Window Protection error message

[Cisridn]

I am working on a Compaq Deskpro with Windows 98. Recently the computer stop booting Windows to Normal mode. Whenever the computer is started, it goes straight to Safe mode but it never finishes loading Windows and just reboot.
When I try to force the computer to boot to Normal mode, Windows does the scandisk process. After the scandisk, Windows tries to start up but I get a Windows Protection error message Please restart your computer.
I tried to start windows using step by step mode and received a message that the following file was missing:
C:\Windows\System\VMM32\enable.VXD

I tried to reinstall Windows, but I continue to receive the same message when the computer is restarted.

Does anyone know if there is a way that I can replace this file or will I just have to erase the entire hard drive and install a fresh copy of Windows 98?

Any Help would be appreciated

[Ob1]

i would back up your data and reinstall windows

[Cisridn]

Thanks for the feedback Ob1

Is there a way I can back up the data even though Windows will not boot up?

[glc]

Remove the hard drive, slave it into a working computer or install it in an external housing, and get your data that way.

[Cisridn]

Thanks for the info GLC.
Since yesterday, I have found out that the virus protection on this computer has never been updated.
Know that I think it will be safer is I just re-format the hard drive and install a clean copy of Windows.

[glc]

If there's data you need to get, using an external housing or the slave method is safe if you have a good updated antivirus running on the host machine and you scan the drive before copying any files.

[Cisridn]

Thanks again for the tip GLC.
I purchased a kit yesterday which allows you to set up of one your 5 1/4 drive bays to slide in your hard drive installed in a tray.

I scanned the drive for virus using Mcafee, but none was found. I copied my clients documents to a temp folder and I will do clean install of Win98 tonight.