Windows XP Pro Start-up error

At start-up a message comes up starting : "We apologize for the inconvenience, but Windows did not start successfully ... " It gives me an option to go into Safe Mode and other options.
I've tried BIOS adjustments to fan, but to no avail. Please has someone had the same problem?

 

press start windows normaly

 

do you have the recovery console installed, or on a cd?

you should run fixboot and fixmbr and chkdsk c: /r

 

Yes I have, many times and all the other options too.

 

I think I'm out of my depth here. I don't know what the recovery console is and I don't know where the other apps mentioned are. If I did I don't know How I could run them if I can't access the files. I would like to say I acquired this computer 16 years ago from a friend and XP was already on it. I have used it continuously all that time with no problems except I had to fit a new DVD/ROM drive about 4 months ago. Also I might add this computer does not know the internet exists!

 

1. the drive may be incompatible with xp, if you can get into the bios, disable the dvd or cd drive, save changes and exit, see if it will reboot.
2. if you have access to a working pc, you can download the recovery console ISO and burn it to a cd or to a usb flash drive if your pc is capable of booting from a flash drive
3. go HERE and download xp_rec_con.iso
4. you can use imgburn to burn a cd or Rufus to burn to a flash drive
5. read at below link and if you have further questions about the recovery console, just ask:

https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/t/138692/xp-boot-fixes/

if you have an install cd for xp you can also get to the recovery console there.
note: you will have to get into the bios to set either the cd or usb to boot first when using the recovery console
note2: chkdsk with the /r parameter , the iso is for service pack 3, what service pack is on your pc?

 

Thank you Elizabeth23. I will work through your 5 suggestions, it may take a bit of time, I am learning as I go and you may have gathered I'm not a Spring Chicken any more. I have got a copied XP pro operating system and MS office XP. I will try to find out my Service Pack. Also to find out about the little faces.

 

Ok, let me know if you have questions, I will attempt to answer them.