What does <Windows root>\system32\hal.dll mean?

Question

I recently tried to recover my windows xp and after I did, the message stated when I started my cpu, "Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt:<Windows root>\system32\hal.dll. Please re-install a copy of the above file. Please tell what I should do. Thanks.

Answer 1

http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_haldl...

Answer 2

For answer and how to fix it go to

http://pcsupport.about.com/od/fixtheprob...

Answer 3

Boot from the  windows cd and run chkdsk /r from the recovery console.  If this does not work then your hard drive is faulty.