Help - Stuck in Reboot Loop

Hi. I'm running Vista 64 and one of my recent windows updates, for the .NET framework, is not able to complete (I don't think it completely downloaded), but when I boot up it keeps trying to complete installation then reboots the computer when it can't, in an endless loop.

What can I do? Does Vista have a 'Safe Mode' or something where I can bypass the normal boot up and be able to get on there to grab my few unbacked-up files, then reinstall Vista? Any other kind of temporary fix? I've been seeing a few weird things for the last couple of weeks so I want to do a clean reinstall no matter what at this point, but I REALLY need to grab a few super important files first.

 

Just before or at the start of the boot cycle repeatedly push the F8 key. You should get to a screen where you can boot into several different modes including 'safe mode'.

Also, if you made 'restore disks' or if you have a copy of Vista you could boot using the disk and try to repair by restoring the system to an earlier restore point where everything was working as it should.

 

Ok. Tried doing both Safe Mode and also Last Known Good Configuration, and they both went into the reboot cycle again.

 

You can try out this method. This is the official HP troubleshooting method that we follow.


Troubleshooting Startup and Boot Problems


Remove the battery and disconnect all external devices

This step is critical . Removing the battery and AC adapter will reset the power management logic in the notebook. This is a "hard reset". It is not necessary to hold the power button in for 30 seconds to "drain the capacitors".

It is also critical to remove all external devices. Make sure to check the optical drives and flash memory slots for media. Especially ensure all USB devices are removed, like MP3 players, IPODs and Cameras.



Plug the AC Adapter directly into a wall outlet and to the computer

In this step, you are checking the connection of the AC adapter from the computer to the wall. Check the following with the user:

AC Adapter is not plugged into a surge protector or extension cord
Wall outlet is functioning. (If necessary, have user plug in another device to validate the outlet is functioning)
Assure the AC adapter and power cord are connected together properly
Assure the DC plug is in the computer is connected properly and is not loose

 

No dice, went right back to looping in both regular and safe mode.

 

Ok, guess I'm gonna reinstall, and that I've learned an important and painful lesson about backing up my bookmarks regularly. I guess I should consider getting a really huge external HD and finding something to back up my entire computer's contents regularly without my manual assistance. Thanks for trying to help.

 

PM me your laptop serial number and product no. and lets see if I can set up a service for u for free.

 

this is a vista problem, google 'Vista loop of death'

 

Take a look at this article. I believe you have already tried Methods 1 and 2.
You may want to try Method 3.

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx/kb/949358