When I try to start my Laptop, a Toshiba Satellite M45-S265, it comes up with the following message: Windows couls not start because the following is missing or corrupt: \WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\CONFIG\SYSTEM. The CD-ROM drive also does not work. Therefore, I cannot just insert the reboot disc and fix it. Is there any way to fix this problem without the CD-ROM drive working? It will not start in any mode, normal or safe. The software is (was, if it it's not deleted) Windows XP Home Edition. It is a legal version and it was registered through microsoft. I have had the computer for over three years and now all of the sudden this. I am not too computer savy, but am a really fast learner, so nothing TOO indepth please. Thanks, I really appreciate it!Joe4 people need an answerI do too

I'm sorry but you will need a working optical drive or, if the BIOS allows for booting from USB devices, an external optical drive. If you can't do the work yourself (and there is no shame in admitting this isn't your cup of tea), take the machine to a professional computer repair shop (not your local equivalent of BigComputerStore/GeekSquad).MS-MVP - Elephant Boy Computers - Don't Panic!

Thanks for the advice Malkeleah, how do I check the BIOS to see if it allows for booting from USB devices?

Sorry it has taken me so long to get back to you. I've been working all weekend on a big job. Accessing the BIOS http://michaelstevenstech.com/bios_manufacturer.htm http://www.uktsupport.co.uk/reference/biosp.htm http://www.computerhope.com/issues/ch000235.htm MS-MVP - Elephant Boy Computers - Don't Panic!