I was loading an "update" of my DVD software, and the whole thing crashed. Now it won't come back up. Unfortunately, my machine came with Windows XP installed, and of course no disk. So I was wondering, what would happen if I tried to load Windows 2000 using the disk I got with my laptop? I know the programs wouldn't work with the new OS, but what about my files in Vue and Word and Premiere and so on?? If I loaded 2000 and reload all my software, would I be able to bring up the old files? Please help!!!!

Even if your computer came pre-loaded, didn't you get a disk that helps you recover from this? Also, were you able to do a restore from safe mode menu? Sharen

No and no. The disk I got is the kind that would restore back to factory condition, which would wipe my files. The computer guy next door was able to get it to the dos window, but that was it. Even when you try to bring it up in safe mode, it crashes as soon as the desktop comes up. Thats why I was thinking about a new os, and wondering if loading 2000 would at least give me access to my files.

Hmmmm, I don't think so. You will be refromating your HD which will wipe them out anyway. If you try doing a recovery from the 2000, it might work, but all depends on your bios, etc. Guess there is nothing to loose though at this point, you can't get your files this way. Sharen

If you can get to the DOS level of your windows XP system, try looking into the C:WindowsSystem32config folder. This is where your registry is. Once there, copy your SYSTEM and SOFTWARE files (current registry files that are likely corrupted at this point) and overwrite them with the SYSTEM.sav and SOFTWARE.sav files that should be there. These files are automatic backups that windows makes when updating the registry. This trick saved me last summer when my system went down.

Hey that is great advice. Sharen

Wait! Wait!
Another easier way with no risks -

Grab another drive, old new or whatever.

Remove the old drive and put the new one in and load up w2k.

After installing the os, put the old drive back in as a "slave" drive - w2k should recognize the drive on boot. Then copy all necessary files and reformat the old drive or whatever.

You just need to know your jumper settings on the old drive and set them to slave on the same channel as the new one. Piece o' cake
Bot

It's back (release the doves!!). I wanted to thank everybody for the advice. It turned out to be some kind of weird glitch in the Roxio DVD burning software, which I would strongly advise anyone against ever using! I'm going to buy another. I've heard about Nero and this other one called Pinnacle. We'll see. Thanks again.