Corrupt system file...can't load from HD or CD

i have exactly the same problem and i cant figure it out

i only bought windows xp just to network my braod band,
cos 98 was crap, but now every so often i get the exact
same problem and i have to completely restore my system

its friging bugging

can anyone help



-----Original Message-----
I posted this on the general group but figured I'd try
here and see if I get any other advice too...

I have Win XP Pro. When I turn on my pc, it starts to
load
and then I get this error:

"Windows could not start because the following file is
missing or corrupt:
\windows\system32\config\system

You can attempt to repair this file by starting windows
setup using the original setup cd-rom. Select 'r' at the
first screen to start repair."

If I just put in the Win XP cd, the message still comes
up. I don't get any change to boot from cd or to repair
or
reinstall windows. I made a set of Win XP Pro exmergency
boot disks on another computer. I used them and I do get
an option to install or repair windows.

When I typed in r to get into repair mode this comes up:

C:\WINDOWS: Then I type in help and it gives me a list
of
all the comands. Which one do I need to use to repair
this
file?

I also tried to change the bios setting so the CD will
boot before the HD. When I did this, it started to boot
from the CD, but then the same message came up.

I don't know if I am doing somthing wrong or if I should
try somthing else. I have important files and would
really
like to keep all my setting the same.

What should I do?
Thanks
.