Windows xp cd?

When i turn my computer on it says,Windows could not start because the following file is misssing or corrupt:%26lt;windows root%26gt;\system32\hal.dll. please re-install a copy of the file above.

I was told i could fix the problem by using the windows xp cd.I have lost mine and do not know where i can get another one. Can anyone tell me where i can download a free copy of the cd and how to burn to a cd correctly so i can repair my computer

Windows xp cd?network

To combat piracy, XP CDs have to match their product keys. For example, Dell-branded computers have their own set of product keys that will work with XP CDs that were shipped with Dell computers. If you have a product key that came with a Dell computer and install the retail version of XP, the product key won't work.

This is true for all major computer manufacturers and people who buy CDs through volume licensing (mostly companies).

The various versions of XP also have different product keys that will work. For example, the key from the retail version of XP Home will not work with an XP Professional CD, etc.

However, if you do have a Dell computer and have XP Home, and you know someone who has XP Home and a Dell computer, then you will be able to use their CD with your product key. Likewise if you bought a retail version and you know someone who has the same retail version.

If you don't have someone that you can borrow the exact same version of XP from, then you will need to contact the person who sold you the computer. They should be able to provide another CD for you. If you bought a retail version of XP, Microsoft does have a replacement program. I don't believe it is free but it should only cost you about $25.