How to Fix the NTFS.sys Blue Screen
The Windows Stop Error "Missing or Corrupt NTFS.sys" indicates that the system driver for your computer's file system is damaged. This can occur when you try to convert a FAT32 file system to the NTFS format or if a disk defragmentation process fails to complete. It can also be a symptom of hard disk failure.
If the NTFS.sys error is not a result of drive failure, there are several possible ways to resolve the issue, including replacing the file, running the "Check Disk" utility or reinstalling the operating system.
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Instructions
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Replace NTFS.sys
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Insert your Windows XP disk and restart the computer. If prompted, press "Enter" (or any other key) to boot from CD.
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Type "R" to enter the Recovery Console.
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Type "1" and press "Enter" to select the C:\Windows partition for repair.
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Type "cd \windows\system32\drivers" and press "Enter" to navigate to the folder containing NTFS.sys.
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Type "ren ntfs.sys ntfs.old" and press "Enter" to rename the existing copy of NTFS.sys. This will allow you to create a new copy of the file.
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Type "copy d:\i386\ntfs.sys c:\windows\system32\drivers" and press "Enter" to copy a working version of NTFS.sys to your Windows system folder.
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Type "quit" to exit the recovery console.
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Restart the computer.
Run Microsoft's CHKDSK Utility
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Insert your Windows installation disk and restart the computer. If prompted, press "Enter" (or any other key) to boot from CD.
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Type "R" to enter the Recovery Console.
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Type "1" and press "Enter" to select the C:\Windows partition for repair.
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Type "chkdsk /r" and press "Enter." Type "Y" if prompted to unmount the volume.
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Type "exit" when CHKDSK has completed and restart the computer.
Perform a Repair Install
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Insert the Windows XP installation CD and restart the computer. Press "Enter" (or any other key) if prompted to boot from CD.
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Press "Enter" to install Windows.
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Select your Windows installation (usually C:\Windows) and press "R" to begin a repair install. A repair installation replaces your Windows system folder with a fresh copy, but it leaves your accounts and files intact.
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Tips & Warnings
Both CHKDSK and the Windows repair installation can take several hours to complete, so it's best to start the process and check back later.
Although a repair installation of Windows allows you to keep your accounts and files, you may still need to reinstall some of your third-party programs. It's a good idea to keep your software installation disks nearby.
With any file system or operating system repairs, there is always a risk of data loss. Always keep a backup copy of your important files in case something happens to your computer.
The instructions listed in this article may not resolve your start-up error. If the computer still won't start, you may need to contact a computer support professional for further assistance.
References
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