Windows could not start because of an error in the software

Issue

Windows could not start because of an error in the software

Cause
The prime reason for this error message to occur is that Hal.dll and Ntoskrnl.exe files mismatch.

Solution
To solve file mismatch issue, you need to follow the below steps:

• Boot the computer using Windows XP installation disc. To do so, first configure your system to start from CD or DVD drive.
• Press any key, when prompted for
• Start Recovery Console by pressing 'R' at 'Welcome to Setup' screen
• Select the Windows installation to be repaired
• Specify the root administrator password, when prompted for
• Run chkdsk, then
• Run bootcfg /rebuild command
• To add Windows installations to the Boot.ini file, you need to follow the on-screen instructions
• Exit the Recovery Console
• Execute fixboot command

If the error persists, reinstall OS and restore from backup or repair if allowed.