Booting Problem

[JVU]

This issue just recently arised on Wednesday. Whenever I try to start up
my computer, it loads to the Windows XP display screen then
automatically reboots again to the beginning, until it comes back to
the display screen and once again reboots. It is just an endless cycle
of rebooting. I don't understand why this is happening as I always try
to keep my computer free of viruses and problems. I also scanned for
viruses, spyware, registry errors, etc the day before, and everything
seemed to be fine. This is the first time that I have ever saw such a
problem like this on my computer. Could I recieve some advise on how to
solve this matter? Anything of use is good, thanks.

 

[Maurice N ~ MVP]

For now, suggest 2 things: (a) Disable automatic restart, (b) try Safe mode. Just to see if you can get the STOP code, or if you can login, then it's possible you can restart the system in normal mode.

When the pc is booting up (after the BIOS has done its POST test and
before Windows starts loading),
Tap F8 Function key to get bootup options. Tap & keep repeat tapping F8 !

You will actually see "Disable automatic restart on system failure" as an option .
Select that and give it a try. This option is available if you have XP service pack 2.

Once restart on failure is disabled, you should get a STOP error with
text --- at the next problem.
Write it all down, and then start searching for the final solution.

While in Safe mode, run MSCONFIG. Look at the Startup Tab. Reduce "your" startup apps to the barebones (keep your antivirus & any firewall).

Take a look at the Troubleshooting Windows STOP messages at Aumha.org

http://aumha.org/win5/kbestop.htm

 

[Guest]

According to McAfee, W32/IRCbot.worm!MS05-039 is a worm that was discovered
08/16/2005. It can cause your system to restart continuously. Up to date
McAfee users are protected. This sounds like your symptoms and the timing is
about right. Do you have McAfee and are your virus definitions up to date?

 

[Guest]

Also from McAfee:

Registry keys are created to load the worm at startup:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\
CurrentVersion\Run "wintbp.exe" = wintbp.exe

If you are able to get past the restart issue using Maurice's advise, look
for this registry entry. I would be interested to know what you find if you
would care to post back.