I need some help. I downloaded a file and tried to open it. I was advised by WMP that I needed a codec to play the file. I chose to download and install what I thought was the codec. I was never able to play the file so I deleted it.

A while later my PC shut down. Then it rebooted and got to the logon screen and all the way to the desktop, displaying all my apps/files. Then before I could do anything it shut down again...and restarted. And it keeps doing this. I attempted to use system restore before it shuts down but there is not enough time to open it.

Any advice?

Are you able to access Safe Mode using an F8 at boot? If so, please try Last Known Good Configuration.