BleepingComputer.com: Error Message System32\drivers\ntfs.sys Corrupt or Missing After Scanning with Windows Security Essentials

That's all of it.

Right, we'll see if it can offer a solution. You need to boot into xPud, navigate to the flashdrive folder and open a Terminal, all as before.
This time you need to run bash rst.sh -r and when prompted for a number, enter 251
Once complete, shut down the PC, withdraw the flashdrive and see if you can get the PC to boot.

Also, did you successfully boot into the Recovery Console when you tried - this will be our next port of call if the above doesn't work.

Still not booting. Stuck on

"Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt: System32\Drivers\Ntfs.sys"

"You can attempt to repair this file by starting Windows Setup..."

Yes, I was able to boot to the Recovery Console.

This post has been edited by tjpitts10: 24 April 2011 - 06:09 PM

Good evening.

From what I can ascertain, there are a number of possibilities with this particular error message and not all involve the file ntfs.sys.

1) It's possible that your PC has a faulty memory module and this is causing Windows to fail to load. Do you know how much memory the PC has and whether it has more than one RAM chip in it?

2) It's also possible that the hard drive has some faulty sectors and that is the cause of the problem. The instructions below will try to solve this particular problem - if it's the problem obviously.

3) Finally, there's always the possibility that the file ntfs.sys is actually corrupt. I don't think this is the case, but we'll look at replacing it if the following fails...

Boot the PC using the XP disc that you have and when the text-based part of Setup begins, follow the prompts. Select the repair or recover option by pressing R.
If you have a dual-boot or multiboot system, select the installation that you want to access from the Recovery Console.
When you are prompted, type the Administrator password. If you haven't set up an Admin password, leave it blank.
At the command prompt, enter: chkdsk /r (note the space between chkdsk and /r) and allow it to complete undisturbed.
Remove the CD/DVD then reboot and cross your fingers.

Well, chkdsk did say it found and fixed one or more errors but... no go with the booting.

Now what?

Quote

According to the system information it has 1017528 KB. Is there a way I can find out without taking the computer apart?

Good evening.,


I don't know of any way apart from with a screwdriver when you can't get Windows to boot. Can you see a Microsoft sticker on the PC that has the Windows Product Key on it?

There are 2 512MB memory chips. The sticker says Windows XP Professional.

Assuming the sticker has the Product Key on it, which you probably won't need but it never hurts to have it, I suggest you try a Repair Install: http://camtech2000.net/Pages/XP_Repair.htm

This will leave all your personal files intact but hopefully will repair your Operating System.

The Windows CD I have is Home Edition. The Windows sticker on the computer says Professional. Does that matter??

I'd say that it did, so that's the end of that idea. Is there any chance of getting hold of the right installation disc from someone?

Probably not unless we can find one at a computer repair shop.

I am finding some on Ebay. Does it also matter if it's a SP2 or SP3?

This post has been edited by tjpitts10: 27 April 2011 - 07:29 PM

Good evening.

When I replied to your original post I was of the opinion that I could resolve the issue with relatively little fuss, and I was wrong - sorry. A repair install may resolve your problem and a full install will, but there may be other options that require no cash expenditure on your part and I think it would be wise to explore those first.
The best place I can suggest to find better answers than mine is in this part of Bleeping Computer where the Techs hang out. Start a fresh thread and link to this one so that all the steps that have already been taken won't be duplicated and any pertinent information can be easily accessed.