Getting Error message " the operating system version is incompatible with Startup Repair"

Question

Original title: Windows 8.1 Automatic Repair - OS incompatible with Startup Repair

Today I came back from lunch to my computer with no screen or sleep mode.  I had to restart it as I could not wake it.  It went into the famous Auto Repair loop. 

• I've tried every option except the two that will wipe your files and/or programs.
• I was able to CHKDSK /R at the command prompt.  There was no issue.
• Restore comes up with and error 0X81000204 no matter what restore point I use.
• The log file for auto repair reads "the operating system version is incompatible with Startup Repair
• I have the original Windows 8 upgrade disc (not 8.1)
• I've disconnected all extra drives and USB except for C Drive and keyboard and mouse

My system is all new parts.  ASUS motherboard with an Intel i7.

What is going on?

Answer 1

a. Press " Win key + c" to get the charms menu.

b. Click "Settings".

c. Press and hold the shift key on the keyboard.

d. Do a left click on the power.

e. Click Restart.

f. Click troubleshoot, click advanced options.

g. Click Start up settings and click restart.

h. Press the number on the keyboard that is displayed next to Disable Driver Signature Enforcement.

i. Check if you get the bluescreen.

I could not boot into Windows in order to get to the Charms menu.  Windows did not book.  The bad driver was found using the command prompt and reading the logfile\srt\srttrail.txt.

Answer 2

I had to reinstall Windows 8 and start from scratch.  Thanks is due to a Microsoft Tech.  We downloaded a rescue disc using my other Windows 7 system.  After 93 updates I was able to upgrade to Windows 8.1.  I have a long way to go to reinstall my programs.   YES, I made a Recovery Drive right away once I was back to 8.1.

I ordered a new hard drive to backup and image the C Drive too.

Lessons learned:

• Had I just reinstalled Windows after the first down day I would only be 2 days behind work instead of 6.  I spent too much time trying to save the OS and programs.  My data was always safe as it is on a separate hard drive and backed up on another.
• I took the hard drive out and tried to copy over msisadrv.sys with one I downloaded from another forum. The drivers folder is protected so I could not copy.  However, I never tried to use the command prompt to copy/replace the file.  What is the worst that could have happened?
• You should not call Microsoft unless you are prepared to reinstall Windows.  Those guys are not interested in looking for alternatives to save your OS.  They just want to get you back up with a fresh install asap.  That is their goal.  You are better off researching the problem online or enlisting a computer geek friend.
• I will never hesitate to buy an extra hard drive to image the main drive again.

Case closed.