I have a missing or corrupt hal.dll file. I am using the boot disks. I have XP Pro SP2. When I pressed R to repair windows I don't know what to do from there

This article tells how to use the disks to start Recovery Console by pressing R- HOW TO: Install and Use the Recovery Console in Windows XP Description of the Windows XP Recovery Console I give the above information for you to figure out for yourself. I never have used it. As for your last Post, you have no XP CD ?? Watch for help from others.

You say you have SP2. Did your problem start when you installed SP2 ?? This article tells How to remove SP2 using Recovery Console.

I don't have a CD. I am trying to look for one if this doesn't work. And no SP2 came with it. But there is an invalid CD key in the computer, this computer was off Ebay, I got it like 3 years ago, so some guy probably hacked professional, if that's going to cause any problems

I don't have a CD. I am trying to look for one if this doesn't work. And no SP2 came with it. But there is an invalid CD key in the computer, this computer was off Ebay, I got it like 3 years ago, so some guy probably hacked professional, if that's going to cause any problems

boot from the xp disk and tap enter past the first chance to tap R. The first R means Recovery, for the console. At the next prompt tap R, this R means Repair. Let windows delete and re-install it's system files. Once back in normal mode, scan the disk for errors and a scan for malware wont hurt either. Then reboot to test that the system is indeed fixed. gdlk

You need to do a system repair. This will NOT lose any of your data or settings--this will only repair the Windows XP system files. Note that you may need to re-apply some updates and system patches after the repair. How: 1) Boot off the XP CD. 2) At the first screen, press ENTER. 3) Press F8 to accept the license agreement. 4) Press R. 5) Let Setup repair Windows. 6) You're done! Hope this helps! Post back! :) -Andrew