Windows 7: Startup loop after reinstalling Windows 7

I am not sure where to put this question but here goes:

So I managed to go through the process of restore, receiving the message that it was 100% complete. This was done using 2 disks given at the store.

The current problem is that I am stuck in a loop comprised of the following messages and associated operations:



1. I am asked for a password (and the one that I supplied at the BIOS page works)
2. 'Setup is preparing the computer for the first time'
3. I get the blue screen and the 'Welcome' message
4. 'Factory Installation is in progress' and I am not to interrupt it
5. 'Configuring the system'
6. 'Logging off'
7. Computer shuts down
8. Computer restarts
9. 1 repeats, etc.

I might note that when I was given the choice towards the end of the use of the two recovery disks I choose to install not just on one partition but on two. I DID remove the recovery disk from the DVD player..

Any advice or guidance is appreciated. Thanks in advanc.e

How long has this been happening? My computer goes through this about 10 times before it finishes, and it takes 2-3 hours when I do a factory restore.

It just started today right after the restore. I have not stayed with it to see how long it would continue.

Why should it happen even once?

It may be some kind of loop it is stuck in, but it may also just be that the computer installs programs, has to reboot for the programs to function, and then installs more, etc. Typically, you are told this may be the case through a message during this installation process. I have an HP computer, for instance, and a message shows up telling me that Windows may restart multiple times during the setup process.

Could you use a digital camera and take some pictures of each step of the process you describe so I can get an idea of whether it is normal behavior or not?

It's odd that would get this AFTER you get a message saying restore was successful.

You said in another thread that you installed to 2 partitions.

You should post a screen shot of Disk Management.

Here is how to post a screen shot:

Screenshots and Files - Upload and Post in Seven Forums

You can access Disk Management by typing those 2 words in the start box.

Sure, I will take some pictures and also see how long it continues

I should point out that this was not happening until I did the restore/recovery.

Thanks.

I would first run Recovery from its Partition which is the most stable method, then save the disks for backup use only as they are not always as stable.

What you should be looking for to determine if in a loop is if the process does anything different when it restarts. If it only repeats the same script then it's likely stuck. Start over and use the F11 Recovery from partition.

You can also find a Windows 7 retail installer to clean reinstall with the Product Key on the COA sticker attached to machine. Here's how: Reinstalling Windows 7

This is an ASUS laptop and I purchased a Geek Squad 'PC Setup and Restore CD' which I was assuming did a clean install of Windows 7 as well as re-configuring the computer.

As I mentioned I did not choose the 'single partition' option during the restore but rather the option where a partition was used (two drives?). Obviously I am not terribly conversant with this stuff! So I do not know, for example, if there is recovery possible from a hard drive.

Thanks. Based on the comments already received here I will have to get some more information to all of you.

I would say, the OP is using ASUS Recovery Disks.