User accounts windows xp missing

I have access to the Administrator account still; do I need to run this through safe mode? I usually do it from Safe mode myself -- often from a non-booting system, so that is the first thing I thought of. I've made a few attempts to load to the system restore points that are automatically generated each morning to no effect.

Each time, I get a message that the system restore failed, and that I'll need to choose another date. I'm starting to resign myself to this being the case, but I'd like to at least recover all of the program information start menu, favorites, program settings, etc.

Any suggestions on doing so without reinstalling everything? EDIT: I've discovered something new concerning the problem In an attempt to trick the computer, I created a new account with the same name as the previous we'll call it XXXX again, as before.

I like the sound of this, though I'm not sure exactly what you mean. If by copying the profile, you mean copying the folder in Documents and Settings, I've done that, which has helped a little Other than that, everything in the new account is just as it was before I copied the files over.

It does stand to mention that I was unable to copy the SecuROM folder, as it claimed one of the files "didn't exist. EDIT: I was slightly wrong on that one No change to the Start Menu, desktop, etc.

In the first screen when the Setup begins, read the instructions press "R" in the first screen enter the Recovery Console. After you enter your password and the Windows Recovery Console starts, type exit to restart the computer. User profile is damaged. You may also notice all the user documents, Outlook, Internet Explorer, and. NET settings missing.

The solution recommended in the following Knowledgebase article will resolve the issue: However, the solution recommended in the above article suggests to copy the settings manually. Alternatively, you can follow the below solution: Create a new user account: Go to Control Panel.

Click User Accounts tool. Select the Create A New Account link. Give the account a name and click Next. Click Create Account button. Logoff from the current account, and login with the new account. This will create a user profile for the new account. When the user profile creation procedure is complete log Off from the account without doing any other modifications. Login to the old account again and perform the following: Right-click My Computer, and select Properties.

Select the Advanced tab. Click the Settings button in the User Profiles section. Select the user account that was corrupted. Right click on the? Click on the security tab at the top.

Sally: I have a security warning. Me: That is fine, just click ok. Now do you see the? Sally: Yes Me: Ok click on advanced, and then click on the owner tab. Do you see your Administrator Account in the list of users? The account you are currently logged in with?

Sally: Yes I see it. Me: Ok click that name and also click the check box there that says? Replace owner on sub containers and objects? Then click OK. Sally: I have an error that say? You do not have permission to read the contents of directory? Do you want to replace the directory permissions with permissions granting you Full Control??

What should I do? Me: click yes. This part may take a few moments while the permissions are being changed. Sally: Ok it is done. Me: Alright click ok to close the properties window and now try clicking on the folder.

Sally: Oh.. I can open it there are my kids pictures. Thank you so much. This customer from this point out was unable to be understood because she was crying. She had all of her children? She thought all her files were gone and this was the last ditch effort. If you're asking for technical help, please be sure to include all your system info, including operating system, model number, and any other specifics related to the problem.

Also please exercise your best judgment when posting in the forums--revealing personal information such as your e-mail address, telephone number, and address is not recommended. Please note: Do not post advertisements, offensive material, profanity, or personal attacks. Please remember to be considerate of other members. All submitted content is subject to our Terms Of Use.