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missing or corrupt: <Windows root>\system32\ntoskrnl.exe
Description
The NTLDR loader either cannot locate the critical system file ntoskrnl.exe or it is damaged. Windows cannot begin without this file.
This can be caused by deletion of the ntoskrnl.exe file or file system damage.
Sample Screen
Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt: <Windows root>\system32\ntoskrnl.exe.
Key Facts
Full Title
Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt: <Windows root>\system32\ntoskrnl.exe.
Solution 1 of 3 - Fix Missing or Damaged ntoskrl.exe File
56
You can use Windows Recovery Console to fix a missing or damaged ntoskrnl.exe file. First boot from your Windows boot CD/DVD. We recommend you use a version that matches the OS service pack installed on your system (i.e. if you have Vista SP1, use a Vista SP1 DVD).
For Vista/2008, go to the page Vista Recovery Console . Using the option "Startup Repair" should take care of it.
For XP/2003, go to the page XP Recovery Console . You'll need to go through the command prompt and expand and copy the ntoskrnl.ex_ file from the CD to WindowsSystem32
toskrnl.exe. Instructions are in the XP Recovery Console guide, under Fix a Damaged or Missing File.
Solution 2 of 3 - Restore from Backup or Image
19
If you know the hardware is good and you have a current backup or image of the drive, you could reformat the hard drive and start over. This is often the last resort when all else fails, as you will often lose your latest settings and important data.
If you have a spare drive, it may be worth it to install the drive in place of the first drive and do a fresh install of Windows. This will help confirm if this is a hardware or software issue (unless the original system drive is the source of the problem).
Solution 3 of 3 - Repair File System (XP/2003)
57
You'll use the Recovery Console to check and fix file system
problems. To get to the Recovery Console prompt. insert the XP
installation CD
and reboot the system. Assuming the BIOS defaults to booting from the
media (usually the default) a "Welcome to Setup" screen appears. Press R to load the Recovery Console.
Windows begins by running the NTLDR program, which in turn brings in
other necessary files to bring up the operating system, including ntoskrnl.exe. The ntoskrnl.exe file is critical core component of Window which does not run without it.
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