So I have logged over 8 hours with bogus McAfee tech and customer "support" since downloading their internet security package. Simply put; after installation McAfee prompted to restart my computer so I allowed it to do so, and I haven't been able to log into Windows since. I cannot log in under safe mode, safe w/ networking, safe w/command prompt, Last known good config, normal, or any other option. Each time I attempt to load Windows I get an instantly dissapearing blue flash with the word Stop in the left hand corner and a bunch of numbers and my computer crashes and re-starts. I've read everything I could on blue screen of death etc... and those all seem easily repairable by updating a driver or removing McAfee... but what are you supposed to do when you can't even log in using "safe mode?"

Which version of Windows?

Get your install disc. We will get back on track.

Insert Windows DVD. Boot from DVD. Choose Repair. Do not run StartUp repair if offered.
Choose System Restore.

Windows Vista was pre-installed on the computer when I bought it from Best Buy 3 years ago. I never received an installation DVD; I was only given the backup DVD and there is no repair option in its menu, it gave me the option of wiping Drive C to reload Windows, but I didn't want to do that without further consultation. The last thing I wanted was to erase everything I have stored on there, and still not be able to boot Windows. Is there a way to get an installation DVD somewhere? Or do I have to buy a new Vista product? Thank you for the reply by the way, it's nice to finally converse with someone trying to help!

NeoSmart has a legal download available for persons in your situation.

You cannot install Vista from this product. You can, however, boot to the repair screen and access the System Restore option.

Once we solve this problem, we can then explore the options available to you that may allow you to create a bootable install DVD from your hard drive.

My bad.

The download is priced just under $10. This pricing is consistent with the fee that your laptop distributor would charge you for a Vista installation DVD.

I have, on more than one occasion, acquired Windows installation DVDs from Dell, et al, at no charge to me.

$10 is no sweat, thank you very much for the link I am going to get on that right away and try it out, I will post my success or failure later, you have been most helpful!

Please deposit matching funds at the Joli Bear College Education Fund.

I mean, my pleasure.

I followed the steps to make a dvd and instalation tool, I don't get a repair option... by tapping F8 and Tab together at startup I was able to get to a menu that allowed me to press F9 to open up a recovery option. "Recover System to a partition" Will this wipe my drive?
I also was able to decode the blue screen that flashes instantly before a restart, it follows;
STOP: C0000135 Unable to Load Component
This Application has failed to start because Consrv was not found Re-installing the application may fix the problem

I suspect that you are NOT booting from the DVD. Your manual here.

Turn off PC. Power on PC. Wait two or three seconds for beep. Press F8. Select DVD drive. Press Enter.

The foregoing instruction is an approximation. The goal is to boot from the DVD.

This may be caused by a root kit infection
OR
McAfee's false positive for a root kit infection.

Additional assistance has been requested. Please stand by.

Please perform the steps listed at
http://www.pchelpforum.com/xf/threads/prework-please-read-before-posting.131846/

if possible

When I select boot from dvd (or usb, since I have made a usb instalation disc also) nothing happens, it goes through the same process as if I don't

If I suggest that you create a Linux Live boot CD or USB, can you?

Your PC problem is probably caused by the McAfee install detecting a root-kit infection. This detection may or may not be valid.

Step ONE is remove McAfee, using a different OS (the Linux boot disc).

Re: not booting from DVD. I am reading your manual to get step by step instructions for enabling BIOS settings.

I can create any boot cd / usb needed