Windows XP will not start

In safe mode, open the Run command box, and type [u]msconfig[/u]

Click on the 'Startup' tab and turn every option off, click Apply, OK, then you'll be prompted to restart.

Allow the system to boot into normal mode - it should boot up without a problem. You now have a working system without ANY of the startup programs that were causing the lock-up.

It is now a case of turning them on sequentially, one at a time, until you once again experience a boot-time lock-up. When it fails to load you will know which program is causing it.

Depending on how many startup items there are - if you've got lots and lots of them, one trick is to divide the total number by two, then turn on that half. If the system locks-up you know it's in that half, which you then divide by two and run through again, first half then sdecond half. Etc etc.

Of course if you've only got a handful, you won't do any better than turning them on one at a time until you detect the item causing the lock-up.

Happy hunting! :)

How long has this been happening. What have you installed recently, have you updated a driver or installed any software. If it is only recent and it is not a Driver try a System Restore. If it is a Driver roll it back.

Keep us informed as to your progress if you require further assistance.

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Thanks everyone for your suggestions. I did the elimination process on the startup items.
I couldn't roll back my drivers, but did update a few of them. On occasion, Windows will boot okay and sometimes not. I have an image of the factory hard drive configuration that I'm thinking of installing. Luckily, I'm able to do all the extensive backups that will be needed. It is a pain in the derriere. Thanks again, Al.