Access to Windows XP Impossible!

Good Evening:

Due to a corrupt hal.dll file, and the copying of the incorrect hal.dll
file to the C:\Windows\system32 folder, my computer will no longer boot into
Windows XP Home or into Safe Mode.

No "Boot" disk came with the system, the OS was pre-installed. At first
use of the computer, I created the Restore disks as instructed. I have
attempted to boot via the CD-ROM drive, but it does not seem to be being
accessed [even after going through the BIOS to set it up]. The computer is
reading the system as a dual-boot.

I can get into the Recovery Console, but only to C:\Windows prompt. I
cannot change the directory or use DOS. At the Windows prompt I have 3
options: D:\I386, D:\MiniNT, and C:\Windows. I tried running sfc /scannow
but receive an error message. I assume this is because the file has not been
expanded in DOS. Also in Recovery Console, if I choose the C:\Windows
prompt, it asks for an Admin password [which I cannot remember]. If I put in
my password reset disk and reboot the computer, will it read the password and
allow access?

I have also viewed the directory for Systemroot to find the sfc.dl_ and
sfc.ex_ files and the Recover.ex_ file. Can anyone tell me where to find the
correct hal.dll file, how to get to the DOS prompt to access the "A" drive,
or how to repair/factory-restore my system? I apologize for the long-winded
message.
--
Respectfully

Deidre
.

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