XP logs on, logs off

[dspikes]

I know that this is not a new thread, however, I still have not found a solution to my problem. I have a laptop (Dell Inspiron 6400) and have the original recovery CD. My issues are as follows:

I cannot log on, even in safe mode, without the computer loading settings, saving settings, and then returning to the log on screen.

I did a 2nd screen repair using the recovery CD, but the result is the same. I also ran the diagnostics CD, which found no problems.

I don't want to lose any of my information. What should I do, now?

[DonRayner]

Do all accounts have this log in problem? Can you log on in Safe mode using the administrator account?

[dspikes]

eThanks for the reply. All accounts in regular mode have the same "logging on, loading setting, saving settings, logging off" problem. When I log into safe mode, the same user accounts show up, with the same log on, log off result. It is a friend's computer, not mine. If it were mine, I'd reinstall windows and suffer the loss of data. My friend really does not want to lose any data, if at all possible. Anyb ideas?

[DonRayner]

If you can get the PC up to a command prompt, check if the file C:\WINDOWS\SYST EM32\USERINIT.E XE exists. If you can't get to a command prompt you will need to use the original XP CD to boot into the recovery console to get a command prompt.

If the file doesn't exist you need to put the XP CD into the CD drive and enter the following from you command prompt. I'm assuming that your CD is D: but if it's something else use that letter instead.

D:
CD I386
EXPAND USERINIT.EX_ C:\WINDOWS\SYST EM32

If the file does exist, then I would suggest that you try to perform a repair install of XP. The repair install won't make any changes to the settings on the system. It should only replace system files that are different from the ones found on the CD. After this you will need to hit the Microsoft update site and reapply all the updates and service packs that have been released since the original CD.

I hope this helps.

And Welcome to Bytes.

[dspikes]

Thanks!

Thanks for the help! It appears to have worked! I've been able to log in, and am setting up an antivirus program. I'll respond again once I'm sure that all is well. Thanks, again!

[dspikes]

Don,

Well, all is finished, and the laptop is working like a charm! I didn't lose any information at all. Thanks, again, for the help! Not only did you help me out, but you made me appear to be very smart!!!

[DonRayner]

Lol, glad I could help fix your problem. BTW, You came to Bytes to get an answer so you were plenty smart to begin with :)

[NeoPa]

Nice work again Don. Quiet, but effective. Great to have you around :)

[DonRayner]

Nice work again Don. Quiet, but effective. Great to have you around :)

Thanks NeoPa! It's great being here helping.