Computer startup errors

I'm running Windows 7 on a Dell XPS. Every time I turn off the laptop and start it back up, I get an error saying that Windows did not shut down properly and it prompts me to start it up normally or in safe mode. I have only tried starting it up normally.

Then, I get an error telling me that Windows is checking for repairs because it cannot start up properly. A few minutes after that, it prompts me to restart my computer, and then it finally gets to the sign-in screen. I log on and find that my computer has done a system restart from Dec. 20th, 2011. Games and programs I've downloaded since then are gone, but personal files like my music and pictures are still intact.

When I try to run a scan with Symantec, it tells me I need to update it - which I do - and then scan it. Every time, it finds one piece of trackware on a cookie and deletes it.

I don't have the time or patience to keep going through this every time I start up my laptop. I'm only 19 and in college and I'm not very tech savvy so I'm not very good with specifics and whatnot. I really need some support or help before I have to start writing essays and other college stuff.

Thanks in advance.

Welcome to Windows Seven Forums.

Can you describe exactly how you are turning your laptop off?

It would seem that something has happened between December 20th 2011 and now.

You may have a virus that Norton hasn't picked up.

Many of us use Malwarebytes to scan our systems and can recommend it.

You can download it here: Malwarebytes : Malwarebytes Anti-Malware PRO removes malware including viruses, spyware, worms and trojans, plus it protects your computer

Most of the time I turn off my laptop, I put it in Hibernate.

And Maguscreed, the programs are gone. I have tried to search for them.

I'd be inclined to use Shut Down or Sleep rather than Hibernate.

In fact, I'd also be inclined to disable it.

Hibernate - Enable or Disable

How to disable and re-enable hibernation on a computer that is running Windows

Why is that? Does that really have anything to do with my problem?

It may do.

A problematic driver or an outdated BIOS can cause problems with restarting after Hibernation.

Crash on startup after hibernate

You're obviously having problems so it won't hurt to at least try shutting down instead of using hibernation. If the problem disappears we've at least pinned it down.

It won't hurt to check Dell Support either for updated drivers or BIOS.

Also, have you tried Maguscreed's suggestion?

Thank you for your help.

I ran the SCANNOW check and the results were that there were no integrity problems, Symantec scans did not pick up any viruses, and hibernate has been disabled.

Should I shut down my computer normally and start it back up in a few minutes to see if the problem occurs again? Or should I take any other necessary precautions?

JGentiluomo said:

Thank you for your help.

I ran the SCANNOW check and the results were that there were no integrity problems, Symantec scans did not pick up any viruses, and hibernate has been disabled.

Should I shut down my computer normally and start it back up in a few minutes to see if the problem occurs again? Or should I take any other necessary precautions?

Just try shutting down. If your computer then restarts without difficulty I think we can assume that it's hibernation that's causing the problem.

I realise that a restart from a shut down takes a bit longer, but if it alleviates your problem, it's a small price to pay. :)

Do check with Dell though for any updates that are available.

http://support.dell.com/