[Saz]

Am using Windows XP and getting this error message. I can get into safe mode but can't get the start menu to run, it's just a blank screen.

Is there a way of getting this file back?

This happened not long after a backdoor trojan was found on my PC. Could they be connected? Have AVG anti virus software but it didn't find it. Was a Spyware program that picked it up and then I quarantined it.

Help!

[Hybr!d]

If you cannot get into windows it makes it difficult to replace files.

If I were you I'd just put the XP CD in the PC and do a windows repair.

It should only take 30 mins and your PC will still be the same way it was before.

If you don't know how to do this let me know.

[Saz]

Ah, haven't got an XP CD.

Have got the missing file on a USB memory stick and booting up in safe mode. When I try to select the drive, it says device not ready.

Any idea what to do next?

[Hybr!d]

Does the USB pen drive work in another machine?

[Saz]

Yes, it does, have just used it in the computer I'm on now.

[Hybr!d]

Hmmm. thats odd, its possible USB is messed up on your other PC also.

I would suggest pressing F8 when powering the PC on and select 'last known configuration that worked' instead of safe mode.

Failing that get a XP CD.

[Saz]

Last known configuration doesn't work either!

Have got an XP SP2 CD, will that do anything?

[Hybr!d]

Nope.

[Saz]

There wasn't a CD with the computer.

Is there a way of restoring it, without losing the data?

[Hybr!d]

What brand is the PC?

Is the restore software built into the computer?

Chances are even if you can access the built in restore feature it will wipe everything.

Best to get a XP CD, most people have one, can't you borrow one?