How to Get Rid of Viruses When You Can't Boot Into Windows

Some viruses can prevent your computer from booting to the operating system. Depending on the virus, it can even disable access to Windows Safe Mode as well. If you are unable to boot your computer due to a virus, there are usually only two options: Create a bootable CD and remove the virus, or wipe the drive and reinstall Windows. If you have important files on your drive that you have not backed up, however, you might not be willing to format your hard drive. It might be best to create a bootable disk to bypass the virus.

Instructions

1. Get access to another computer and bring along a copy of your Windows install CDs. If you are using Windows Vista, download and install WinBuilder; if you are using Windows XP, download and install PE Builder.

2. Copy the files of your Windows install CD to an empty folder in the main (C:) directory. Name it "Vista" or "XP," depending on the operating system. If you are using Windows XP, download SP2 to a folder separate from the XP install files. Name the folder "SP2" and save it under the main directory.

3. Combine SP2 with the install files by going to "Start," "All Programs," "Accessories" and then "Run" if you are using Windows XP. Type "cmd.exe", then hit "Enter." Type "cd C:/SP2," then hit "Enter." Type the name of the SP2 install file, then "-s:c:xp." So, if the SP2 install file name is sp2.exe, then type "sp2.exe -s:c:xp." Hit "Enter." SP2 will combine with the XP install files.

4. Insert a blank CD into the CD-ROM drive. Run PE Builder or WinBuilder. If you are using WinBuilder, enable VistaPE via the "Download" tab.

5. Designate the "Source" as the folder containing the install files and the "Output" as your CD drive. Depending on the program you're using to create a boot CD, you may need to install extra plug-ins to have access to a browser or anti-virus software. Create the boot CD.

6. Insert the boot CD into the CD-ROM drive of the computer that has the virus on it. Turn on the computer. If the computer does not boot to the CD, go into your PC's BIOS and enable it to boot to CD (this process varies based on your BIOS software).

7. Run the boot CD's anti-virus program or load the installed browser and use an online anti-virus checker. Remove any detected viruses.

Tips & Warnings

• You must be the original owner of the Windows install CD to legally copy the install files.

References

• Optimizingpc.com: VistaPE
• Nu2.nu: Bart's Preinstalled Environment Builder (PE Builder)

Resources

• Getting and Installing Windows XP SP2
• Vistape.net: VistaPE
• Nu2.nu: PE Builder Plug-ins