Windows Vista forum: Failed Ophcrack Boot, Now System Won't Boot

I would categorize my use of Ophcrack and not NTPASSWD as general ignorance, I haven't heard about NTPASSWD. I'm not that experienced, and I read some good things about Ophcrack, so I used it. I guess I should have come here first.

This is a Compaq Presario. You're saying that I need to re-install windows vista completely?

If you don't know, you don't know.

--> REPAIR of the OS varies with the tools at hand. I don't see any detail about what Vista DVD you have or if this machine came with just restore media (or the system where you create such.)

That lack of detail means I can only offer this as the cure.

1. Get your files out with help from
http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/windows-vista/use-ubuntu-live-cd-to-backup-files-from-your-dead-windows-computer/

2. Then you are ready to restore to the factory load.

Some folk think what we read about repairing Windows applies to factory supplied Windows. It often does not because the OEM version is stripped of the recovery console and more.

In case you wonder why, it's simple. As the OEM must provide support they strip away features and commands we get in the full version since they would have to answer how to use the recovery console if they installed it or supplied it on the DVD.
Bob

Sorry, this isn't my personal computer, and the org that maintains this computer has not kept track of anything that goes with it... all that I can find is a dvd+r that says "Vista Business" 32-bit.

That's a RESTORE DVD so before you try it you save the files.

But it's not your PC so why not fix with the restore media and let their IT staff deal with the rest?
Bob

But I still have to try to find out the password. What's the info on NTPASSWD? Have any tips or tricks for a 'noob' using that crack?

It resets the admin password and then we can get in. It's widely documented so I don't write a tutorial here. I will comment if a person gets stuck but frankly it's a 2 minute job here to use it.

But there are folk that want to see screen shots, step by step so I understand why folk ask.
Bob