Windows is Unable to Boot (Windows XP)

writhziden · Sep 9, 2012

Steps to Fix Problems Preventing Windows XP From Booting

You are probably reading this because you are experiencing one of three scenarios before Windows XP loads:

Windows XP will not boot and all you see is a black screen with a cursor.
When booting into Windows XP, you receive an error message: load needed DLLs for kernel or NTLDR is missing.
Windows XP hangs on the Windows XP color bar loading screen.

All of these are stressful when you need your system working properly. Fortunately, there are tutorials available to resolve them.

The most common problem that prevents Windows XP from booting is a corrupted or missing NTLDR or NTDETECT.COM file.
- Begin by running a Disk Check Through the Windows XP Recovery Console. If corruption was caused by a corrupted file system, this should solve the problem.
- If the disk check does not resolve it, proceed with the troubleshooting steps: Fix the NTLDR is Missing Error.
The second most common problem that prevents Windows XP from booting is a software service. If you recently installed software or you are receiving a message that indicates the service stopping Windows XP from booting, proceed with the troubleshooting steps: Disable Services that Prevent Windows From Booting.
If the above do not resolve the problem, Repair Install Windows XP.
If the repair install fails, it may be due to a permission issue. Your permissions have been changed either by you or by a virus/malicious item. Please see Fix Permissions Changes.

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Windows is Unable to Boot (Windows XP)