What Steps Can I Take to Fix a Disk Error on Windows 7?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around troubleshooting a "disk error" message on a Windows 7 computer, focusing on potential solutions for accessing files and repairing the system without incurring costs. Participants explore various methods, including the use of recovery disks and alternative operating systems.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes their issue with a disk error and inability to access files or the desktop.
  • Another suggests installing a free and open-source operating system (FOSS) like Linux, though this is challenged as it may not help recover files.
  • Some participants mention using Linux distributions that can boot from a CD to potentially assist in recovery, though results are uncertain.
  • There is a suggestion that the problem may stem from a corrupted hard disk or issues with the Master Boot Record, and that diagnosing or repairing it may require access to another functioning computer.
  • One participant inquires about rebooting a laptop that repeatedly prompts for "ctrl + alt + delete," indicating they have a Windows 7 reboot CD but are unsure how to use it.
  • Another participant advises ensuring the BIOS is set to boot from the CD drive before the hard drive to utilize the Windows 7 reboot CD.
  • A detailed step is provided for using installation media to attempt repairs, including instructions for accessing the command prompt and running a disk check tool (chkdsk) to identify and fix errors.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views on how to address the disk error, with no consensus on a single solution. Some advocate for using Linux, while others emphasize the importance of Windows recovery tools. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to recover files and repair the system.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the effectiveness of various recovery methods and the potential severity of the disk issue. There are limitations regarding the availability of necessary tools and the condition of the hard drive.

icecubebeast
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I have a problem. Whenever I turn on my other computer it says: "A disk error occurred" and I tried to insert a system recovery disk into the computer and I waited for hours but nothing worked. The computer screen is black after I press "ctrl + alt + delete" even though the text suggested that. I can't access my files, I can't go on the internet and I can't go to desktop view.

How can I fix my computer without having to pay money?
 
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icecubebeast said:
[ ... ] How can I fix my computer without having to pay money?
Install a FOSS OS Linux. Eschew Windoze.
 
Last edited:
Doug Huffman said:
Install a FOSS OS Linux.

That will not help him access his files.
 
There are some Linux distributions prepared to start from CD and to help in such situations. Doesn't mean they will work, but it can be worth trying.

Google "rescue CD".
 
Last edited:
icecubebeast said:
I have a problem. Whenever I turn on my other computer it says: "A disk error occurred" and I tried to insert a system recovery disk into the computer and I waited for hours but nothing worked. The computer screen is black after I press "ctrl + alt + delete" even though the text suggested that. I can't access my files, I can't go on the internet and I can't go to desktop view.

How can I fix my computer without having to pay money?
Something has gotten corrupted on your hard disk. It could just be a problem with the Master Boot Record; it could be something more serious.

You have to ask yourself if the files on this drive are worth saving, if you don't want to spend any money to fix it. I don't think you can diagnose or repair this problem without access to a functioning computer, which you could use to scan the corrupt drive. If you know someone who has a Windows Rescue CD prepared, you might be able to scan and troubleshoot the bad drive.

http://lifehacker.com/5984707/five-best-system-rescue-discs
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Ok, so how would you reboot a laptop that always returns to "press ctrl + alt + delete" even though I do as the computer screen tells me to do?

I've already made a windows 7 reboot CD. I don't know how to reboot the laptop in this case.
 
icecubebeast said:
Ok, so how would you reboot a laptop that always returns to "press ctrl + alt + delete" even though I do as the computer screen tells me to do?

I've already made a windows 7 reboot CD. I don't know how to reboot the laptop in this case.

Make sure your laptop's BIOS is set to boot from the CD drive before the hard drive. Then you should be able to use your Windows 7 reboot CD.
 
Here's basically what you need to do as a starting step.
  • Boot the computer using installation media (Windows Operating system disk)
  • Attempt to repair the issues in the preinstallation environment
First off, if you do not have a windows 7 installation disk, you can download it from microsoft.
Download the correct version for your system and burn it onto a DVD using another computer.

To boot from the DVD drive you have to instruct your system to load from the DVD instead of the hard disk. Usually this is done by hitting a key on the BIOS loading screen. Here's an example, if this was your computer, you'd hit the ESC key. But depending on your computer, can be be F9, F10, F11, F12, whatever. The BIOS screen should tell you what key stroke changes the order. He's an image from a Virtual Machine. It says ESC for Boot menu. You need the boot menu.
sshot117.png

When you have it, select the DVD drive to boot from.Here's an example from bleeping computers that shows you how to get to the command prompt. This is where you need to be to run a tool that may fix your problem.
http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/tutorials/windows-7-recovery-environment-command-prompt/

When you get to the command prompt, type the following command
chkdsk c: /r

This tool will check your drive for errors. If it's just a few bad sectors preventing your system from loading or if some pointers are broken, then it will fix it. This tool does take some time to finish so check back every 10-15 mins.

Once it's done, reboot the computer and cross your fingers.
 

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