows or a complete format and reinstall..

1 Let's start with the easy stuff..if your machine is still on then take the opportunity to bring your back up/archive/copy of all your important stuff 100% up to date, check that it's accurate, reproducible and held securely on removable media (not your hard drive)……the idea here is to ensure that all your important data, files, spreadsheets, work, music, emails, log in details, user names, address book, drivers, letters, invoices, videos etc….in fact everything that is important to you (stuff that you would not like to permanently lose) is safe on external media. Whilst you are doing this collect together all your application installation discs (or downloaded installation executables) serial numbers, product licence keys (including the one for Windows itself and the Microsoft Windows XP installation disc and or Manufacturer's Restore and Driver /utilities discs.

2 If you can't get into Windows to do step 1 then use another machine to post back here and we will advise alternative steps to help you protect your data/files

3 Once step 1 is completed then have a look here:
http://www.troublefixers.com/how-to-fix-ha…upt-in-windows/
and this will show you detailed instructions on how to proceed.

4 It would be wise to print out each set of the instructions, before you start, so that you can follow the procedures in logical order.
Good luck
Regards
paws

hi, both solutions to the problem on the link you gave me required the windows xp recovery disk, which i dont have.

Hi,

the link you gave me required the windows xp recovery disk, which i dont have.

No, its the Microsoft Windows XP installation Disc you need
If you cant' find it or your delaer did not supply one, then it is OK for these purposes to borrow one and use that (just make sure its the correct version)

One of your chums is sure to have one.
Regards
paws