Windows (Vista) won't boot - May need a PE

doodah

doodah

doodah

Caporegime
Joined
18 Oct 2002
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Got a friends laptop here and it won't boot Windows (Vista Basic) properly. It POSTs fine and goes into Windows but just before it is about to start loading the desktop it comes up with a pop up message stating "Windows could not complete installation. To install Windows on this computer, restart the installation".

The owner, AFAIK, is a complete techno-phobe and has been using the computer for ages with no problems. I have been told the install is legit, I really don't think they would have the first clue about using a fake version of Windows.

I can't get into safe mode, last known good config won't work. Should I try a repair install? Will this wipe the files (need to backup work/pictures etc)? If that isn't an option, I was thinking a preinstall environment could help? However reading up on e.g. BartPE with a USB (don't have any CDs/DVDs) requires all sorts of things I don't have. Is there an open souce/free PE I can get that easily works with a USB drive?

Thanks
 
A Vista repair install would be my first port of call. It preserves all user data. All it does is repair/replace system files. If you are worried about the data, I would first use something like Linux Mint and use the Live CD feature to copy the files to a USB drive.
 
As above really, it doesn't wipe out user files by design but if you have the chance to back up - do it. I wouldn't bother messing with a USB version of PE, if you've got the Vista disc just boot from that.
 
Startup Repair only checks your boot files and such. You want a Repair Install. Should be one of the options near the very start of the Windows Vista setup.
 
I only get 'repair your computer' at the first screen for installation, if I go into it I get the following:

Startup repair
Sytem restore
Windows complete PC restore
Windows memory diagnostic tool
Command prompt
 
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