We only lose what we don't backup. People who don't backup usually won't take the advice and will only learn this lesson first hand. People who didn't backup and have an issue usually demand a fix and don't want to hear about backup because they know they didn't practice safe computing.
It doesn't matter what you want as to loss, new PC or other. The repair may involve having to reload a few programs or more. NOTHING in your post tells if this can be simply fixed by the procedure I'll number at #1
1. Boot SAFE MODE and use SYSTEM RESTORE to when it worked. This is the safest method (if it works.)
2. There are far too many causes to this issue. Outside of System Restore, more hands on information is required about the boot failure. But the boot to SAFE MODE if it works does lead to the following article which can be used to fix many problems -> http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;q149962
This article covers almost all the troubleshooting methods including installing Windows ME to another folder and more.
Best of luck in recovery.
Bob
I was deleting my Temporary Internet Files (mostly cookies) yesterday, but I
must have also deleted some necessary files. When I tried running the
Windows Update, the computer froze and I would receive a "Not Responding"
error message. I have a local network, and it has "disappeared" from this
computer. Many things are no longer working on my system.
How can I resolve this issue?
Thanks, in advance, for your advise. It is crucial that I get this up and
running, because I own a business. I cannot afford to lose the programs and
files contained on the hard drive.
My OS is Windows ME (too many "non-compliances" on this computer to upgrade
to XP, and buying another computer is not an option).

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