If no key is pressed, the computer continues to boot normally and does not boot from the CD. Some bootable CDs (e.g., Microsoft Windows CD), prompts for you to press any key to boot from the CD. If the computer loads to an error message when attempting to boot or loads into Windows, you may be encountering any of the following situations. As the computer boots, it should detect the bootable disc and use the files on it to boot. If Vista is installed on a drive besides the C: drive, you should replace C: with the appropriate drive letter.To boot from the computer, place the CD or DVD into the drive and reboot the computer. In order to run checkdisk to repair the hard drive, you should type the following: chkdsk C: /r and press Enter. Running Checkdisk from the Windows DesktopĬlick on the Start Menu, All Programs, Accessories, right click on Command Prompt and click on Run as Administrator. Remember to eject your Windows Vista CD or DVD before your system tries to boot from it.

To leave the System Recovery tool and reboot your computer, type exit and press Enter.

If any errors appear, contact the DoIT Help Desk. When the scan is complete, a report similar to the one below will display. The scan may take several hours to complete. If Vista is installed on a drive besides the C: drive, you should replace C: with the appropriate drive letter. In order to run checkdisk to repair the hard drive, you should type the following: chkdsk C: /rĪnd press Enter. To run checkdisk, you must click on Command Prompt.Ī black window will appear, as shown below. The System Recovery Options will then appear, as shown below. NOTE: If no operating system is available at this step, there is an issue with your Vista installation that cannot be repaired by running chkdsk. Select the operating system you wish to repair and click Next as shown below.

For most users there will only be one option listed. You must choose the operating system that you would like to repair. If you do not press a key before the message disappears, the computer will not start using the CD or DVD.Īfter your computer has booted from the disc, select your language and then press Next, as shown below.Ĭlick on Repair your computer as shown below. If you are prompted to Press any key to boot from CD or DVD.Insert your Vista installation DVD and then restart the computer. You must boot from the Vista installation or recovery disc that came with your computer. Running Checkdisk from the Windows Desktop.Microsoft provides a utility, checkdisk, that can help determine the state of your hard drive. If Windows will not boot in either normal or safe mode, there may be a problem with the file system on your hard drive, or the hard drive itself.

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