windows\system32\config\system file

My dell desk top deminson 9100 which is windows xp media edition can not start. When I turn it on I get this message file is missing or corrupt. \windows\system32\config\system. Attempt to repair this file by starting windows setup using orginal set up cd-rom. select r at the first screen to start repair. I tried this but it does not load the cd and the same message comes up. what can fix this. When I bought the computer it was already preloaded with software. I did not have a recovery disc. I called dell and they sent my a dvd called operating system reinstallation. Is this disc the same as a recovery disc?

If you use this CD, the computer will be reset to its original state, all your personal data, and personal programs lost.

What kind of CD is it? What does it say on the disk?

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If it's a dell recovery branded CD then usually you wont be able to do a repair install only enter the recovery console.

An OEM branded XP cd will work to do a recovery install but it wont let you activate it again.

It's called operating system already installed on your computer. Reinstallation dvd. microsoft windows xp media center version 2005 with update rollup 2.
If this is not the right dvd what should i use and were should I get it?

It looks like correct disk, but if you have any important data on your computer, you have to back it first, because all will be lost.

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When I put the dvd in nothing happens. What cd should I buy to do the recovery back up.

You have to boot from that CD.
Put CD in, and restart computer.
At some point, you should see the message:
Press any key to boot from CD
Press "any key" to start the process.

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Is your drive a dvd drive? Do you have the drive set as the device to boot into first?

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