How to Repair Windows Vista Using Startup Repair

The Windows Startup Repair tool may restore your computer to good health.

Windows Vista has many more diagnostic and repair tools than its predecessor, Windows XP. One especially useful feature is the Windows Startup Repair. A powerful diagnostic tool, it automates the repair process if you experience problems booting up. Running the Startup Repair tool will often restore a non-booting Windows Vista computer to working order.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Windows Vista DVD

1. Boot your computer from the Windows Vista DVD. You may need to configure the BIOS settings on your PC so the computer will boot from the DVD drive. Review the user manual for your computer or motherboard for details on how to access the BIOS setup menu.

2. Watch for a message on your computer screen directing you to "Press any key to boot from CD or DVD." Press a key on your keyboard. Windows Vista will begin loading from the DVD.

3. Set your language, time, currency format and keyboard or input method when prompted for this information. After selecting the desired options, click the "Repair Your Computer" option. The "System Recovery Options" dialogue box appears.

4. Select the "Windows Vista" installation option. If you need to load drivers for certain devices, click "Load Drivers." Click "Next" to continue.

5. Click "Startup Repair" from the list of options that appears. The automatic repair process will begin. Your computer may reboot one or more times. Don't be alarmed – this is a normal part of the repair process.

6. Wait for the "System Restore" screen to appear. If you believe that your computer might have been damaged by a recent software installation or other change, run the System Restore program. Otherwise, click "Cancel."

Tips & Warnings

• On most computers, accessing the BIOS setup menu requires that you press the "Delete" key or the "F2," "F8" or "F12" function key, depending on your brand and model, when the computer starts up. Watch for the on-screen prompt indicating the appropriate hot key.

• If Startup Repair did not detect any problems, you'll be asked if you want to send diagnostic details about the problem to Microsoft. This is strictly optional.

• If no problems are detected by the Windows Vista Startup Repair tool and the computer still does not work, you'll need to try more advanced diagnostic tools such as System Restore, Windows Complete PC Restore or the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool.

References

• BleepingComputer.com: How to Automatically Repair Windows Vista Using Startup Repair
• TechRepublic: Startup Repair Tool Will Automatically Diagnose and Fix Startup Problems