BSOD Stop error 0xD1 DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL

[Lunchbox63]

I'm attempting to fix a laptop that won't even load to the logon screen. I keep getting error:

"The application has failed to start because DNSAPI.dll was not found. Reinstalling the application may fix this problem."

I inserted my XP Pro SP2 install disc in order to do a repair install (not via recovery console). I can get all the way up to the point where I choose which installation I want to install. After that, BSOD. I get the stop error:

"DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL

STOP: 0X000000D1

* atapi.sys - Address F8290C3B base at F8290000, DateStamp 40117b4d"

A clean install is not an option (there is some pretty sophisticated software on the machine that I have no idea how to support, so I can't wipe it. I've gotten this three times now, and we all know what the definition of insanity is.

Any ideas would really be appreciated. Please help!!!

 

[linney]

If one of your malware scanners has picked up Atapi.sys as a false positive and take some remedial action concerning the file that might be your problem?

atapi.sys rootkit - can't start computer

http://forums.malwarebytes.org/index.php?showtopic=30371

http://www.google.com.au/search?q=a...&ie=&oe=&redir_esc=&ei=ABSbS9LgJNKHkAWvlZnKAQ

Dnsapi.dll Not Found Error Resolution

http://pcsupport.about.com/od/findbyerrormessage/a/dnsapi-dll-not-found-missing-error.htm

Try the Recovery Console. Have a look at the "Expand" Command if you want to replace Atapi.sys. There might be Registry links missing too, so see what this can do for you.

An easy to follow recovery console description when unable to start computer due to corrupt registry.

http://www.digitalwebcast.com/2002/03_mar/tutorials/cw_boot_toot.htm

This is a layman's version of KB307545 in simple language.