

Then let's check some of your system files: If that doesn't work, try to boot into safe mode (repeatedly click the F8 key while booting and go to safe mode with networking – or do so from the command prompt on the disk). If you don't have either disk, you can make a bootable Recovery Disk along with burning software and, of course, a blank CD. I know you tried this from the system but it might work better if done from the disk. When prompted, push any key to boot from the CD. Make the changes, save your work, and exit. To do that, wait for the screen that tells you the F key to push to access the boot menu or boot setup. To boot to the CD you may need to change the BIOS to make the CD-drive first in the boot sequence. If the System Restore doesn't work, do a Startup Repair by booting to the genuine Windows Vista Installation Disk (or one you can borrow from ANYONE) or from a Recovery Disk. Use the recovery disk if the system prompt doesn’t work.

NOTE: You will have to re-install any software and updates you installed between now and the restore point, but you can use Windows Update for the updates. If the first attempt fails, then try an earlier point or two. Be sure to check the box to show more than 5 days of restore points. Do you know when this problem began? Try a System Restore to a point in time BEFORE the problem began.
