[GCarusone]

I get the following message when booting up.

Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt.

system32\drivers\isapnp.sys

You can attempt to repair this file by starting Windows setup using the original set-up CD-ROM. Select 'r' at the first screen to start repair.

The problem is I don't have an original Windows XP installation CD. The only thing I have is a recovery CD that will erase the contents of the hard drive. Is there any way to fix this problem without the installation CD?

 

[PurpleSky]

If you dont have a recovery partition on your HD you definetely will need the windows cd to access to the recovery console.

 

[quizme1220]

The only work around that I know of would be to "ghost" the installation then you can replace your OS anytime on the same machine of course. Make sure you BackUp your files before doing this.
You could also borrow and copy XP original from a friend using your Product Key which is legal.