I think I have a computer virus. My computer was working alright on Sunday. I did, however, lose the Norton security update (Norton wouldn’t fire up). So, I was instructed by the Norton support tech to un-install it and then re-install it because it might be corrupt. I never got that far because it would not un-install. The tech took over my computer remotely and tried to un-install the Norton software, but he was unsuccessful. I ran out of time and asked the tech to try later. He agreed, so I closed out and shut down properly. I went to try it again on Monday and the computer wouldn’t boot. I got a message that said:

Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt.
<Windows root> \system\hal.dll
Please re-install a copy of the above file.

I put in the Microsoft windows operating system disc in, but it wouldn’t run when I pressed F1 or F2 or any key. How do I re-install the operating system and will I loose my files and folders?
Mike

First lesson: get rid of Norton!

Next: what is the make and model of the computer?

Have you checked the BIOS Setup to ensure that the CD drive is set to boot prior to the hard drive?

A Repair Install off of a Microsoft XP CD should retain your data and programs.

If this is an OEM computer with an XP Recovery CD the procedure might be different.

There is an outside chance that if you try to boot into Safe Mode options (press the F8 key between the BIOS POST and Windows starting) you can try either "Last known good configuration" or "Safe Mode: System Restore".

Originally Posted by jephree

First lesson: get rid of Norton!

Absolutely!!! Couldn't agree with you more, jephree.