2 Installations on same drive

[TappanZee]

I couldn't start WinXP due to a corrupted .dll file. I decided to re-install XP, but to a different folder that I named WinExtra since I didn't want to delete all my original files, settings, etc. (I kept the original Windows folder.) The pc booted properly with the new installation, and I was able to overwrite the corrupted file in the original Windows folder. Now I want the pc to boot up using the original WinXP installation. Is there any way that I can get the computer to boot from the original installed Windows folder? I did all this because I couldn't access the Recovery Console because it wouldn't allow me to log on - I never created an admin password.

[Markoman01027]

Welcome to PC Mech forums TappanZee!

Boot up into XP setup and run a "Repair" installation. That should do it.

[TappanZee]

I tried already, but setup wouldn't let me go into Repair without entering my administrator's password. I'm supposed to be able to press the "Enter" key, since it's blank by default, but it doesn't work.

[pointd]

Press the Windows and Pause/Break keys together. This should bring up the System Properties box. Click the Advanced tab and then the Startup and Recovery button.

Click the dropdown arrow for Default Operating System. If both installations are listed here then choose which you want to be the default and then choose how long you want the list to be displayed for.Ok everything once you have set the options and restart.

If only one installation is listed you will have to edit the boot.ini file manually. Post back if necessary.

As you are not sure if your original installation works then make sure the list of Operating Systems is displayed for at least 10 seconds that way if your original installation doesn't work you can get into your second to carry on with repairs.