Introduction

A common problem I’m seeing is Windows Vista hanging at a black blank screen when it boots up. This guide walks you through one simple attempt to fix Windows Vista and get it to boot up again.

This guide assumes Windows Vista was working fine previously.

Warning: Using this guide could cause a loss of data although it’s a very small chance. What do you have to lose? You can’t boot Vista anyway.

Last Known Good Configuration

I’m going to walk you through booting Windows Vista using its last known good configuration. Since Windows Vista reverts to a previous version of the registry, you might lose data that was worked with since your last successful boot.

1. Make sure your computer is powered down.
2. Turn your computer on and immediately start pressing F8 on your keyboard repeatedly until you see a black screen with white writing that gives you a list of boot options.
3. Use the down arrow on your keyboard to select the Last Known Good Configuration (Advanced) option.
4. Press Enter on your keyboard and cross your fingers.

Good Luck!