Windows XP: A disk read error occurred. Press CTRL-ALT-DEL to restart

Question

When i start my system it says A disk read error occurred. Press CTRL-ALT-DEL to restart.my operating system is windows xp

Solution 1

Your hard disk is most probably failing. I hope that your important data is all backed up.

Your options are:

1. Take the disk out and connect it to another computer, save your data, reformat, then reinstall Windows.
2. Save your data, replace by a new disk, reinstall Windows.
3. Try to resuscitate the hard disk by using a commercial product such as SpinRite or HDD Regenerator. (May still require reinstalling Windows if the system file in question cannot be repaired.)

Solution 2

Before considering the disk dead, open up the case and ensure all cables are connected properly. Connectors can easily become loose when moving a computer around, it doesn't help that some hardware manufacturers make poor connectors to begin with. Ensure this drive is also set to Master rather than Slave.

If this doesn't yield any results, take precautionary steps like harrymc mentioned to replace your disk.