How to Create a Bootable Floppy for Windows Vista
A bootable disk contains data that can start Windows in case of emergency. If Windows Vista's startup files are corrupted, you can use the files on the boot disk to fix the problem and get Windows running again. Windows Vista's "Format" tool can turn any 3 1/2-inch floppy disk into a boot disk by copying important MS-DOS files during the format process. Any files already on the floppy disk will be erased when the disk is formatted.
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Instructions
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Insert a floppy disk into the drive on your computer. Click the "Start" button and select "Computer" to open Windows Explorer.
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Right-click the floppy drive in the "Devices with Removable Storage" list. Click "Format."
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Type a label in the "Volume label" field. Type letters and numbers only, and ensure that the label is 11 characters or less.
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Click "Create an MS-DOS Startup Disk." Click "Start" to format the disk. Store your bootable floppy disk in a secure location where you can easily find it.
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Tips & Warnings
You will not be able to access your files using the bootable disk on any hard drive formatted with NTFS.
You can also use your Windows Vista installation CD as a boot disk.
If Windows won't start, insert the disk into the floppy drive and restart your computer.
You may have to change the boot priority in your system BIOS to make your computer boot from the floppy. Check your computer's documentation for instructions.
You must use MS-DOS commands to use the bootable floppy to fix computer problems. Get a reliable MS-DOS reference or type "Help" at the command prompt.
Ensure that the disk doesn't contain any data that you will need. If it does, copy it onto an external storage device or onto your hard drive before you proceed.
A bootable floppy may compromise the security of your computer if you have important files stored on drives with FAT or FAT32 formatting.
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