[DJ Jay Tee]

So, I installed Vista Beta 2 and it moved my old Windows XP OS to c:\Windows.old\

Now when I boot up, for dual booting purposes, There's two selections: Older Exixting Windows and Windows Vista. When selecting Older Existing Windows, it states its missing some file in system32\ folder can asks to reinstall that file into that directory.

Windows Vista does not have the ability to uninstall itself, from what I've seen in the Add/Remove Programs area.

I can't afford to format my hard-drive as a solution.

The Boot.ini file cannot be edited to direct the computer to starting up my Windows XP from the window.old folder.

Can anyone give me assistance on step by step instructions to getting my Windows XP running again and Vista OFF of my computer?

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The Boot.ini file cannot be edited to direct the computer to starting up my Windows XP from the window.old folder.

I'm not sure if I understand your problem completely, but if you have a Windows XP disk, try using the Recovery Console and type 'fixboot' and 'fixmbr' see if that lets you boot your Windows XP install at least.

[Pнyсo]

The Boot.ini file cannot be edited to direct the computer to starting up my Windows XP from the window.old folder.

I'm not sure if I understand your problem completely, but if you have a Windows XP disk, try using the Recovery Console and type 'fixboot' and 'fixmbr' see if that lets you boot your Windows XP install at least.

[gerryf]

This is why you should not install BETA software, especially BETA operating systems on production machines

Beta 2 does not have a functional upgrade uninstall yet.--the c:\windows.old is the first phase of this feature which is not yet complete. I am actually somewhat surprised that you have an older existing windows option in the boot menu

You say that you cannot afford to format your drive....why? I am asking this because I need to know what you need to save in order to suggest a solution

Be precise...saving programs is likely not an option.

In the meantime, please open c:\windows.old in explorer and describe what is there....or better, a screenshot

Also, do you have a windows xp cd?