What's up Ben. Here is the long and the short of it... I will assume you are running Windows XP. Option 1: You can try to start the machine in "safe mode" and do a system restore. This is usually done by pressing the F8 key while the machine starts (tap the F8 key about every 2 seconds), then selecting "safe mode" when prompted. If it starts in safe mode, go to: Start/all programs/accessories/system tools/system restore. Try to restore your computer to a point that is prior to your problem occurring and follow the prompts. If that works, you’re done. Option 2: Once again start your computer. This time, press the "delete" key while it is starting. Find the boot sequence settings and change the first boot device to CDROM, and the second device to IDE-1(aka hard drive). Place your Windows Recovery Disc into the CDROM. Select "Save changes and exit" (I think it's F10) and your computer should restart on its own. While your computer is starting, you will see a line of information at the bottom of your display that says "press any key to boot from CD." You will have about 3 seconds to do that. If you computer boots from CD, then call your best computer geek friend to walk you through a system repair or new install.

I also recommend you register and login to www.annoyances.org for some very good help. Post as much information as you can about your problem and be very specific. Here is the link to the Windows XP forum: http://www.annoyances.org/exec/forum/winxp

Good luck,
Terry G.