Re: XP Pro Setup Hangs - just want my data.

Tech-Archive recommends: Repair Windows Errors & Optimize Windows Performance

From: Pegasus \(MVP\) (I.can_at_fly.com)
Date: 10/23/04 

Date: Sat, 23 Oct 2004 11:42:50 +1000

"Rich K" <Rich K@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:03D0CA31-6289-4850-A62B-E1BA2F511E9F@microsoft.com...
> I needed to do a reinstall of XP Pro because of corrupt Windows files on a
> Compaq 2800T Laptop.
>
> All I want is to get to the point where I can get my data off (by CD or
> Network).
>
> I get to the point where I have the network drivers installed - and it
says
> "Setup will complete in approximately 22 mins (Installing Start Menu items
is
> the section).
>
> The disk is active every so many seconds. The CD is not active.
>
> It continues this way indefinitelty.
>
> I tried to reboot in safe mode - but the setup didnt make it far enough.
>
> Any help appreciated.
>
> Thanks,

There are several ways to get at your data:

a) Get it from backup. The golden rule of computing says that all important
    files must be backed up to an independent medium every week. The
    iron rule says that you never fiddle with the operating system unless
    you have a full back up. If you decided to break both rules, read on.

b) Install the disk temporarily as a slave disk in some other WinXP PC,
    then back up your files; or

c) Create a Bart PE boot CD (www.bootdisk.com), boot the machine
    with this CD, then back up your files to an independent medium (network
    or second hard disk); or

d) Create a DOS network boot diskette (www.bootdisk.com) and back
   up your files to a networked machine. You will get short file names
   only.

Option a) is by far the easiest option. Option b) works fine if you have
access to another WinXP/2000 PC. Option c) relies on a tool that is
indispensable for a system administrator. Option d) is painful.

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