Can't boot vista

[milo66]

I can't book vista in an mode. I just keep coming back back to the screen that asks you to select mode. Here's what happened:

1. I discovered that I had a virus hijacking my searches. I went to safe mode to try to delete a suspected file.

2. I couldn't delete it even in safe mode.

3. I shut the computer off by holding down the power button.

4. I powered up and got the mode selection screen. I selected "normal." Wouldn't do it. I've tried selecting all the other modes. No luck.

5. I tried tapping F8 while booting. It told me to insert the installation disk. I never got an install disk.

I'm fairly sure that the problem is not the hijack virus, since I've had it a few days. It's annoying but not serious. I'm also fairly sure that that attempting to delete the problem file is not the problem, but it failed to delete anyway - kept saying that I need permission and to try again.

I'd appreciate solving the problem.

 

[kesume]

Hi welcome to the forum,
I would suggest that you do a full Anti Virus scan, and then
You should download malwarebytes and do a full scan also, making sure it is uptp date
Malwarebytes freeware

Let us know the results

 

[richc46]

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. Choose an option tht will not cause you to lose your stuff.

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

 

[milo66]

Hi welcome to the forum,
I would suggest that you do a full Anti Virus scan, and then
You should download malwarebytes and do a full scan also, making sure it is uptp date
Malwarebytes freeware

Let us know the results

I don't understand this. How can I run any kind of scan when I can't get the system to boot?

I also said that I don't have an installation/recovery disk.

 

[Ardneh]

Even though you can't boot into Windows you probably can boot into a Linux LiveCD.

You will need a working computer to download and burn this boot disk.

Avira AntiVir Rescue System - Download

http://www.imgburn.com/index.php?act=download

 

[milo66]

Problem solved.

I managed to find a Windows recovery disk that is available by torrent online. I booted up with it and it fixed whatever the problem was. Further, it also fixed the hijacking problem as a bonus.