interactive logon process initialization has failed.

I am completely rubbish with computers, dont know much at all.
I removed Avast anti virus from my HP desktop computer, when i restarted it the screen is black with a note saying "interactive logon process initialization has failed. Please consult the event log for more details".
The computer is a few years old now but it did work fine up until now.
To make matters worse, i dont have a recovery disk, plus there is some data on the computer which i need to keep if at all possable.
help me please

Go back a few days before the problem began with system restore. The software will be back, but then we can remove the correct way
http://www.vistax64.com/tutorials/76905-system-restore-how.html

sorry just tryed it and it doesnt help. it still comes up with interactive logon process initialization has failed.

Well guess we should check the event viewer for codes and explanations
Go to search
type event viewer
go to administrative level
and look for errors.

i cant, interactive logon process initialization has failed keeps coming up, i cant even log in.

What can you do in safe mode?
How did you do the System Restore?

i tried to start in safe mode, no difference.
and to restore i tapped F8

Do you have a Vista install DVD?

no sorry no disks at all.

If you create a recovery DVD, you may be able to boot to recovery options
Create Recovery DVD

The Vista recovery disk is used to boot Vista when it won't boot - to run Startup Repair, System Restore, access a Command Line, Recover using a Vista Backup Image, etc.
System Recovery Options

If Vista will not start now, boot the Recovery CD to run Startup Repair which automates System Restore as well as numerous other tests including System File Checker which can repair system files which are not corrupted beyond repair.

If Vista still will not start, try booting into Safe Mode to run sfc /scannow to repair System files.
Special Thanks Given to Seven Forums.

Below is a bulletin distributed by MS to explain the start up procedure when Windows will not boot.

• Startup Repair. Startup Repair is a Windows recovery tool that can fix certain problems, such as missing or damaged system files, that might prevent Windows from starting. Startup Repair is located on the System Recovery Options menu, which is on the Windows Vista installation disc. If your computer has preinstalled recovery options, it might also be stored on your computer's hard disk. For more information, see Startup Repair: frequently asked questions and What are the system recovery options in Windows Vista? If your computer does not include Startup Repair, your computer manufacturer might have customized or replaced the tool. Check the information that came with your computer or go to the manufacturer's website.
• Change restart settings in safe mode. If your computer is stuck in a loop where Windows fails, attempts to restart, and then fails again repeatedly, restart your computer in safe mode and select the Disable automatic restart on system failure checkbox. For more information, see Advanced startup options (including safe mode).
• Reinstall. If no other options have solved the problem, and you are sure that your computer's hardware is functioning normally, you might need to reinstall Windows. A custom (clean) installation of Windows will permanently delete all of the files on your computer and reinstall Windows, so only use this option if all other recovery options have been unsuccessful. After the installation, you will need to reinstall your programs and restore your files from backup copies. For more information, see Installing and reinstalling Windows**.

will i loose all the data on my hard drive. there is a couple of things id like to keep.

The official answer is no. Everything is suppose to be saved to a file Windows.old. I would not want to bet my important stuff, though.
You can try to get your stuff first.
Use Ubuntu Live CD to Backup Files from Your Dead Windows Computer - How-To Geek
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For cost about $25.00 you can get a install DVD for cost, from your computer manufacturer. You can try a repair install, which is easier than the above, IMO.
http://www.vistax64.com/tutorials/88236-repair-install-vista.html?filter[11]=Performance Maintenance

Hi there.
I'm in the same shoes that Richard found himself in last year and I hope you can help me like you must have helped him.

I took a tour of the troubleshooting procedures you outlined up here and they seem very doable. The problem is I cannot even create a Recovery disk or perform any actions on my msi U100 without logging on.

For others, I guessed they clicked on 'Ok' and the system booted. Mine doesn't.
It simply removes the pop up and puts it back 4 seconds after.
Safe Mode runs some drivers until this particular one:

Loaded: \Windows\system32\drivers\crcdisk.sys

And afterwards, the same 'Interactive logon process initialization has failed' message pops up.

I'll really appreciate an upload of a startup disk that can help me as I am utterly without any.

Thanks so very much

Well, you've got access to a computer that works. Use it to create a bootable USB drive or CD, so you can boot up and repair your troubled computer. There are numerous tutorials on the subject.

Cytherian, thanks for the tip.
I'm yet to provide a feedback because I haven't gotten access to 'a system that works' just yet. (Living in a remote region for now)
Soon as I do, I'll let you know how it goes.
Thanks again. Good to know you're there.

You're welcome, and I hope you get it all squared away.