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Can only run my PC in Safe Mode, and unable to use System Restore.

Anonymous
2011-03-15T18:52:13+00:00

Hi there

When I try to boot up my PC, I get the screen telling me Windows didn't shut down properly and giving me the options of starting in Safe Mode, Safe Mode with Network, DOS prompt, or Normal Mode.

If I start my PC in Normal mode, Windows seems to load OK and the desktop also loads as usual. However, I am unable to run any programs, access anything else or connect to the internet – basically, none of the PC’s functions are working. If I try to run the Task Manager, I get an error message. I cannot even use the Start Menu to turn off my PC – I have to hold down the on/off button on the case.

If I start in Safe/Network mode, Windows loads and most functions work and I can access the internet.

I’ve tried using system restore and although I get the dialogue saying my PC is being restored and then it shuts down, it automatically reloads in Normal Mode and just freezes again. When I open again in Safe Mode, the system restore hasn’t worked.

I’d appreciate any advice if this rings any bells with anyone.

Steve

System specs:

Dell Inspiron 531

AMD Athlon 64 x2 Dual Core Processor 6000+ 3.01 GHz

3 GB RAM

Windows Vista Home Premium 32bit SP2

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Performance and system failures

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  1. Anonymous
    2011-03-17T16:52:51+00:00

    Update.

    David, I've just managed to get the problem sorted so I thought it right to reply here to let you know. The drummer in our band is a real whizz on these type of things and he also has the same model Dell as me, which helped I think.

    I had to update the nVidia motherboard and graphics drivers - it appears they had been incorrectly updated by Windows. Also, he gave me a program which sorted out my LSP Stack - whatever that is LOL!

    Anyway, I really appreciate your time and effort on my behalf - thanks for stopping by.

    Steve

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  1. Anonymous
    2011-03-15T19:11:22+00:00

    Suggestions only :

    While you are in safe mode .......

    1. Make sure computer is virus free. Run a full virus scan with your AV (anti-virus) program you have. If you need extra help doing that ....

    Use Malwarebytes :

    http://www.malwarebytes.org/ .... pickthe free version.

    1. Run a system file check to make sure there are no corrupted files.

    http://www.vistax64.com/tutorials/66978-system-files-sfc-command.html

    1. Run a disk check to check for corruption and possibly repair errors and bad sectors on the hard drive.

    Start button > search box, type cmd > look up, right click on cmd.exe > Run As Administrator >in the black and white window, at the flasing prompt, type chkdsk /f/r > press Enter key.

    Note : there is a space between " chkdsk " and " / "

    The screen will say something like can't do it now but do you want to run it on restart. Click " y " as in yes >

    press Enter > Exit cmd window.

    Restart your computer. It will take quite some time.

    DO NOT shut down the machine. Just wait.

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  1. Anonymous
    2011-03-15T21:32:23+00:00

    P.S. It gets better results when you do system restore in Safe Mode.

    How to go to safe mode :

    Shut down your computer > turn it back on, and immediately and repeatedly tap F8 key until you see a black and white screen.

    Use the up/down arrow key and select Safe Mode.

    When I've been in Normal Mode, the only way I can shut down is by using the on/off switch on the case. So when I reboot, I always get the options screen to run in all modes.

    The trouble is, if I turn off in Safe Mode, I never get the option screen when I reboot - sort of Catch 22 really.

    I can only run System Restore in Safe Mode, I get all the usual messages about my files being restored and then my PC shuts down. When it automatically reboots I don't see the boot options and it opens in Normal Mode - then everything freezes again. When I pull the plug and reboot in Safe Mode, the restore hasn't taken place :(

    I'll try another restore and use F8 to see if I can force the auto reboot in Safe Mode.

    Thanks again.

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  2. Anonymous
    2011-03-15T20:51:37+00:00

    You are welcome.

    I hope one of my suggestions will help. No guarantees.

    P.S. It gets better results when you do system restore in Safe Mode.

    How to go to safe mode :

    Shut down your computer > turn it back on, and immediately and repeatedly tap F8 key until you see a black and white screen.

    Use the up/down arrow key and select Safe Mode.

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  3. Anonymous
    2011-03-15T20:41:21+00:00

    Many thanks for such a quick reply David - I really appreciate that.

    I already use MalwareBytes so I'd performed a 'quick' scan. As per your recommendation, I've just started a 'full' scan of my drives.

    I'm guessing it will take quite a while but if it turns up nothing, I'll move on and try your other suggestions.

    Again, thanks for your help.

    Steve

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