How Do I Fix Partition Table XP?

The partition table on a Windows XP computer directs the operating system to the stored files on your system. If the partition table corrupts from a virus or bad hard drive sector, your computer cannot boot. Windows XP has a recovery console that lets you type recovery options in a command prompt. You can use the "fixboot" option to fix the partition table.

Instructions

1

Insert the Windows XP installation CD into your computer's drive. Reboot the computer. When the prompt detects the CD, press "Enter" to boot from the CD.

2

Press the "R" key on the first window to choose the "Recovery Console" option. Select "Windows XP" from the list of operating systems and press "Enter."

3

Type the administrator password in the command prompt. This password is required to use the recovery console in Windows XP. After you type the administrator password, a command prompt is shown.

4

Type the following syntax into the command prompt:

fixboot drive:

Replace "drive" with your drive letter. This is typically the "C" drive.

5

Remove the disc from your drive and reboot your computer to boot into Windows XP.