"Windows failed to start" - ASUS A8JS VISTA

**Byte** · 21-12-09, 08:04 PM

OK -

Another failed HDD story.

Black screen (with writing)
VISTA Home Premium

Error message -
"Windows failed to start. A recent hardware or software change might be the cause. To fix the problem : Insert windows installation disc and restart computer and then click "repair your computer."

Further text on screen:
"File:/windows/system32/config/system
Status: 0xc000014C
Info: Windows failed to load because the system registry file is missing or corrupt."

Notebook brand new when purchased off a reputable supplier.

ATM – I cannot find my install disc. I have a legitimate version of VISTA. I recall that I was given a special boot disc (and not a dedicated Windows cd).

next steps?

have i lost all of my data?

**Aboulaly** · 21-12-09, 09:51 PM

No loss of data should occur unless the harddrive is dead which I doubt, I do recommend to take your drive out, put it on a working pc and back up all your data before you try any fix.

**Zero Alpha** · 21-12-09, 10:37 PM

Most laptops keep a recovery image on a hidden factory partition if you have a look in the start up menus. Try your F8 safe mode options. You can also manually repair your registry from system restore backups.

**Byte** · 22-12-09, 12:15 AM

OK - HDD removed from notebook and reads/writes happily via usb on another PC.

However, I want to be able to retrieve my recent saved internet links prior to the crash.

When I peruse through the HDD, I cannot locate them.

I defintiely saved these links and I want them back.

One possible obstacle – I am using XP to look at this HDD that was setup with VISTA.

PLease help me.

Zero Alpha - I tried F8 prior to removal from notebook - still no work. How to manually repair registry from system restore backups??

Cameron

**Byte** · 22-12-09, 07:37 AM

should i be able to locate the specific registry file(s) somehere else and insert it back into the windows directory of this suspect hdd?

what is thif sile(s) called?

byte

**Zero Alpha** · 22-12-09, 09:57 AM

Originally Posted by Byte

should i be able to locate the specific registry file(s) somehere else and insert it back into the windows directory of this suspect hdd?

what is thif sile(s) called?

byte

Yes if your computer was keeping restore points you can replace the necessary hive with the most recent backup. It sounds like you will need to google a tutorial on how to do this.