System Restore Alternatives

[Udir]

I have a laptop that I am trying to fix, that is having all types of problems.

The start bar won't appear, cannot uninstall anything from the control panel, internet won't load, the list goes on. Another pressing problem is the MS System restore software won't load either. I have a point about a week ago that should work should I be able to restore it.

Are there other products on the market that I can use to boot to a CD that will read the system restore information and restore the system to one of the dates?

Does anyone have any other suggestions?

 

[linney]

You could try Safe Mode, which if it loads will give you possible access to System Restore.

You might have a bad case of malware so it may pay you to study this FAQ first.

Removing adware & spyware
faq608-4650

Microsoft (GIANT Antispyware) Beta available
Thread779-979113

You current Windows (and only it) can be restored from its own Restore Points. You may be able to use the following two articles to force a restore to an earlier time.

HOW TO: Install and Use the Recovery Console for Windows XP (Q307654)

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q307/6/54.asp

An easy to follow recovery console description when unable to start computer due to corrupt registry.

http://www.digitalwebcast.com/2002/03_mar/tutorials/cw_boot_toot.htm

The above is a layman's version of Q307545 in simple language.


Cannot Boot Windows due to Corrupt Registry
faq779-5362

 

[Udir]

Well I can't accomplish it in Safe mode, same problem. Can't get on the internet to get any other software. IE cant get Microsoft Antispyware to load b/c I can't validate and update.

Thanks for the suggestions.

 

[linney]

See if this will restore your Internet Connection.

WinXP Connectivity Issues
Lost Connectivity after Registry or Malware Cleanup
faq779-4625

You really should perform as much of this (below) as you can before doing the above connectivities issue and start removing some of the malware.

Removing adware & spyware
FAQ608-4650

What machine are you on now, can you at least download and run HiJack This?


Other later things to consider.

Try running ChkDsk to check your drive for errors. Right click your Drive icon/ Properties/ Tools/ Error Checking.

Run the System File Checker program from the Run Box by typing.....Sfc /Scannow in it and have your XP CD handy.

HOW TO: Verify Unsigned Device Drivers in Windows XP

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q308/5/14.asp

If they don't work you could try repairing windows by running it over itself. You will lose all your windows updates but your files will be untouched.

How to Perform an In-Place Upgrade (Reinstallation) of Windows XP (Q315341)

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q315/3/41.asp

If the repair doesn't help then it may be a format and re-install clean XP for you?

 

[Udir]

Thanks for the help.

It ended up being a corrupted LSP. Ran the fix on cexx.com

Again thanks for the help.