The complete error message is:
Stop: c0000218 \{Registry File Failure\} The registry cannot load the hive (file): \SystemRoot\System32\Config\SOFTWARE or its log or alternate.
The error occurs when the computer restarts after copying the installation files to your disk.
This error indicates a damaged hard disk or incompatible hardware.
See the following to determine if your hardware is compatible with Windows XP:
Microsoft Support Policy on Hardware Not On Windows NT HCL.
The Latest Windows XP Hardware Compatibility List.
If your hardware is on the latest Windows XP hardware compatibility list:
1. Start you computer from the Windows XP CD-ROM.
2. When prompted, type R to start the Recovery Console.
3. Type the Administrator password when prompted, or press Enter if it is blank.
4. Type chkdsk /r and press Enter.
5. If the results indicate a fix, try Setup again.
6. You may have to replace a damaged hard disk.
NOTE: See the following Microsoft Knowledge Base articles:
How to Troubleshoot a Stop 0xC0000218 Error.
How to Recover from a Corrupted Registry That Prevents Windows XP from Starting.
